Staff Reports
Area residents and visitors are invited to join the celebration of Florida Hiking Trails Month, taking place the entire month of February.
Florida Hiking Trails Month encourages Floridians to take advantage of Florida’s extensive trail system. While the Suwannee River Water Management District (SRWMD) acquires lands for flood control, water quality protection, water supply enhancement, and natural resource conservation, the District also provides public access to more than 70 miles of trails dedicated to hiking. Many of those trails are also open for related activities such as nature study, bird watching, photography, jogging, and backpacking.
The Florida National Scenic Trail is a particular highlight, and in the North Florida region, travels through Big Shoals State Park, Swift Creek Conservation Area, Holton Creek Conservation Area, and many more areas along the Suwannee River.
“North Florida features many unique geographic wonders, including major rivers, first-magnitude springs, and waterfalls, all of which can be found on District lands,” said Hugh Thomas, executive director of the District. “The District provides visitors and residents with the opportunity to experience these natural settings while also preserving them for future generations.”
Due to cooler temperatures, February is an ideal time to hike in North Florida. It is also a good time of year to watch wildlife, specifically birds as several species migrate to Florida for the winter.
District lands are open during daylight hours from one and a half hours before sunrise to one and a half hours after sunset. For a list of trails and additional recreational opportunities on District lands, visit the SRWMD website or call the District at 386-362-1001.
The mission of the Suwannee River Water Management District is to protect and manage water resources using science-based solutions to support natural systems and the needs of the public. The District holds true to the belief of water for nature, water for people. Headquartered in Live Oak, Florida, the District serves 15 surrounding north-central Florida counties.