PAYNES PRAIRIE PRESERVE STATE BANK LA CHAU TRAIL

Directions and Hours

From the park’s main entrance on US 441 north of Micanopy, drive north, crossing the  vastness of the prairie to reach Gainesville. At the first traffic light, SR 331, turn right. Keep to  the right and drive 2.2 miles to SE 4th Street. When this road ends after 0.9 mile, keep right  to turn onto SE 15th Street (CR 2043). You’ll pass Bouleware Springs Park just before  coming to a bend in the road. At 1 mile, take the right turn off the bend, and head straight into the park entrance, Camp Ranch Road. This entrance is only open on weekdays. The gate is  locked at 5 PM. On weekends and holidays, park at Bouleware Springs and walk in on the Gainesville-Hawthorne Rail Trail.

Fees

$2 per person  You walk from parking lot to beginning of trail and the payment stand is there,  they do the honor system and you are supposed to hang placard in your car

Trail

Part of the trail is on a concrete path, that turns into a wooden boardwalk that leads to lookout spots.  You then can leave and walk on a natural path.  We walked to the end where  there was another lookout spot. We walked 3 plus miles.  Along the way you will see lots of birds, snakes, alligators, horses.  They are in their natural environment so beware. You will have lots to take pictures of.  You may want to bring water along.

       

Paynes Prairie La Chau Trail

(link to the Florida State Parks information, directions and fees used above)

I am not paid by or affiliated with the Paynes Prairie La Chau Trail Park.
The observations are strictly my own.
The prices and hours were in effect when I was there 04/26/2013