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Natural Features | Cultural Heritage | Preserve Management | Recreation Ranger-guided ActivitiesTake a walk on the "wild side" and accompany a park ranger on a guided activity and gain a better understanding and appreciation of the magnificent beauty and splendor of Paynes Prairie "...the Real Florida." Reservations required: Call the visitor center (352) 466-4100 between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily for further information. November to April Activities Overnight Backpacking Trip: Wildlife Walk: This adventure onto the prairie basin on the La Chua Trail, a flat-dike-trail, demonstrates why the Preserve is recognized as a National Natural Landmark. See the wetland and Alachua Sink in action, plus observe alligators, 271 species of birds, and dazzling displays of flowers in bloom. The three-mile walk leads to an elevated observation deck (depending on water levels!). Easy 3 mile walk, 3 to 4 hours
Prairie Rim Ramble: Follow in the footsteps of noted naturalist and artist William Bartram on this guided hike of the north rim of Paynes Prairie. The heavily shaded trail rambles around an array of fragile sinkholes with interesting plant diversity. Along the way enjoy wildlife viewing, bird & butterfly watching, sweeping views of the freshwater marsh, and learning about Paynes Prairie's history the prairie has been a center for human activity for over 12,000 years! Moderate 3.5 mile hike, 3 to 4 hours
Gentle Walk and Talk: This gentle walk takes you to the edge of the prairie basin and Alachua Sink, plus areas of the Preserve only accessible with a guide. Challenge yourself to identify birds, butterflies, trees, and wildflowers along the way, or just enjoy a peaceful stroll. This walk is suitable for those who aren't hikers but still want to have an outdoor Paynes Prairie experience. The pace is slow and comfortable and your guide will stop and talk about what is encountered. Also learn Paynes Prairie's significant history, including a tour of the old Camp Ranch bunkhouse, now the North Rim Interpretive Center.
Ranger's Choice Programs: The themes for these Saturday morning hikes, walks, or rides will vary. Topics will include the history of Paynes Prairie, identifying trees, flowers, and plants, birding by sound, canoe/kayak tours of Lake Wauberg, a ride through history on the Gainesville Hawthorne trail, and more! Call the Paynes Prairie Visitor Center for details, 352.466.4100.
Paynes Prairie by BicycleGuided-ride on the Gainesville Hawthorne Trail
Natural Features | Cultural Heritage | Preserve Management | Recreation |
The overnight backpacking trip is a moderately strenuous hike of approximately 6.5 miles over level to slightly rolling terrain. The hike begins midmorning Saturday with a 4.5-mile hike to a primitive campsite on Persimmon Point. Sunday's hike skirts along a 2-mile section of the picturesque north rim of the prairie basin. The trip concludes around noon at the starting point.