Our Visit to Florida's Nature Coast

We left St. Augustine and drove across the state to Florida's "Nature Coast." The Nature Coast State Trail is officially designated as part of Florida’s Statewide System of Greenways and Trails. It comprises the inside curve or Big Bend area of the western coast of the state. It is an area know for its natural springs and waterways so it is a popular place to canoe and kayak.

We are staying with some friends of good friends of ours. Holly and Leland have graciously opened up their VRBO they are renting for the month and are showing us the area.

Holly and Leland are big adventurers and have traveled all over the world. In addition to skiing and biking, they love to kayak. So they took us to the Chassahowitzka Recreation area.

The Chassahowitzka River’s headwaters, several tributaries and springs are known locally for their great sportfishing and crabbing. The salt marsh, hardwood swamps, crystal-clear springs and river are a canoeing and kayaking paradise.

 We saw lots of birds.

 Leland in his kayak.

Okay — one of the "scary things" we did was kayak into this area to see a spring. We reached a point where we couldn't kayak any further, (as the water was too shallow) so we got out of our kayaks and walked to the springs. As we were walking, several people coming out from the springs said "watch out for the water moccasins" in the water.

After we got to to springs and took some photos, there was an actual water moccasin we passed. I was so relieved to get back into the kayaks!!

Back at the VRBO, Holly and Greg relaxing on the deck overlooking the river.

It's been a great day!