14.5 Mile Florida Trail Hike - Three Lakes WMA

Two of us did this hike in 6 1/4 hours.

The first 3.5 miles of this hike was like a walk in the park. The next 3.5 miles very difficult as the trail was not maintained and mostly covered in water. The wire grass made for uneven footing. Leaving this section as we arrived at the Florida Turnpike overpass. As we arrived at the overpass a large rainstorm hit us. The overpass provided us with shelter as we had lunch.

We had light rains three more times during the day.

The trail wound through pine and palmetto with an occasional oak grove.  Throughout the day we saw large swathes of land torn up by the feral hogs. They are truely a pest here in Florda.

This one-way 14.5 mile hike will begin at Jackson Lake Boat Ramp and go north to highway US 441.  This trail  will be Florida prairie land for most of the hike. We may encounter some marshland near the end of the hike.  The hike will cross two highway along the way. The first will be CR 523 (Canoe Creek Rd.) and will go under the Florida Turnpike.

We can expect very little shade on this hike, so, wearing a hat and bringing lots of water is a must. The trail is mostly flat and can be sandy in spots. Comfortable shoes or boots are required. 

This one-way hike will require a car shuttle. Expect to spend 7 hours on the trail.