Longleaf Pine Preserve includes several natural communities, including mesic and wet flatwoods, cypress strands, cypress domes and scrub.

The preserve, which covers 12,005 acres, has two long marked trails and I did the red trail.

  • The red trail is a six-mile loop that begins and ends at the west entrance of the preserve. Along this trail, you may see mesic flatwoods, which are characterized by longleaf pine and slash pine and an understory dominated by saw palmetto and wiregrass. Cypress domes may be recognized throughout the site by the dome-like appearance of their pond cypress tree line. Cypress strands – elongated areas of cypress tree communities – also can be seen in the distance.

Portions of the trail are subject to flooding – some areas possibly more than two feet ( fortunately I was able to bushwhack around the deeper water). Although use of the trail when flooded may not be for everyone, traversing this natural site under wet conditions provides an opportunity to observe and experience the character of Florida’s vital wet habitats. (Ha Ha)

Wildlife along the trails may include sandhill crane, great blue heron, river otter, bobcat, coyote, fox, deer, black bear and alligator – didn’t see much but a fine walk in the woods and water. Beware the trail skirts private property and the owners are none to friendly.