02:51
11.4km
10m
Hiking
The Nature Coast State Trail offers a delightful journey through Florida's varied scenery, from dense forests and tranquil hardwood hammocks to open agricultural lands. You'll enjoy a smooth, flat experience on its paved surface, built along an abandoned railroad, with the historic trestle over the Suwannee River near Old Town…
Last updated: June 9, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
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5.27 km
Highlight • Viewpoint
11.4 km
End point
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
11.4 km
Surfaces
10.7 km
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Elevation
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Monday 6 July
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This route was planned by komoot.
The trail features a mostly flat and paved surface, making it an easy and accessible route for various activities. There is also a 4.5-mile unpaved equestrian trail that parallels portions of the paved path between Old Town and Fanning Springs for those seeking a different surface.
The full 32-mile trail can take several hours to complete, depending on your pace and how many stops you make. For the segment described in this tour, which is about 11.3 kilometers (7 miles), it typically takes around 2 hours and 50 minutes to hike.
Yes, the trail is considered easy and accessible, with minimal elevation changes and a paved surface. It's ideal for walkers, runners, bikers, and skaters of all skill levels.
You might spot various local wildlife, including white-tailed deer, gray squirrels, bobcats, gopher tortoises, red-shouldered hawks, pileated woodpeckers, and barred owls, especially in the more forested sections.
A significant scenic highlight is the historic railroad trestle that crosses the Suwannee River near Old Town. You can also visit the Observation Deck Over the Suwannee River. The trail also passes through charming rural towns with historic depots.
Yes, the trail is part of the larger network and also passes through sections of the USBR 15 (Florida).
Yes, dogs are permitted on the trail, but they must be kept on a leash at all times.
As a state trail, there are generally no entrance fees or permits required to access the Nature Coast State Trail itself. However, nearby state parks like Fanning Springs State Park or Manatee Springs State Park may have their own entrance fees.
The cooler, drier months from late fall through early spring (roughly November to April) are generally the most pleasant for hiking in Florida, offering comfortable temperatures and lower humidity.
Trailheads with parking are available in the communities connected by the trail, including Chiefland, Trenton, Fanning Springs, and Cross City. These locations often provide convenient access points.
Yes, restrooms and picnic tables are available at several trailheads along the Nature Coast State Trail, providing convenient stops for visitors.
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