4.6 miles of interesting walking using the Bluff Trail and Sims Trail as an out-and-back. This is good way to see new-growth forest and old-growth forest in the same hike. The Bluff trail departs the After Hours parking lot and is easy walking to the junction with the Sims Trail. From there, the walking is more like country road travel, all the way down to Cedar Creek. Pick up a free trail map at the Harry Hampton Visitor Center before you start walking. There are many combinations of trails that can be used. You can easily turn the Sims Trail hike into a 'loop' hike by returning on the Weston Lake Loop Trail and Low Boardwalk.<br />
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 Sims Trail impossible. (803) 776-4396 ext. 0 <br />
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
From Interstate 77, Exit 5:<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.
http://www.tripleblaze.com/trail.php?c=3&i=1299