Econfina Creek Nature Trail

Flowing for nearly 26 miles over hilly landscapes, Econfina Creek is notable for being a hotspot of spring activity north of Panama City.

Eleven spring groups empty into the river, contributing significant flow. The area around Pitt Spring features several vents, two of which have been developed for easy access.

A surprisingly rugged nature trail connects Pitt, Sylvan, and Williford Springs, providing views of the unique creekside geology.

interpretive sign about karst at recreation area

This walk illustrates karst features

Resources

Resources for exploring the area

North Florida Panhandle Explorers Guide book cover

Hikers Guide to the Sunshine State book cover

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Overview

Location: Youngstown
Length: 2.1 mile linear and loop
Trailhead: 30.432530, -85.546680
Address: 6315 E. Highway 20, Youngstown
Fees: Free
Restrooms: Yes, at the trailhead.
Land manager: Northwest Florida Water Management District
Phone: 850-539-5999

Open 8 AM to sunset. No pets permitted.

Directions

From the intersection of US 231 and SR 20 in Fountain (north of Panama City), head west for 7.1 miles, and the park entrance is on the right immediately after crossing Econfina Creek.

Hike

Beginning at the parking area near Pitt Spring, a tall boardwalk leads past the restrooms towards Econfina Creek.

Following the walkway to the end, a quick detour to the right leads to a view of the creek where tubes can be launched from a dock.

Boardwalk to Econfina Creek

Turn left, continuing along the boardwalk over limestone formations with clear water surrounded by swampy wetlands.

At 0.2 mile, a trailside platform provides a scenic viewpoint over the serene waters at Sylvan Springs.

Clear spring water with rocks underneath

Sylvan Springs

At an intersection with a trail to the Strickland Parking Area continue northward, climbing in elevation as tree cover becomes more scarce.

Many of the trees towards the higher elevations on the trail have odd leaf growth patterns as leaves sprout from wherever they can to provide nourishment.

They are survivors of Hurricane Michael, a category 4-5 storm that dramatically changed the dense canopied forest that once stood on these hills.

Flat path among trees sprouting leaves from trunks

Peculiar foliage

The previously well-shaded forest floor has exploded with vegetation competing with the sudden increase in sunlight.

Redring milkweed and red buckeyes dot the edges of the trail alongside lyreleaf sage, yaupon holly, and Walter’s viburnum.

Red buckeye

Reaching 0.7 mile, the trail begins a loop towards Williford Spring at a junction.

After following a wooden fence alongside a steep slope, the trail descends using a long, steep switchback to the spring basin below.

The elevation change between bluff and creek is 70 feet. Karst features are prominent at the base of the bluff.

Fence along the edge of a trail with a dropoff

Ridge side trail fence before the switchback

The clear run becomes visible through the trees at first. Along the path are giant boulders split apart by tiny streams.

There are deep pits and cracks through the forest, some bowl-shaped sinkholes, and caves you can peer into as the trail circles to the beautiful blue spring head lined with lilies.

A large set of steps leads into the azure waters, providing an opportunity to take a dip in the refreshingly cool waters on a hot day.

aquamarine spring with blue flag iris edging water

Williford Spring

From Williford Spring, the trail takes a gradual climb along the other side of the loop to a high point overlooking the rolling landscapes surrounding Econfina Creek.

Upon completion of the loop, follow the pathway back to the trailhead before crossing the parking area to the swimming area at Pitt Spring.