South Carolina’s most famous tree – called the Angel Oak – is located just outside of Charleston and it receives hundreds (sometimes thousands!) of visitors each day. Angel Oak is thought to be anywhere from 300-400 years old. But there’s an ancient forest in the midlands with trees that are more than 500 years old. And a walk through this magical forest is like walking through a storybook.
Congaree National Park was designated a National Park only 15 years ago, in 2003. And wow... is it spectacular!
The trees are the tallest in the Eastern U.S. and you may find yourself looking UP as much as anywhere else. The tree shown here is called The General Greene Tree. It's the largest Bald Cypress in the park.
It's estimated to be 1000 years old. Just look at how large it is at the base! Several people have linked their fully extended arms around the tree's trunk.
A hike through the forest at Congaree National Park can lead to a number of champion trees. In fact, the park has the world's tallest known examples of 15 species. Several of them are more than 150 feet tall. (That's comparable to a 15-story building.)
There are nine marked trails on which to wander in awe of this ancient forest, for a total of 44 miles. The largest tract of old growth bottom land hardwood forest in the world has quite a bit to admire.
Although the forest is commonly referred to as a swamp, it's not all soggy. But it is located along two rivers that often flood during crazy weather patterns that sweep over the Palmetto State.
Congaree National Park is open 24 hours a day and offers hiking, canoeing, kayaking, camping (primitive and backcountry), and general opportunities to gawk at some of the largest and oldest trees in America. The park is open 365 days a year; however, the visitor’s center is closed on national holidays. Admission is free. Learn more on the official website for the National Park Service.
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