Interpretive Trail

Boardwalk Loop

(Congaree National Park)

Description: From the Harry Hampton Visitor Center, begin this accessible, easy-to-follow, densely foliated, boardwalk loop. If you follow the fork to the left, you will walk along the elevated boardwalk through diverse, old growth forest. When you reach Weston Lake, you can return to the Visitor Center by returning the way you came, or take the ramp to the low boardwalk that passes through watery swamp amid bald cypress and water tupelo. As you walk through the various flood plain forest habitats, look for pileated woodpeckers, barred owls, osprey, great blue heron, and a variety of other birds, as well as otter, deer, wild-hogs, iridescent skinks, alligators, snakes, and other wildlife.

Remember to wear insect repellent and protective clothing to ward off poison ivy, stinging insects, and mosquitoes. For longer trails, you may want to carry water, first-aid supplies, and a map and compass. The backwoods trails are maintained on a limited scale and may be blocked at any time by fallen trees or debris washed in during flooding. Be sure to check on trail conditions before beginning your hike!

Trails are foot-traffic only. Pets are permitted on leashes on designated trails but they are not allowed on boardwalks. Restrooms and picnic tables are located near the Visitor Center where you can pick up a map, learn from the natural exhibits, and ask about special events such as night tours, and the owl prowl.

Length: 2.4mile loop.

Fees: None.

Directions: From Columbia, drive southeast on SC 48 (Bluff Road) for approximately 12 miles and bear right onto Old Bluff Road (Richland County S-40-734). Follow the signs to the Congaree National Park.

Hours: Dawn to dusk; the monument gates are open 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Camping: There is a small, primitive campground just inside the monument. There are numerous commercial campgrounds in the Columbia Area.

Information: Congaree National Park, 200 Caroline Sims Rd., Hopkins, SC 29061, Telephone: 803-776-4396. (Visitor Center open: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.)