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Exploring Marianna
Best known as the location of Florida Caverns State Park, Florida’s only show cave, Marianna is one of the larger communities along Interstate 10 west of the Apalachicola River.
This area is healing after the devastation of Hurricane Michael in October 2018. Its parks and forests will never look quite the same.
But there are many public lands to explore. Paddlers, swimmers, and divers will appreciate the beauty of Jackson Blue Spring (open seasonally) and Merritts Mill Pond.
The underground wonders of Florida Caverns were not affected by hurricane damage, although the park no longer is home to a lush forest.
Florida Caverns State Park
A dip into Florida’s only show cave at Florida Caverns State Park brings on an instant sense of cool.
The Florida Trail passes south of Marianna across the northern extent of Calhoun County, following roadwalks on back roads between Blountstown and Econfina Creek WMA.
Along this very rural segment, the Altha section provides a view of the Look-and-Tremble rapids of the Chipola River when water levels are just right.
Florida Trail, Altha
1.7 miles. Following Bauldree Branch to the bluffs of the Chipola River, the Altha section of the Florida Trail is a fabulous destination for spring wildflowers.
Trails and Parks near Marianna
Articles
Spring Hopping Around Tallahassee
Between Madison and Marianna and across Wakulla County, explore a colorful collection of natural springs for swimming and snorkeling, all within an hour of Tallahassee.
Boulders and blossoms at Florida Caverns
Looking for a compelling wildflower walk? One of Florida’s showiest parades of wildflowers clings to the bluffs at Florida Caverns State Park.