I started looking for hikes and trails when all the craziness of the pandemic happened. As a dancer, staying in shape and keeping my stamina up is important. Also, I love being outside! Spending time with mother nature helps me keep my sanity.
One of my favorite trails I have found is right here in Central Florida! Black Bear Wilderness Trail is a 7-mile loop that starts at the trailhead, follows up along the St. John River, and cuts down through the woodlands. At a consistent pace, with time to stop, grab water, and snap some pictures, I finished it about 3 hours.
It is very well marked by blue arrows and white posts that state how many miles you have covered.
This trail is very well covered by trees, but wearing sunscreen is still a good idea. I also recommend wearing bug spray and reapplying during the hike.
You will follow along some small streams and creeks as you walk from the trailhead towards the St. John River.
Keep an eye out for exposed tree roots. No one wants to start a hike with tumble.
Once you approach the St John River you start receiving refreshing wafts of a sea breeze.
As you start the journey up along the river, the trail will widen and narrow, swerve around trees, and have you climbing over rogue tree roots. But that is what makes this trail so much fun!
You will cross over 13 wooden bridges as you make your way up the river. Keep your eyes peeled for alligators and, depending on the time of year, manatees.
And of course, you have sightings of the Florida birds. This one was totally posing for the camera!
While trekking through the woodlands look for a small river. This is where you can spot otters and water snakes. First time I hiked this trail I got to see two otters. They swam up the stream as I walked along it. It was so quiet out there I could hear them nibbling on tree limbs. They were fantastic hiking companions, especially compared to the snake I saw the next time I went.
And a little red robin came down from rockin' it in the treetops to say hello.
There is a place on the woodland trail that comes to a bit of a clearing with a sand path perpendicular to the one you are on. It can look a bit confusing. Cross over it and head straight toward the tree-covered path ahead.
Nearing the end of your hike, you will cross bridge number 14. You will see only little pools of water as you approach civilization.
Though I did not see any, it is called Black Bear Wilderness Trail. Sightings of black bears have occurred.
I have done this hike a few times now. It is a great one to get outdoors and enjoy nature. As a dancer, the cement trails can cause pain in my joints. This trail is composed of dirt and sand which is better for me. The climbing over tree roots and winding of the trail helps work those legs and glutes. Beautiful scenery and a great work out. What more could you want!
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