Horsin’ Around on Florida’s Trails
Once upon a time, horses were the mode of transportation
for royalty, ruffians and just regular folk. They
carried their riders, or drivers, down miles upon miles
of Florida’s dusty roads, under canopied live oaks and
along winding trails bordered by thick forests. Today,
although no longer a main source of transportation,
Florida’s horses afford their riders even more
opportunities than their forefathers and foremothers had
when it comes to hitting the trails.
Hundreds of miles of adventure can be found on Florida’s
greenways and trails and within Florida’s state parks.
More than just a recreational escapade, the trails offer
exquisite panoramas for an equestrian’s eye -- from the
pine scrub trails winding through Jonathan Dickinson
State Park -- to the unmatchable topography along the
Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway -- to the
trails bordering the world’s largest freshwater spring
in Wakulla Springs State Park.
All told, Florida’s state parks offer 155 miles of
riding pleasure, while an additional 352 miles of
adventure are accessible by journeying the scenic
greenways and trails managed by DEP’s Office of
Greenways & Trails. Florida’s horse trails accommodate
both the beginning rider or the “been riding all my
life” type, regardless of whether English, Western or
riding bareback is your preference. And whether out for
an afternoon or camping overnight under the stars,
riding one of Florida’s many trails is an experience
that will be treasured long after the ride is over.
To celebrate one of Florida’s many equestrian outlets,
the Friends of Dunns Creek State Park are hosting the
semi-annual
Open House and Trail Ride. But it’s not just for
horse lovers, it will be a day filled with music, food
and fun. The morning begins with an early morning hike
on the trail through the park’s beautiful and woodsy
terrain.
Later, those with a yearning for knowledge can learn
firsthand about the park’s history on a guided tour led
by one of the park’s rangers. Discover how the 23
natural communities, including longleaf pines and
wiregrass, provide a rich environment for the native
animal and plant species, such as gopher tortoises, fox
squirrels and the curious carnivorous pitcher-plant. Or
take a boat ride and relax as you drift along
picturesque Dunns Creek.
Proof of negative Coggins is required by participants in
the trail ride. There is a $10.00 donation per horse for
the ride. Visit
www.floridastateparks.org and
www.dep.state.fl.us/gwt/ to learn more about riding
and camping possibilities in Florida’s magnificent state
parks and greenways.
