In early May I went on a combo boat – hiking trip with fifteen enthusiastic adventurers into the Congaree National Park, about 18 miles southeast of Columbia, the SC state capital.
Congaree River
After traveling up the winding Congaree River from the Bates Bridge Landing we went into the forest to see some amazingly large, and old, trees.
Congaree National Park
Very big trees!
Congaree National Park
Photography in the forest that shows the relative size is hampered by–the forest.
Congaree National Park, Cypress Knees Everywhere
We ate our lunch with a couple of the biggest, including this one.
Congaree National Park, Cypress Knees that were several feet tall
Much of the forest floor was muddy, and slippery. And yes I fell. Holding my camera high
Common Gallinule Chick Wading in PondCommon Gallinule Chick Wading in PondCommon Gallinule Chick Wading in Pond — Check Out My Feet!Common Gallinule Chick Wading in PondCommon Gallinule Chick Wading in Pond
There was an exceptionally high tide that morning, allowing Dolphin to explore beyond their normal range.
Dolphin Pair in Marsh Creek
These Dolphin would have traveled more than ten miles from St. Helena Sound to reach this point. Follow all the twists and turns along the yellow line I’ve drawn:
Path of the Dolphin, Nine miles (14.5 KM) as the crow flies
This spot is a dead end for their travels.
Dolphin Pair in Marsh Creek
The pair swirled around in this pool a few times then disappeared back the way the came.
Dolphin Pair in Marsh Creek
Donnelley Wildlife Management Area, SC
May 15, 2022