By studying champion trees, scientists can discern optimum ecological conditions for these species. In the following sections, we will cover these dangers in more detail to prepare you for your next trip to Congaree. Its always best to hike with at least one other person. First, let someone know where youre going and when you expect to be back. Since last summer, the S.C. Department of Natural Resources has received a number of reports about bears in lower Richland County and across the Congaree River in Calhoun County adjacent to the national park. Located in central South Carolina near the state's capital of Columbia, this National Park is home to an incredible range of biodiversity. Colas Restaurant, Mr. Friendlys New Southern, Alodias Cucina Italiana (located outside of Columbia), and Midwood Smokehouse also get very good reviews. Tim and I were not fans of this hike, but Im listing it as a thing to do in Congaree National Park in order to provide some information about it. It depends. 120, North West Entrance We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Pets welcome at $25 per pet. The cost is minimal, a $5.00 . Note: This post contains affiliate links. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Earth Trekkers is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn advertising fees by advertising & linking to Amazon.com. Wise Lake is one of the prettiest spots that we saw in Congaree National Park. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Sweetgum, oak, hickories, common persimmon, and southern magnolia have taken over some of the area that used to be occupied by longleaf pines, and these hardwoods create a closed canopy (instead of open, like longleaf pines). Photo by Miguel Vieira/Flickr. Within Congaree National Park there are 1,220 taxa, including 33 amphibians, 45 reptiles, 71 fish, 191 birds, 37 mammals, 328 terrestrial plants, 512 wetland plants, and three aquatic plants. There are 2 official stamps in Congaree National Park. Are dogs allowed in Acadia National Park? The park is also home to some dangers that hikers and outdoor lovers should be aware of before they venture out.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'hikersdaily_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_1',164,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-hikersdaily_com-medrectangle-4-0'); One of the biggest dangers at Congaree National Park is the terrain. The trails vary between easy short trails, and a couple of longer trails that are over ten miles in a loop. Both are located in the upland pine forests of the park and offer a spectacular wooded setting for those looking for a challenge. Read all of our articles about the United States in our United States Travel Guide. Congaree National Park is a national park located in the state of South Carolina. Dallas is a hidden treasure trove of hiking trails! Fireflies flash to communicate and each flash length is unique to a certain species. The city may not be known for its lush green scenery and vast natural beauty, but that doesnt mean there arent any surprises waiting on your next adventure. There were no signs labeling this access road but the GPS coordinates for the turn off are 334544.7N 803833.7W. You can either pick up the canoe from their office in Columbia, or for an additional fee, have them deliver it right to the canoe launch. Map of Congaree National Park | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. The ten-mile long River Trail leads all the way to the Congaree River, a curling ribbon of placid water that forms the park's more than 25-river-mile long southern border. Those are the Copperhead, Canebrake Rattlesnake (Coastal Plain of the Southeast Timber Rattlesnake), and the Water Moccasin (Cottonmouth). Congaree National Park elevated boardwalk trail. If a bear does attack, fight back with everything you have. The boardwalk trail is an elevated path through the bottomland, where you can see giant tupelos and bald cypress trees standing in the water. By being aware of the animals that live in the park and respecting their space, you can have a safe and enjoyable experience exploring all that Congaree has to offer. The weather is another significant danger at Congaree National Park. The park is alsohome to the tallest tree in the Eastern United States. So it sounds like the flooding can extend later into the season. Its well worth it, as it points out both natural and historical sights along the trail. It has to do with the color order but at the end of the day, it shouldnt matter while in the park, just take a picture and look it up later. You can canoe part or all of this trail. Yes, alligators can be found in Congaree National Park, but they are not common. I expect that Congaree will be in the bottom 75% but I dont have a passionate dislike. After a heavy flooding, the Boardwalk Loop Trail, and other trails on this list, can temporarily close. Of the estimated 30 million acres of bottomland forests that once covered the USA, only 40% remains. Its completely flat and very well marked with trail signs along its entire distance. New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, West Virginia. Bald Cypress knees | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. Distance: 3.2 miles. Pay attention to the trail and watch for any potential hazards. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites. Is It Safe To Go Alone To Congaree National Park? Cherrybark Oak (Quercus pagoda) 162 ft tall, Firefly Festival (only found during the Firefly Festival). . David Martirosian is an avid hiker and nature lover. Congaree National Park hosts a viewing event for this phenomena. Black Bear Pass: The Most Scenic AND Dangerous Road in Colorado 4. Drifting along Cedar Creek in a kayak or canoe is the one of the best things to do in Congaree National Park. Acadia National Park, Maine. Growing up in New York City, he gained an appreciation for getting lost in the wilderness, where he was able to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. These species, however, no longer are found within the park. This trailhead is labeled on our interactive map. In conclusion, Congaree National Park is a safe place to hike and enjoy the outdoors. There are a few key things to remember when hiking Congaree National Park to stay safe and have a great time. Alligators are often found in the waterways of Congaree National Park. Congaree National Park, Hopkins . In both the spring and fall, Congaree gets about 3 inches of rain per month. GETTING HERE: On Google Maps, the trailhead is labeled Fork Swamp Trailhead. It is located on an access road on Highway 601. There are no restaurants in Congaree National Park. Peak Foliage: Early October to Mid-October. It is the remains of an old ferry road that ended at the Congaree River. If youre not careful, you could easily lose your footing and end up injured. White Sands National Park, New Mexico. It turns out they don't just go to pools to drink, splash and frolic they also slip into the water to scrub their faces and ears and rinse themselves clean. The Oakridge Trail is a longer trail (7.1 miles) that passes through hardwood forests with oaks, gums, and poplars. This area is an important focus area for clean air and water, as well as a sanctuary for the diverse plants and animals who live there. We chose to have it delivered. Columbia is 20 miles northwest of Congaree and is the closest major city. Daytime highs were in the high 60s to mid-70s and at night it got down into the 40s. (2023). Cheers, Julie. I have no idea. Though there are plenty others which are far more remote, or with way fewer visitors, Congaree simply fails to garner much attention. Be sure to watch your step and take your time in areas where the footing is uncertain. However, Congaree National Park is a relatively safe place to explore at night. Web Visit website. From these hotels, you can easily walk or Uber to some great restaurants. If you're planning a visit in the spring or summer make sure to wear clothing that protects your skin and apply ample amounts of insect repellent. The closest town is Crescent City, about 60 miles south of the Oregon border. Lots of it. Visitation peaks from March to May. The trailhead is also marked on our interactive map. With Congaree National Park, you need to change your scope of reference. Starting at the Harry Hampton Visitor Center, this all-boardwalk trail makes a loop through some of the best scenery in Congaree National Park. An official website of the United States government. During the summer months, Congaree is hot and humid. Distance: 4.5 miles | Difficulty: Easy | Time: 2 to 3 hours. Congaree National Park protects the oldest old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the southeastern United States. Black Bear Pass: The . The best time to see the fireflies is between 9 pm and 10 pm. Which most parks, we are enjoying these massive sweeping vistas. . There are benches all along the Boardwalk if you need a rest. Some of the critters you might spot along the way include salamanders, woodpeckers, kites . Here is an introduction to the best hiking this national, Read More 12 Best Hikes in Big Bend National ParkContinue, Joshua Tree National Park is a U.S. National Park in southeastern California, east of Los Angeles. Coral snakes have a VERY similar coloration to the kingsnake which is found in the park. Spread over a whopping 26,000 acres of land on the low-lying floodplains of South Carolina, it's a strange and unique place. *15% off Guided Kayak in CNP w/Carolina Outdoor Adventures $105 night 4.97 (513) SUPERHOST Cottage in Hopkins During a visit to Congaree National Park, the number one thing to do is walk the Boardwalk Loop Trail. Outside of the park, Columbia is the best place to stay (and eat). We had a visit planned to the park March 2021, and cancelled it because the boardwalks were flooded. Pinnacles National Park - 275,023. PRO TRAVEL TIP: This park floods on a regular basis. But downed trees and flooding can create difficult conditions. Walk about 20 feet farther and to your right will be a trail leading into the woods. Wet and swampy, the wide floodplain is relatively undeveloped, and at its far end lies Congaree National Park. The spring and fall see temperatures in the 70s. Learn more about available resources. (2023)Continue, Indiana Dunes National Park is located in northwestern Indiana, on the southern shore of Lake Michigan. There is a chance that downed trees can block the creek, forcing you to turn around or pull your kayak/canoe up onto land to carry it around the downed tree. These fire treatments will remove vegetation that competes with the native longleaf pine communities and creates healthy soil conditions. The Harry Hampton Visitor Center is the main hub for the park. Humans have inhabited the area that is now Congaree National Park for at least 10,000 years. Winter is mild and the flooding is frequent. Congaree National Park . Second, the terrain in Congaree National Park can be challenging, with roots and logs crossing the trail in places. We will help you avoid the crowds as well as find the best Congaree hikes, and where to stay. Thank you to theNative Land Digitalfor making the Indigenous territories accessible to all. 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