Early in September, we knocked another state forest trail off of our list at Welaka State Forest. Located Northeast of us, it is a beautiful drive out that way. We have driven in that general area for a few other state parks or forests. This year we haven't hiked many State Forest. For one thing, it has remained kind on the hot side for much hiking. For another we have done most of the shorter, State Trailwalker paths in our state forests. I'm limited on how long of a trail that we can do with two three-year-olds along for the hike. Most of the remaining trails are at a distance from us. So I'm having to be a little more strategic in planning those trips.
Once we arrived we noticed a sign up barring the way down the trail, and I thought, oh no, how did I miss this on the website. Turns out they were doing routine cleaning around the spring. Mud Spring flows out into a nearby lake, and sometimes the mud gets clogged up, so every so often they bring out equipment to keep it clear and flowing. Luckily for us, they had finished up and according to the rangers office were able to pull down the sawhorses blogging the parking lot. So after a 15 to 20 minute delay we were able to start our hike.
The Mud Spring Trail is picturesque with giant oaks and over hanging branches. The trail curves and turns just enough to keep a mystery about what is ahead. There is very little elevation and only a short portion of the trail has many exposed roots. It really is a very nice trail. Additionally at the half way point of the loop you come to Mud Spring. There is a short staircase going down into the water where you can swim and wade in the water. The girls decided it was cool enough that day that they didn't want to get into the cool water. It's a nice spot though, because while small, the spring has a small bathroom nearby and some benches and a pavilion with picnic tables. There is also a dock out into the small lake that the spring flows into. We saw a few other visitors but mostly had the trail and spring to ourselves.
This would definitely be a trail worth hiking again in various seasons to see the changes in the trees and spring. If you'd like to make a trip to Welaka State Forest the address to the forest headquarters is 794 Co Rd 309, Welaka, Florida, the Mud Spring Trailhead is practically across the street. They are open from sunrise to sunset, everyday. For more information you can call 386-292-2478. Entrance to the Park is $2 for a car load of up to 6 people over the age of six.
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