One Of The Best Places To See Fall Foliage Is At This Underrated National Park

Editor's note: Congaree National Park is temporarily closed due to the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene. Please check local reports and forecasts before making travel plans.

South Carolina may not be the first destination that comes to mind when thinking of fall foliage, but this hidden gem offers one of the most serene and colorful displays of the season. While many travelers flock to the northeastern U.S. or the mountain regions for vibrant fall hues, Congaree National Park's floodplain forest transforms into an autumn wonderland that's just as stunning yet often overlooked. 

Located along the Congaree River, this park protects the largest remaining old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the southeastern United States. It's an ecologically rich area, known for towering trees, including champion specimens of bald cypress, loblolly pine, and sweetgum. This biodiversity offers a unique spectacle as the canopy changes colors in a dance of oranges, yellows, and deep reds.

"I love camping here in October and early November because of the changing leaves, campfire-ready weather, and lower humidity," writes travel blogger Natalie Vereen-Davis of Camping Kiddos. Living less than 45 minutes away from the park, she visits year-round, and still, she proclaims that fall is the ideal time to visit the park. Julie at Earth Trekkers says the best time to visit is the fall, as well. "Peak colors occur at the beginning of November," she writes, giving leaf-peepers more time to enjoy the season.

Unlike most of the Northeastern part of the continent, when fall foliage peaks between September and October, Congaree's rich colors reach their height between late October and mid-November. This extended foliage season gives leaf-peepers more flexibility in planning their visit, and avoid fighting to get a reservation at some of the best fall camping spots in the US. Of course, the exact timing varies based on weather conditions so it's best to check local foliage forecasts to determine when the lead colors will be most vibrant. 

Another perk of visiting further South is the milder weather. Fall in South Carolina brings pleasant temperatures ranging from the 60s to 70s, making the park a great location for outdoor autumn activities. The comfortable climate means visitors can explore the park without the sharp chill that's often associated with autumn hikes in northern regions. For families with children and pets, you won't have to worry about runny noses or dog sweaters — which is great because dogs are allowed on the hiking trails at Congaree. 

To fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Congaree's fall season, there are several ways to explore the park. The first is perhaps the best: The Boardwalk Loop Trail. The 2.6-mile elevated boardwalk winds through the heart of the floodplain forest, allowing visitors to walk above the swamp and beneath the vibrant canopy. It's a peaceful, easy stroll where you can pause and take in the colors from multiple vantage points. 

For those seeking a longer hike, the Weston Lake Loop Trail offers a 4.7 mile journey that takes you deeper into the forest. You'll pass by old-growth trees and scenic vistas of the floodplain, with plenty of opportunities to admire the brilliant fall colors. It's a moderate trail, and the diversity of landscapes keeps the hike engaging, especially during peak fall foliage season. 

For a different perspective, paddling through Cedar Creek Canoe Trail is a must. According to travel blogger Samantha Brown, "whether you're a day tripper or want to overnight in the backcountry, exploring Cedar Creek Trail by canoe or kayak is a great way to experience the park. This waterway passes through a primeval forest, which contains some of the tallest trees in eastern North America." In the fall, the towering trees above form a canopy of colors that reflect beautifully on the water's surface. Canoeing or kayaking through the calm waters gives you the chance to see fall foliage in a tranquil, up-close setting, making the Cedar Creek Canoe Trail one of the most scenic rivers in America to experience stunning fall foliage.

Our recommendations are based on a combination of firsthand experiences and reviews from travel bloggers and adventurers who have explored Congaree National Park. We have cross-referenced these insights with trusted travel sources and official government websites to provide the most accurate and enjoyable travel advice.