I learned about this trail from fellow a biker on the Apopka Loop Trail. I told him how much I enjoy trails with scenic views and he suggested this one. Its views do not disappoint! Plus, I got to learn some Florida history along the way.
I started at Lake Monroe Park. To begin, go out the Lake Monroe parking lot entrance and turn right. The path will curve around the park. It will take you to the sign where you start the Spring to Spring Trail.
This path is paved but it is quite curvy to start. While most of the time it is covered by trees there are some stints where you are completely out in the sun.
The first spring you will hit is Gemini Springs. You cannot swim in this spring, but you can enjoy the grounds. The path from the trail to spring is stunning. A moss-covered driveway with a vintage house and barn at the end. A privately owned farm for years, it was established by John H. Padgett in the 1800s. It was named Gemini Springs by the Gray family. As you get closer, you can either veer to the right or the left. Both sides will have paths that lead you to the spring. There are bike racks to park your bike. Though you can't swim in the spring you can enjoy it in other fashions.
You can look for fish and turtles. The water is very clear and they are easy to spot. I did see people fishing on the other side of the dam. You can take a nice leisurely walk around it. There are plenty of places where you can get really close to the banks. You can also just pop a squat and enjoy the scenery.
Green Springs is the next destination, but you will have to cover some territory to get there. Leaving Gemini Springs you will bike some more tree-covered pathways. Those will eventually turn into paths alongside neighborhoods in downtown DeBary. Once you reach this location, there will be a sign that will point you to a side trail towards DeBary's historic town hall. It will also point you in the direction towards Green Springs. The trail continues along DeBary Avenue. You will have to cross at least one intersection. Keep your eyes out for a sign after about 2 miles. It will veer you off onto a more normal bike trail setting with calmer surroundings. You will get to ride over two sections of a boardwalk bridge. Which was so fun! You will arrive at Green Springs shortly afterward.
You will bike through a narrow entryway, down a small curving path towards the spring. They don't call it Green Springs for no reason. It is literally green!
You can't swim in it, but once upon a time people did. The sulfur that gives the water its unique color was also thought give it healing powers. The Native Americans believed it did, and so did others. Cornelius Taylor built his hotel in 1841, where the spring joined Lake Monroe. Advertising itself to those with illness and ailments, becoming one of Florida's first health spas. Eventually, it became part of steamboat baron Fredrick DeBary's estate. It was a sight to be seen in the 19th century and continues to be one today.
Now the Spring to Spring trail only directly connects these two springs at this time. Eventually, it will also connect to Blue Springs and De Leon Springs. Definitely something to add to our Florida bucket list once it is completed.
I can honestly say this is one of my favorites because I love exploring Florida springs. Although I couldn't swim in them, I enjoyed learning about them and they're part in Florida history.
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