Nature Coast State Trail
18020 N.W. Highway 19
Fanning Springs, FL 32693
Phone: (352) 535-5181
Nature Coast State Trail
In the early 1900’s the railroad was replacing the steamship as the freight and passenger carrier of the Nature Coast. Trains hauled crops and timber throughout the Suwannee Valley, making passenger stops in small towns such as Chiefland, Cross City and Trenton. Today you can travel in the shadow of these early trains by retracing their historic route in the Nature Coast State Trail. The 31.7 miles of the Nature Coast Trail connects three counties and five communities.
Nature Coast State Trail is officially designated as part of Florida’s Statewide System of Greenways and Trails. Traversing Florida's beautiful Nature Coast region, this trail provides an excellent opportunity to experience the Sunshine State "off the beaten path." The trail consists of two primary alignments built along abandoned rail lines that intersect at Wilcox Junction, connecting the communities of Cross City, Trenton, Fanning Springs and Chiefland. Among the trail's highlights is a historic train trestle that allows trail goers to cross over the Suwannee River near Old Town. The trail is also close to nearby Fanning Springs State Park and Andrews Wildlife Management Area. Don't miss this trail, a jewel of the Nature Coast region.
Directions:
Chiefland Trailhead:
From Fanning Springs, head south on US 19. Trailhead is located at the Chiefland railroad depot, 2 blocks beyond downtown Chiefland.
Trenton Trailhead:
From Fanning Springs, head east on State Route 26. In Trenton, head north (left) on Main Street (US 129). Proceed about 2 blocks to the
Trenton railroad depot.
From Gainesville:
Head west on State Road 26. In Trenton, head north (right) on Main Street (US 129). Proceed about 2 blocks to the Trenton railroad depot.
Fanning Springs Trailhead:
From Chiefland, head north on US 19. In Fanning Springs, the trailhead is on the right, near the Agricultural Inspection Station.
Old Town Trailhead:
From Fanning Springs, head north on US 19. Turn right on CR 349 in Old Town. The trail crosses the road 1 block after the intersection. Adjacent to the Old Town Fire Station.
Cross City Trailhead:
From Old Town, head north on US 19. Pass through Cross City and turn right on NE 210th, turn left on NE 106th St., parking is at the Cross City depot.
|
|
