Congaree

Elevated loop leading down into the old-growth bottomland hardwood forest; the park's signature, accessible walk

Upland loop north of the Visitor Center through young pine forest

Follows an old gravel road from the Bluff Trail to Cedar Creek

Great views of Cedar Creek, where otters and wading birds are regularly seen

Traverses a subtle ridge where a variety of large oak trees grow

Leads to the Congaree River, the lifeblood of the park's natural diversity

A favorite among birders for its diverse vegetation and proximity to Cedar Creek

Follows a 1920s ferry road south to the Congaree River

Connects Longleaf Campground to the Harry Hampton Visitor Center

Runs alongside the southern channel of Bates Old River, an oxbow lake

Site of the park's synchronous firefly light show each spring

Marked route winding through the Congaree Wilderness from Bannister's Bridge to the Congaree River; BYO canoe or kayak, no in-park rentals

Designated National Recreation Trail from downtown Columbia downstream through the park's old-growth floodplain

Columbia-area outfitters (River Runner Outdoor Center, Palmetto Outdoor, J.K. Adventure Guides, Carolina Outdoor Adventures) offer rentals and guided 3-hour tours

Valid South Carolina license required; all state size and creel limits apply. No fishing within 25 ft of the boardwalk, bridges, or overlooks

Hand lines, hook-and-line, fly rods, or casting rods only, closely attended; live bait such as minnows and amphibians is prohibited; inboard/outboard motors are banned