Congaree River Blue Trail

The Congaree River Blue Trail is the first water trail designated a National Recreation Trail in South Carolina by the Department of Interior. American Rivers has been instrumental in assuring enhanced stream flows to support boating and habitat for fish and wildlife as part of a new federal licensing for upstream dams.

There is much to explore along the Congaree River. Starting near Columbia, the blue trail offers paddlers an urban adventure experience with opportunities to learn about the history of the area. Continuing downstream, paddlers enter the Coastal Plain known for its countless sandbars, high bluffs, and extensive floodplain habitats.

The highlight of the blue trail is Congaree National Park, a protected wilderness home to the largest continuous tract of old growth bottomland hardwood forest in the U.S. Paddlers and hikers alike can enjoy a 20-mile network of hiking trails within the park as well as camping, fishing, bird watching, and nature study.

The Congaree River Blue Trail connects urban and rural communities and youth to treasured landscapes. Since its beginnings, the trail has helped thousands discover the Congaree River. Local groups like Canoeing for Kids use the blue trail to teach life skills to underprivileged youth paddling on the river.

• Visit the Congaree River Blue Trail online interpretative guide
• Take a tour of the Congaree River Blue Trail
• Download the Congaree River Blue Trail map (Full PDF coming soon)
• Watch a video on the benefits of blue trails.