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Nature's Gym Congaree National Park, right in the middle of Hopkins
Congaree National Park, which opened first as a National Monument in 1976, is a swampland escape in Hopkins, South Carolina with a rich environment of animal and plant life. Although the park is known mainly as the largest area of old growth floodplain forest left in North America, many of the trails at Congaree are becoming a destination for exercise enthusiasts, according to Bob Render, a volunteer at the park. "Runners come here because they are not worried about being run over by an automobile," Render said. Guests may want to stop by the park center before beginning their outdoor adventure. The center has numerous displays detailing the history of Congaree. There are several options about how to explore the park. For a short visit, guests can hike the elevated and low boardwalks, which loop around the visitor center. It takes about 1.2 hours to walk this path.
The Oakridge Trail, King Snake Trail, and River Trail all reflect the elegance of a South Carolina swampland and take longer to walk. Each trail is a major hike with the Oakridge Trail taking up to 3.8 hours to complete. Guided canoe trips down the Congaree are offered every Saturday and Sunday. Reservations are required for this free event. While self- guided canoeing is available, the park only provides canoes for its ranger- guided tours. Congaree provides Owl Prowls each Friday before dusk, which lasts about two hours. Reservations are required.
For more information, call 776-4396 or visit www.nps.gov/cong/index.h tm.
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