A Day at Congaree National Park

Congaree National Park - Hopkins, SC December 8, 2012

On December 8, 2012, I finally made up my mind with great determination to visit Congaree National Park in South Carolina. My goal is to go visit all the National Parks and National Monument, and so I have got to start from my own backyard--Congaree National Park, the one and only national park in the state of South Carolina.  This National Park used to be a National Monument.  In November 2003, it gained the National Park status.  I've gotta say, this is a trip worth going.  

Tiger checked in at the visitor's center and got the cancellation stamp! 

Mosquito Meter  located at the visitors center - Fall and Winter should be in the clear.  

Most people consider this National Park is a big swamp.  Technically speaking, Congaree isn't a swamp, because it does not contain standing water all year long.  Congaree is a floodplain forest that floods about ten times a year from the Congaree River.  The land is the largest contiguous tract of old-growth bottomland hardwoods in the United States.  It is considered one of the best preserved old-growth forest.

Once passing the broadwalk, we went to the Oakridge Trail.  This trail is recommended for a day hike.  Big trees coming up!

Taking a break and look! Floodplain!  

To the Oakridge Trail.

I was fascinated by the perfect balance of nature.  

The resilience of nature. 

Need I say more?  Tiger is loving it!  

What a beautiful day in the woods! 

It's slowly becoming an obsession.  They are so unique!  

Cedar Creek.  Next time I will get in a canoe.

The unofficial Tiger baby carrier.  

Watch out for a tiger lurking in a hollow tree stump.

Enjoyed a picnic at Weston Lake.

The beauty of fall colors and the bald cypress. 

Tiger's Final Thought: 

This place has a lot of struggles.  So much work has been done by some many conservationists starting in the 1970s.  At the beginning of this century, the country's lumber industry moved south, threatening the giant hardwood.  Never underestimate the determination of tree hugger.  Without them, we won't be able to enjoy the serenity of the park.   I thank them for their effort to keep this forest alive and well.  So that people and animals get to be away from the city and the hustle bustle world.  It is important to take care of the things that are vulnerable.  It is OUR job to protect nature and take care of it.  Congaree National Park, what a great place to be!

The trip wouldn't count without taking a picture at the entrance! :) I did it!