Explore Ancient Forests On This Enchanting Boardwalk Trail Through South Carolina

One of the most recent additions to the National Parks system, Congaree National Park is also the only of its kind in South Carolina. The park serves as protection for the largest area of old-growth hardwood forest in the U.S. One of the best ways to experience the park is embarking on its famous boardwalk loop trail, a 2.4-mile adventure that will lead you past swamplands, ancient landscapes, and truly breathtaking scenery. Here’s more on this enchanting boardwalk trail:

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Just 15 miles southeast of Columbia, South Carolina awaits an astonishing preserve of old growth hardwood forest that can only be described as otherworldly. The forest that makes up Congaree is significant because it represents some of the only land in the southeast that wasn't subject to logging. It's here that trees have been able to grow to their fullest potential. In fact, the park is home to the tallest examples of 15 different species of trees! For this reason, the trees of Congaree have been deemed the Redwoods of the East.

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Visitors to the park will enjoy a selection of recreational activities, but perhaps the best way to get to know the landscape is by taking the boardwalk loop trail. You'll hike under these giant trees and also past ancient cypress, some of which are at least 500 years old. The boardwalk offers the perfect pathway over the floodplains and rivers.

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Needless to say, you’ll want to bring your camera with you as you enjoy this gorgeous South Carolina landscape. To learn more about how you can plan a trip to Congaree National Park, be sure to visit the official National Park Service website by clicking here.