This cypress-lined Alafia river has an unusual feature for Florida: Rocky shoals that create fun rapids to kayak. It’s near hiking trails, springs and a very nice paddling trail at Little Manatee River State Park.
Tag: kayak
Exploring the St. Johns River: Springs, kayaking, hiking near Welaka
This out-of-the-way rural area on the St. Johns River offers good hiking, kayaking and springs. With Welaka as a base, we explored a place little changed by the years.
Stop at little known Lake Griffin State Park for a famous tree and more
A very old, very big live oak tree inspired me to stop at this park near the Villages in Central Florida, and I found it to be a nice place to picnic, paddle and take a short hike.
Four wild islands in Florida for memorable camping or cabins
Who doesn’t dream of finding a quiet, wild and remote island to pitch a tent or stay in a cabin? If this is the stuff of your dreams, we have four island adventures for you.
Ten Thousand Islands: Sandfly Island is perfect ‘intro’ kayak trail
You can explore the wilderness of the Ten Thousand Islands off Florida’s Gulf Coast with this short kayak trail to an uninhabited island full of history. It’s the perfect “starter” kayak trail for an area full of paddling possibilities.
Paddle New Smyrna waterways for backcountry adventure
The waterways along the Intracoastal in New Smyrna Beach are a terrific place to explore by kayak or SUP. Richard Barrett shares some of his favorite routes — places you might overlook when going to the popular beaches in the area.
Kayak Everglades National Park: The best way to experience it
Kayaks and canoes are one of the best ways to surround yourself in the Everglades. Here’s a guide to the trails in the national park.
Buster Island Loop kayak trail: A challenge in Lake Kissimmee State Park
It’s rare in Florida to find a loop trail for kayaks and this one, with three lakes, two creeks and a canal, is a challenge. The 11-mile trail circles the state park.
More than the Rainbow River; Dunnellon is a good base for exploring
Dunnellon is known for its spectacular Rainbow Springs and River, especially during tubing season. But there are more reasons to visit in cool weather, including another exquisite river– the Withlacoochee — several good restaurants, and trails for both hiking and biking.
36 hours in Key Largo: Gilbert’s Resort and kayaking the wreck at Garden Cove
For a quick trip to the Keys, consider Gilbert’s Resort. The upgraded 1950s-era motel and tiki bar is the first lodging you reach on the road to Key Largo. Then, kayak nearby Garden Cove and discover its picturesque sunken barge, a good place to snorkel.
5 outstanding things to do outdoors in Florida
Five off-the-beaten-track things to do outdoors in the natural Florida in 2020, away from crowds. From rivers to bike trails to great places to camp. What’s on your bucket list?
Frog Creek: Little-known Tampa Bay kayak trail
Frog Creek is a scenic kayak trail near Tampa Bay that begins in a shady Old Florida river and flows into open salt water and mangrove tunnels. “Paddles in Paradise” authors Ed and Deb Higgins share their story.