In the Apalachicola National Forest, the Apalachee Savannas Scenic Byway is a winding stretch of scenic road through expansive wet flatwoods and open pine savannas
Visiting the Apalachicola National Forest
The Apalachicola National Forest is the largest National Forest in Florida, sweeping around the southern edge of Tallahassee. Botanical beauty and wilderness draw hikers and other outdoor enthusiasts to its extensive trail systems and campgrounds.
Bear bagging a must in Florida’s National Forests
A federal order has been signed requiring the use of bear bags or bear canisters when backpacking the Florida Trail through the Ocala, Osceola, and Apalachicola National Forests.
Blountstown
A small town along the Apalachicola River, Blountstown got its start as a riverboat destination. It is the seat of Calhoun County and sits upriver from where the Chipola River meets the Apalachicola River at Dead Lakes.
Camel Lake Loop
Circle a cypress lined pond in the Apalachicola National Forest at Camel Lake Recreation Area on the Camel Lake Loop, enjoying scenic views and a walk through the pine forest
Do Not Feed the Bears
Bear bagging is the art of hanging your food properly out of reach of bears. If you’re a Florida backpacker and haven’t learned how, here’s a short course. Securing your food from bears is required in the Ocala, Osceola, and Apalachicola National Forests.
Florida Trail for Scouting
There are many opportunities for Boy Scouts to complete hiking and backpacking merit badges and 50-miler awards along the Florida Trail; this list will start you planning your next trip.
Florida Trail, Bradwell Bay
12.3 miles. You’re guaranteed to get wet on Florida’s roughest, wildest day hike. Situated south of Tallahassee, the Bradwell Bay Wilderness is one of the most majestic and wild places in Northwest Florida.
Florida Trail, Bradwell West to Porter Lake
6.8 miles. A connective piece of the Florida Trail centered on the Langston House trailhead, this stretch of trail marries wet flatwoods with roadwalking as it crosses the Ochlockonee River.
Florida Trail, Bristol Roadwalk
11 miles. One of the narrowest high-speed highways that the Florida Trail follows, CR 12 into Bristol connects the Apalachicola National Forest with the Apalachicola River.
Florida Trail, Camel Lake to Savannah
5.3 miles. Wet feet are expected on this traverse of the pine savannas along the edges of Johnson Juniper Swamp in the Apalachicola National Forest, where careful inspection along the Florida Trail yields a bounty of carnivorous plants.