Encompassing over 27,000 acres along the Gulf Coast, Crystal River Preserve State Park is an integral piece of conservation land, protecting environmentally sensitive salt marshes and neighboring woodlands.
A large portion of the preserve is only accessible by boat, though a few trails allow for exploration on foot.
One of three loop trails in the northern part of the preserve, the Eco-Walk Trail showcases a variety of wildlife and offers multiple benches for resting and reflection along the route.
Bench in a shaded spotResources
Disclosure: As authors and affiliates, we receive earnings when you buy through our links. This helps us provide public information on this website.
Overview
Location: Crystal River
Length: 2.3 mile loop
Trailhead: 28.947495, -82.627889
Address: 5990 N Tallahassee Rd, Crystal River
Fees: Free
Restrooms: None
Land manager: Florida State Parks
Phone: 352-228-6028
Open 8 AM to sunset. Dogs are allowed on a leash.
Directions
From the intersection of US 98 and N Citrus Ave in downtown Crystal River, head west on US 98 for 4 miles, turning left at W Curtis Tool Ln. In 0.9 miles, turn right onto N Tallahassee Rd. The entrance to the trailhead is the first left in less than 100 feet.
Hike
At the trailhead, an information kiosk stands next to a box of maps. To begin the loop in a counterclockwise direction, stay to the right immediately after passing the kiosk.
Kiosk and mapsCabbage palms and live oaks border the grassy pathway as it leads into a subtropical jungle.
In a quarter mile, the habitat transitions slightly where sporadic pines rise from thick clusters of shrubs covered in tangles of grapevines and catbriers.
Pines and vinesAs the trail crosses slightly undulating terrain, low areas can hold water depending on the time of year and recent rains.
Shortly after passing a bench, the pathway skirts around the edge of a small pond that is a hospitable home to alligators.
Alligator floating among the pickerelweedsWax myrtles line the trail as it leads through patches of mesic pine flatwoods.
Pickerelweed flourishes in the wetter areas alongside blue flag irises that bloom in the spring with stunning purple and yellow flowers.
Blue flag irisAs the trail approaches the one-mile mark, a bridge flanked by red maple and bay trees crosses over a swampy area before the footpath begins to weave southward.
Passing a stand of sweetgum trees, the path leads into a shaded oak hammock.
Swamp bridgeStately live oaks blanketed with resurrection ferns and Spanish moss extend their branches over the trail, forming a thick canopy over dense clusters of cabbage palms.
Several benches line the corridor, offering spots to rest within this picturesque environment.
Live oak amongst the palmsBeyond the oak hammock, the sun shines brightly on an impressive variety of sweetgum, oak, palms, wax myrtles, and pines.
Turning to the east, the trail becomes soggier while passing along the perimeter of a hardwood swamp.
Mixed habitatSturdy bridges and boardwalks with integrated benches navigate sections of standing water as the trail meanders through a floodplain forest.
Ascending into a pine flatwoods habitat, the pathway gradually becomes less shaded before crossing a small clearing and completing the loop.
BoardwalkTrail Map
Explore More!
Learn more about Crystal River Preserve State Park.
Crystal River Preserve State Park Crystal River Preserve State Park spans 20 miles of the Gulf Coast between Yankeetown and Homosassa, protecting key manatee habitats along estuaries of the Gulf.Video
A virtual walk in the woods on the Crystal River Eco Walk
Nearby Adventures
Churchhouse Hammock Trail Explore a showy coastal hammock within Crystal River Preserve State Park from an easily-accessed pair of loops just north of downtown Crystal River.
Crystal River Archaeological State Park A treasure trove of landforms and artifacts, this pre-Columbian complex of temple and burial mounds provides insight into Florida's ancient civilizations. 
Withlacoochee Gulf Preserve Immerse in the beauty of an expansive coastal estuary at Withlacoochee Gulf Preserve in Yankeetown to take in the panoramic views.
Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park A former roadside attraction at the source of the Homosassa River, this Florida State Park showcases native Florida wildlife.
- Calusa Heritage Trail - November 5, 2026
- Scherer Thaxton Preserve - October 21, 2026
- Little Awesome Preserve - October 19, 2026