The Garden Of Eden Trail is located in the Apalachicola Bluffs and Ravines Preserve, not far from Bristol Florida. Run by The Nature Conservancy, this is a lollipop style trail that is nearly unique for the state of Florida. Most of our trails here are across flat lands, but here in this one little area in the northern part of the state, with a backdrop of the Apalachicola River, there is actual elevation! Tennis shoes are out, actual hiking boots are in, and a 3.75 mile trek awaits!
Here’s the basics as far as I’m concerned:
- NEVER GO IN SUMMER. That’s my first rule because when I was introduced to the place a friend dragged me there in June, already in the 90s and humid out, and if the heat didn’t want to kill me then the ideal time of year for flying insects that sting to be breeding and in force was in full effect. So pick Fall, Winter or even early Spring if you must.
- WEAR BOOTS. If you’re a Florida hiker, maybe someone that does the Florida National Scenic Trail a lot, then this is not your normal outing. At the far end of the trail you’ll find yourself standing on the Alum Bluff, 135 feed above the river. To get there you’ll be going up & down on repeat gaining and losing elevation, with sharp ascents and descents. For those of us that get out of state to hike that’s fine, but if you’re used to flat lands and swamps, this will test you.
- MOSQUITO NETTING. See Rule #1. I’ve never gone on a hike since this and not had at least a cheap little mesh head net or something. You shouldn’t need it unless you ignore Rule #1, but I won’t go near the place without this being a thing now any time of year.
All of that aside you’re in for a treat because anywhere The Nature Conservancy has hiking trails, there is something worth the effort. If it isn’t the 135 view over the river you’re treated to, or actual elevation in Florida, maybe it is the gopher tortoises and other reptiles, wildflowers, or other geographic features in this 6430 acres preserve. When you arrive in the parking area you’ll find a guest book that must be signed, and then it is on you to venture down the easy to follow trail. If you’re there you’ll also want to visit nearby Torreya State Park, the other area in Florida that offers a similar elevation experience.
The Garden Of Eden Trail
Garden of Eden Rd
Bristol, FL 32321
