Newcomers to South Carolina may not be aware that the Palmetto State is home to one of the 61 protected National Parks in the U.S. In 2003, the area now known as Congaree National Park was officially named part of the National Park Service. With 26,276 acres that include the largest tract of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the country, one of the most gorgeous boardwalk trails in South Carolina offers enormous trees that are worthy of seeking out. I love exploring the entire state, but this is certainly a personal favorite.

Hiking trails have been carved into the natural flora of this low-lying park and they're all relatively flat, so hiking here allows for an easy stride as you wander the forest in awe of all it offers.

Any visit to Congaree National Park (which is always free admission, by the way) should begin at the Visitor Center where you'll find a small museum, restroom facilities, and 24/7 access to trail maps.

Grab one designated for the 2.4-mile Boardwalk Trail, check the mosquito meter (it's a real thing) for the expected nuisance level and then apply insect repellent as needed before heading out on the fully-accessible boardwalk trail.

This magical woodland adventure includes a look at some of the largest trees in the world, including the tallest among 15 species. Loblolly pines, bald cypress, tupelo trees and more will dazzle your senses with their sheer size.

In the fall, the landscape here gets painted with the rusty hues of autumn; and a spring hike is filled with the joyfully bright greens of new leaves sprouting all around. The boardwalk trail has plenty of benches along the 2.4-mile loop through the forest. Sit a while and enjoy the scenery -- it's one of the best places to view fall foliage in South Carolina!

You can expect the fauna here to be delightfully fun as well -- any time of year. From barn owls to an occasional feral hog, you may be surprised at what you'll encounter at Congaree.

Some will be easily familiar from the creatures found in your own back yard. While others...

...may raise an occasional eyebrow. The nine-banded armadillo has been spotted here, as have snakes. The latter will make you want to stay on the boardwalk!

Have you discovered South Carolina's only national park yet? This South Carolina boardwalk trail is a perfect way to become acquainted with this incredible resource found in the heart of the state.

Congaree National Park in South Carolina is open year-round from dawn to dusk and is always free. For more information on the boardwalk trail, be sure to check out the official website of the National Park Service.

After exploring one of the most wonderful boardwalk trails in South Carolina consider looking for more great places to hike. If you love the outdoors here, there are plenty of places you'll want to check out. And since you'll be planning some seriously fun outdoor adventures, make sure you have the right gear! And consider getting yourself a subscription to AllTrails+ to make sure you have access to offline maps and wrong turn alerts.