COLUMBIA GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Moonlit Glide: Full‑Moon Paddle on Cedar Creek in Congaree
A guided, two‑hour full‑moon kayak trip on Cedar Creek in Congaree National Park — this guide explains what to expect on the night paddle and what to bring.
Moonlit Glide: Full‑Moon Paddle on Cedar Creek in Congaree.
On a summer night the black water of Cedar Creek becomes a mirror for the moon. The Park after Dark / Full Moon Paddle in Congaree is a guided, two‑hour outing that slips through the floodplain’s quiet channels under moonlight, offering close encounters with nocturnal life and an entirely different sense of scale for the old growth forest.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Cedar Creek’s black‑water channels under moonlight
The paddle follows Cedar Creek, a characteristic black‑water stream threading Congaree National Park; under a full moon the water and canopy read as a single nocturnal landscape.
Nocturnal wildlife viewing
Gliding quietly through the creek at night increases chances to see animals that emerge after dark; the guided format helps you move deliberately and watch for these moments.
Short, focused outings led by a local guide
The operator provides all kayaking equipment and a guide familiar with the area for this roughly two‑hour, full‑moon paddling experience — ideal for a concentrated night adventure.
What the day feels like
What the night feels like
You’ll launch onto Cedar Creek after dusk and ease off into a quiet, moonlit corridor of water. For about two hours the group moves slowly, guided through the black‑water stream while listening and watching for the animals that come alive at night. The trip demands attentiveness and basic night paddling preparation — a headlamp is required — and finishes back at the takeout after the loop.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Duration is approximately 2 hours. Rates: Single kayak $80; Tandem kayak $160.
A headlamp is required. Bring comfortable clothing, bug spray, and water.
All kayaking equipment and a guide familiar with the area are provided as part of the trip.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Full Moon Paddle?
The trip is about two hours long.
Is a headlamp required?
Yes — a headlamp is required for this night paddle.
Are children allowed on the trip?
Children are not allowed on this unique night paddle.
What is included in the trip cost?
All kayaking equipment and a guide familiar with the area are included.
How much does the trip cost?
Single kayaks are $80; tandem kayaks are $160.
Where does the paddle take place?
The paddle takes place on Cedar Creek in Congaree National Park near Columbia, South Carolina.