Silver Springs State Park: Sand Hill Trail

We arrived at Silver Springs State Park, Florida, around noon to check-in to the campground. Now we know check-in time is officially 2 PM are were prepared to wait as not every camper vacates the site promptly or early. Waiting really isn't a problem as there are many interesting areas to explore in most parks, you simply park the rig and walk a trail. Luckily the Sand Hill Trail started within a few hundred yards of the holding area.

Trails are easy to follow
Recent prescribed burn in this area

Bill suggested we take the cats for a hike which is normally a good idea. However, I was amazed the cats wanted to go as we had just left three days at our Citra home where they ran free. Never underestimate cats, they were ready for a new adventure! 

Anna, "OK, let's go"

The trail head was not far away but getting there involved crossing a broad road adjacent to the ranger station, meaning regular traffic, and then walking along the road for 100 yards or so. Neither of these are favorite cat past-times but with a little coaxing they came along without a fuss.

Down the trail
Slipjig in the lead

Now Sand Hill Trail lives up to it's name with plenty of sand, spiney grass, spindley pines, short cabbage palms, scrubby oaks, and similar vegetation. Being an overcast day we were grateful for the lack of vegetation, the weak winter sun just might burn through the grey to warm us. 

Winter Vegetation
Small oak with red leaves
Young Cabbage Palm
Plenty of brown grass

The trail is well marked with Yellow Markers and directional arrows which makes the path easy to follow. No questions as to the direction when you cross another trail or a service road!

You can't miss these 'trails'

We ambled along at cat speed with time to sniff the vegetation and air. The ground showed evidence of a burn in the last year and this fascinated the cats. After a while on the trail begins to drop or ascend depending on your direction of travel, the vegetation changes a bit, and an old sink hole is visible. Not far from this geological discovery the trail intersects the Sink Hole Trail, again all are clearly marked.

"OK, the campsite is ready.
Don't ask, how I know!"
says Slipjig

Cats are pretty smart because after ¾ of a mile they decided it was time to return. Wouldn't you know it, as we opened the truck door the man parking behind us said, “The ranger said your site was ready.” Now, how did they know that?

Campsite #33
Fort King Loop
Silver Springs State Park