Steinhatchee Falls

Just 3.3 miles south of Tennille, FL on the curve, look for the big wooden sign and follow it in.

The Steinhatchee River flows 35 miles from Mallory Swamp in Lafayette County, through Taylor and Dixie counties to the Gulf of Mexico. Just north of the town of Tennille, at the south portion of the Steinhatchee Springs WMA, the river goes underground and re-emerges about a half mile further south. The land area where the river comes back out of the ground is referred to as the Steinhatchee Rise or "River Rise".

The Steinhatchee hiking trail runs south of Tennille along the river for 3.3 miles through oak hammocks, flatwoods and forested areas before ending at Steinhatchee Falls - claimed to be the widest falls in Florida. Even though the falls have a small drop over limestone ledges, they are still very impressive. There are restroom facilities at the trailheads at both ends of the trail. And a kayak/canoe launch is available near the falls.

There are several access points to the Steinhatchee Falls Tract. The north trailhead for the 3-mile Falls hiking trail is along SR51 just south of its intersection with U.S. 19. The multi-use trail winds south along the river to Steinhatchee Falls.

At Steinhatchee Falls, there is a park with a kayak launch, picnic shelter and restroom. Access to this area is via a dirt road along the east side of S.R. 51 about 2 miles south of U.S. 19. From the kayak launch, a shaded trail continues south along the river bank.

HAGEN'S COVE STATE PARK

From hiking trails and observation towers to picnic areas and pavilions, Hagen’s Cove is the ideal destination for all things outdoors. The cove is located off the Gulf of Mexico and is home to shallow waters, grassy flats and a plethora of wildlife. The area’s waters brim with various types of saltwater fish and horseshoe crabs, while birds and the occasional eagle dominate the land and sky.

Hagen’s Cove is a north Florida well-kept secret, and has been frequently visited by former President Jimmy Carter and wife Rosalynn.

road to nowhere

There are four primitive boat launches on this stretch of road. All are in creeks with good access to the Gulf for small boats. Small motorized boats, airboats and paddle craft all find the sand ramps uesable. The Road to Nowhere has some interesting history! Ask a Local about "The Steinhatchee Seven"

High Times and Low Tides at Reefer Beach — THE BITTER SOUTHERNER

The 5 mile segment of State Road 361 dead ends into a marsh near the Gulf of Mexico just north of Horseshoe Beach.