HIKING: River Trail, Congaree National Park

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Description

10 miles of interesting walking that will give you the only access to the Congaree River within the Congaree National Park. Experience the rich biodiversity of hardwood bottomland and witness the long term results of heavy timber cutting that occurred before the park was established and protected.<br />
Visit http://www.nps.gov/cosw/index.htm for details. Call the park directly for current trail conditions before you visit. Every once in a while, the Congaree River floods it's banks, making a hike on most of the River Trail impossible. (803) 776-4396 ext. 0.<br />
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Pick up a free park trail guide at the visitor center before you start walking. There are many combinations of trails that can be enjoyed. The River Trail is both an out-and-back and loop, but using those combinations can give you a more diversified outing.<br />
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Be sure to ask the rangers about the Friends of Congaree Swamp. This is a non-profit organization that helps protect and promote Congaree National Park and it's unique environment. More info here: http://www.friendsofcongaree.org

Directions

From Interstate 77, Exit 5:<br /><br /><br /><br />At Exit 5 turn off onto SC Hwy 48 East (Bluff Road), and travel southeast approximately fourteen miles toward Gadsden and turn right onto Mt. View Road. Follow Mt. View Road for 0.8 miles and then turn right onto Old Bluff Road and travel 0.6 miles. Turn left at the park entrance sign and proceed one mile to the Harry Hampton Visitor Center.