Hiking & Biking in Point Washington State Forest
Owners and guests are familiar with the white-sand beaches 1.5 miles south. But there is an equally beautiful experience out NatureWalk’s back door to the north, Point Washington State Forest, which covers over 15,000 acres with over 27 miles of designated trails.
Additionally, many forest roads lead to endless possibilities for exploration. The forest is easily accessible at the end of Beargrass Way, or at the back of NatureWalk, off Prairie Pass. Additionally, about a mile north of our neighborhood entrance, on Hwy. 395 is a parking lot for the Eastern Lake Trail System Trailhead.
Hiking / Biking Trails
The Eastern Lake Trail System was the first trail established in Point Washington State Forest. This trail system consists of three double-track loop trails. The hiker or bicyclist can travel the 3.5, 5, or 10-mile loop.
The Eastern Lake, Bike/Hike Trail, is included in the Florida Forest Service’s Trailwalker Hiking Program. The trail system can also be accessed at the parking lot and trailhead on County Road 395.
There is an honor box for a small fee to use the trail, but the NatureWalk HOA covers our trail use fees. Through these woods, deer, wild turkeys, & the occasional turtle can be spotted on walks. Fortunately, NatureWalk hikers & bikers have never spotted a bear in the woods.
There is everything from a leisurely 3.5-mile stroll on the yellow trail to an 11-mile loop of all the trails together on the east side of Hwy. 395, to the 9-mile, one-way Longleaf Trail on the west side of Hwy. 395.
Next time you seek a peaceful, quiet adventure away from the beach, head to Point Washington State Forest!
A full map of the Point Washington State Forest, Eastern Lake Bike/Hike Trail can be downloaded here.
Staying Safe when Hiking / Biking
Hiking and Biking along the various State Forest trails can be fun, but it is essential to consider the following areas before heading out for the day.
- Getting Lost
- Heat & Sunburn
- Insects / Animals
- Swamps
- Thunderstorms
The Florida Trail Association is an excellent resource for hiking and biking in the greater 30A area. You can read more about their recommendations here:
“Hiking in Florida is very different than hiking in most of the United States. Hikers who come here from the Appalachians, Rockies, and Cascades quickly discover that their preconceived notions about Florida hiking are turned upside down. Just because Florida doesn’t have mountains doesn’t mean your hike will be a walk in the park. When hiking, keep in mind the following items for a safe experience on the Florida Trail.“