Aucilla Sinks
This is a unique section of the Florida Trail because of the curious fate of the Aucilla River. Emerging from swamps near the state border, the river flows southwestward, passing over the Aucilla Rapids and then disappears underground one half mile north of Goose Pasture Road. For a distance of eight miles, the rivers appears and disappears in a series of “rises” and sinks.” The river continues this pattern until the final rise at Nutall Rise 0.5 mile north of the US 98 bridge. Day hikes along the sinks can start at the trail crossing on Goose Pasture Road. Look for Ft signs near the cattle grate. There are many sinks to follow along this trail.
Location
The east terminus is at a forest road 1.75 miles west of CR 14. The trail crosses CR 14 1.5 south of the Aucilla River Bridge. The west terminus is 0.75 miles west of the US 98 bridge over the Aucilla River, The west end of the sinks is 5.8 miles northeast of the US 98 bridge.
Types of Hiking
The trail leads through limestone sinks in the south portion and along the river berm in the north part. Hiking is dry except when the river is at flood stage (check at the Cabbage Grove Fire Tower for conditions). The general trail direction is northeast to southwest.
Parking
Park at your own risk
Water
There is potable water at Cabbage Grove Fire Tower, three miles south of the CR 14 trial crossing. Water is also available at the dolomite mines trailer on Powell Hammock Road and at Nutall Rise. Boil, filter or treat river and surface water.
Conveniences
Supplies: Lamont
Mail: Lamont 32336
Motels: Perry
Public Campgrounds: Goose Pasture (Wacissa River), primitive, no potable water. Closed during general hunting season.
Assistance
Taylor County Sheriff: 904-584-7017
Florida Division of Forestry: 904-584-6121 (Perry)
Game and Fish Commission: 904-488-6254
Precautions
Plan carefully for this remote section of trail. Carry a map and compass. Flood waters can make this trail hazardous because it runs close to the edges of sinks and along the river berm, High water can obscure boundaries. Use care crossing sloughs (steep sides and loose footing). Check the general hunting season dates, because this region’s hunting regulation boundaries are uncertain. Wear safety orange during general hunting season.
Restrictions
Back country camping is not permitted during general hunting season.
For current advisories and changes to the maps, see the Florida Trail website.