Silver River SP March 26, 2009

We would only be at the park two nights, and we decided to rent a cabin rather than pitch a tent! This was the first time that we had stayed in a cabin and the bathroom and kitchen were convenient. Possibly, we'll do this again in the future!

We paddled the river during the morning and early afternoon, and biked the trails during the afternoon and early evening.

The water was crystal clear, and the trees were vibrant with new leaves in bright shades of green.



The water level in the surrounding swamp was down, and the cypress roots formed ribbons, caves, and spirit villages.

Yellow-Crowned Night-Heron

Nesting Cormorants

Flirting with disaster!

Young White Ibis

Red-Bellied Woodpecker

Bike & Ross Allen Trails

Additional Information:

Our paddle started at the state park launch area. The carry is 3/4 of a mile, or canoes can be rented at the state park. Silver Springs is upstream from the launch.


Silver River State Park - http://www.floridastateparks.org/Silverriver/

Silver River SP, February 2009

Spent the day biking the trails at Silver River State Park. Serene and beautiful.

I enjoy meditating upon trees and reflecting upon the wisdom and strength that rests quietly within. Cypress is one of my most favorite trees, very calming and tranquil. If one looks closely, tribal peoples and villages may be found hidden amongst the knees.

Additional Information:

*Silver River State Park - http://www.floridastateparks.org/Silverriver/

Note: Canoe rentals are available at the state park. Canoes/kayaks may be launched at the park, but it requires a 3/4 mile carry. A launch is also available at Ray's Wayside Boat Basin on State Hwy 40 for a nominal fee.

Wekiwa Springs SP January 2008

We camped for three days, and had planned to journey on the river. Due to the rain and cold, we spent the time hiking and cycling. Rain or not, we had a wonderful time!



Pine reflections on Sand Lake.

Horse-like image in burnt tree bark.

Additional Information:

*Wekiwa Springs State Park - http://www.floridastateparks.org/WekiwaSprings/

Circle B Bar Reserve, Lakeland, FL

Located on Lake Hancock, Circle B Reserve encompasses more than 1,200-acres and is a part of the Banana Creek marsh. Six miles of trails take you through a live oak hammock, to wetland marshes, and the shores of Lake Hancock. While cycling the trails we viewed roseate spoonbills, wood storks, sandhill cranes, American white pelicans, great blue heron, egrets, bald eagles, alligators, armadillos, wild hogs, and more. The scenery is awe-inspiring! The park is open daily from 6:30AM to Sunset. The Nature Discovery Center is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9AM to 4PM and Sunday from Noon to 4PM. Restrooms are available in the Center (when open), and two portable toilets are located in the park. The part has excellent picnic areas. When we visited, maps were available and the trails were well marked. Trail maps may also be obtained at http://www.polk-county.net/subpage.aspx?menu_id=52&nav=res&id=6040.

Banana Creek Marsh

Heron Hideout Trail

Marsh Rabbit Run

Wading Bird Way

Windmill Whisper Trail

Lost Bridge Trail

Alligator Alley Trail

Shady Oak Trail