Congaree National Park

Visiting the Congaree National Park on a sunny day after heavy April showers is a treat!

Boardwalks lead you through the old growth bottomland hardwood forest. These floodplains may not be completely walkable as we encountered!

I suppose with the proper footwear, one could venture further. We did spot a water moccasin have the time of its life and who knows what else may be lurking in the water here.

When the water is still and the reflection is just right, this is what it looks like gazing down into the water (that is my reflection at the bottom).

It appears like the forest goes on forever (above, below and as far as we could see) with the reflection even though there is probably only 2 feet of water here. Of course the photos do not do this justice. It is really something to see in person.

I have a fondness for perky saw palmettos. They just look happy.

There are lovely reflections of these cuties too.

Some parts are very grassy.

When the sun hits just right, it is dreamy.

Other stars of the park are the incredibly tall trees.

Waters from the Congaree and Wateree rivers pass through these floodplains. They carry nutrients and sediments to feed the national and state trees that grow here.

Loblolly pine trees grow particularly tall here.

All the upper boardwalks were passable. 

They meander throughout the forest creating a peaceful walk.

If you go, the park is located at:

100 National Park Rd

Hopkins, SC 29061

open 24 hours, free of charge (this walk must be really cool during a full moon!)

Website - It is a good idea to refer to the website before venturing here as there may be trail closures.

 

The park looks quite different during drier times.

Have a marvelous day/evening (wherever you are on the clock)! ~Val

Cypress Wetlands

The Cypress Wetlands is in the middle of the town of Port Royal, South Carolina. This is not the sort of thing you expect to find amongst restaurants, the post office, police station, etc!

Aptly named for its cypress trees.

This is home to many egrets and so much more.

The trees were dotted with white spots although the camera did not pick this up well.

The water is covered with vibrant green algae.

Turtles seem to have a decent life here but maybe not considering some other residents!

This was the closest I have every been to a wild alligator. This dude was just a few feet away hanging around below an overlook.

More than one gator calls this home. 

One must be careful stepping off the pathways! What is life without a little risk to spice it up?

The boardwalk allows visitors to get fairly close to some wildlife.

 There is plenty of Spanish moss to enjoy.

How amazing is this green?!

The walk is quite sunny in parts so sunglasses are must and a hat may be a good idea too.

This beautiful place is located approximately 10 minutes from downtown Beaufort making it an easy side trip.

If you go, the park is open free to the public during daylight hours. Located at the intersection of Paris Ave and Ribaut Ave in Port Royal, SC. Free parking is available on the street.

Have a marvelous day/evening (wherever you are on the clock)! ~Val

Saluda Shoals Park

 Saluda Shoals Park is a 400 acre spot to escape safely into nature.

A paved trail runs the length of the park along the Saluda River. So even if it has been raining, there are no worries of mud! It has been perfect for social distancing too since this park does not get crowded the way the free riverwalks do.

There are overlooks leading to the river. The walkways are well shaded so in the hot, summer months it can be comfortable for a morning walk.

One can relax with a snack, a book or whatever.

Fishing is permitted here so one is likely to see a sportsman or 2 along the river.

Kayaks and canoes are also common to see.

If unpaved nature trails are your thing, the option is here as well.

The park is fantastic for biking and walking the dog.

This gigantic acorn just got a face lift. The twig topper was worn by nature so it was replaced to appear new again.

Fragrant wildflowers fill the olfactory senses. They may also stuff up those senses depending on allergies!

Gigantic thistle makes occasional appearances.

In spring, pretty tulip poplar flower droppings decorate the walkway.

Southern snow can be seen in spring (I believe this is from the Eastern Cottonwood Tree).

Like any great park, there is locally made artwork.

Usable artwork is a bonus.

The park has nature programs for the kids. Art made by the little ones is also on display.

Other pluses to this park include:

• a boat ramp for kayaking and canoeing
• dog park
• picnic shelters
• splash pad for the kids
• playground

If you go, the park is located at:

5605 Bush River Road

Columbia, SC

Open daily:

March thru October 7am - 8pm

November thru February 7am - 5:30pm

Visitor admission is $5 per vehicle. An annual pass is $55.

Park Website

Have a marvelous day/evening (wherever you are on the clock)! ~Val