Do I need a permit or entry fee for the Boardwalk Loop Trail?

No, there is no entry fee for Congaree National Park. You can access the Boardwalk Loop Trail directly from the Harry Hampton Visitor Center, and parking is free.

What is the difficulty level of the Boardwalk Loop Trail?

The Boardwalk Loop Trail is an easy, accessible, and family-friendly hike. The trail is mostly flat and made of a hard boardwalk, making it suitable for all skill levels, including those with limited mobility.

What gear should I bring for the Boardwalk Loop Trail?

The Boardwalk Loop Trail does not require special hiking gear. Comfortable fitness clothing and any type of footwear are fine, as the trail is entirely on a boardwalk. Be sure to bring insect repellant, as mosquitoes can be a concern, especially during certain seasons.

What is the length of the Boardwalk Loop Trail?

The Boardwalk Loop Trail is approximately 2.4 miles long. It’s a loop trail, so you will start and finish at the Visitor Center, making it a relatively short but scenic hike through Congaree National Park.

Is the Boardwalk Loop Trail accessible for people with disabilities?

Yes, the Boardwalk Loop Trail is fully accessible. The trail is constructed of a hard boardwalk, which makes it easy for visitors with mobility challenges to navigate. It's an ideal choice for those looking for an accessible outdoor experience.

Can I bring my dog on the Boardwalk Loop Trail?

Pets are not permitted on the Boardwalk Loop Trail or any other trails within Congaree National Park, except in the campground or on the paved roads. This is to help protect wildlife and preserve the natural environment.

What wildlife can I expect to see on the Boardwalk Loop Trail?

The Boardwalk Loop Trail offers visitors the opportunity to see a variety of wildlife. You might spot birds, including egrets and herons, and river otters around Weston Lake. The park is also home to various amphibians and small mammals, and it provides a great experience for nature lovers.

Are there any trail closures I should be aware of?

The Boardwalk Loop Trail may occasionally be closed due to flooding, especially during heavy rains. Before you go, it’s a good idea to check the Congaree National Park website or stop by the Visitor Center to confirm trail conditions.

What is the best time to hike the Boardwalk Loop Trail?

The best time to hike the Boardwalk Loop Trail is during the cooler months, from late fall to early spring. The summer months can be hot, and the mosquitoes are more active. Sunrise and early morning are great times to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

PLAY VIDEO

Congaree Boardwalk Loop Trail

By Cris Hazzard, Professional Hiking Guide
Updated May 12, 2025

Hike Stats

Total Distance: 2.4 miles
Time: 1-2 Hours
Total Climbing: 30 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Crowds: Moderate
Dogs: Leashed
Gear: What I Use
Weather: Latest Report
Park: Congaree National Park

If you can do only one hike in Congaree National Park, the Boardwalk Loop is the one. Congaree is unique for preserving the largest tract of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the United States, and the Boardwalk trail shows you the best of this remarkable place. The trail is easy, accessible, and family-friendly.

Where is the Boardwalk Loop Trail?

Congaree National Park Location — Congaree National Park is located just 30 minutes from Columbia, SC.

Congaree National Park Boardwalk Loop Parking — The park has several access points, but to do the Boardwalk Loop, start at the Visitor Center.

Use this trailhead address:
Harry Hampton Visitor Center, 100 National Park Rd, Hopkins, SC 29061

There is no entry fee for Congaree National Park. And there's plenty of parking at the Visitor Center lot.

Congaree National Park Boardwalk Loop Visitor 1 — The trailhead is through the Visitor Center building.

Congaree National Park Boardwalk Loop Visitor 2 — When you go through, check the info board before you start. Sometimes the trail is closed because of flooding.

The Visitor Center is worth a visit too!

Gear Recommendations

Screenshot 2023 12 13 At 06.04.48 — Even if the Mosquito Meter is not on "War Zone," you're going to want some sort of insect repellant.

You don't need any special hiking gear for the Boardwalk Loop Trail. The entire hike is on a hard boardwalk; any type of footwear will work. Ideally you'll have comfortable fitness clothing for the hike.

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Garmin inReach Mini 2: Reliable SOS Everywhere on Earth
Sawyer + CNOC Water Filter: Easy & Reliable Safe Water
Nitecore NU25 Headlamp: Running late? Get home safe
Altra Olympus 275: Favorite trail shoes right now, no blisters and very comfy.
AllTrails Plus (30% off): Offline maps on your phone with the Plus level
Full December 2025 Gear List →

Boardwalk Loop Trail Maps

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Boardwalk Loop Hike Directions

Congaree Boardwalk Loop Hike 1 — Star the hike behind the Visitor Center on the boardwalk.

Congaree Boardwalk Loop Hike 2 — At the first wide junction, hike straight through, avoiding the stairs down.

Congaree Boardwalk Loop Hike 3 — You'll see the first interpretive display. There are a number of these along the loop and you can pick up a free brochure at the Visitor Center.

Congaree Boardwalk Loop Hike 4 — At 0.2 miles you'll see the end of the loop rejoining on the left. Go straight. We're hiking the loop counterclockwise.

Congaree Boardwalk Loop Hike 5 — At 0.6 miles continue on the turn in the loop by going left and staying on the boardwalk.

Congaree Boardwalk Loop Hike 6 — Hike straight and cross the Caroline Sims Trail.

Congaree Boardwalk Loop Hike 7 — When you get about halfway through the loop at 1 mile, go up and to the right for the Weston Lake viewpoint.

Congaree Boardwalk Loop Hike 8 — Enjoy the views of Weston Lake, home to many birds and even river otters.

Congaree Boardwalk Loop Hike 9 — Leave the viewpoint and continue straight, avoiding he trail on the left that you came up earlier.

Congaree Boardwalk Loop Hike 10 — Make the left at 1.7 miles to continue on the boardwalk loop.

Congaree Boardwalk Loop Hike 11 — Hike straight through, staying on the boardwalk.

Congaree Boardwalk Loop Hike 12 — Avoid all the smaller trails branching off the boardwalk; we're staying on the boardwalk.

Congaree Boardwalk Loop Hike 13 — At the end of the loop you'll rejoin the trail you started on. Make the right and walk a minute or two to the Visitor Center.