The 30-Minute Tour

Tuesday, 14 August 2012 13:53

While living at the heart of Gator Nation has its perks, sometimes a quick day trip offers a welcome change of pace. Gainesville serves as a great home base to explore the surrounding area, all within 30 minutes of town. Here are some suggestions.

By Jessica Smith

Devil's Den
While North Central Florida has no shortage of underwater caves, the unique beauty of Devil's Den in Williston can be enjoyed without stepping a toe into the water. The scuba park is formed around a spring in a cave, which makes for an interesting trip for non-divers. Swimming is prohibited, but interestingly, snorkelers are welcome. (Open 9am-6pm, Mon-Thurs; 8am-6pm Fri-Sun.)

Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park
Cross Creek may only be a quick drive, but a visit will take you back in time. Home to the beloved author of classics such as The Yearling and Cross Creek, the Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park offers a chance to slow down and get a glimpse of Old Florida. Tours of the home and grounds that comprise the author's former residence are available multiple times a day from October to July, and the grounds are open for visitors all year long. (See www.floridastateparks.org/marjoriekinnanrawlings.)

The Canyons Zip Line & Canopy Tours
Since opening in November 2011, The Canyons Zip Line and Canopy Tours (just north of Ocala) has played host to about 11,000 adventure-seekers. The course consists of nine zip lines, two rope bridges and one area for rappelling—all centered around limestone cliffs of an old quarry. While already holding the record for Florida's longest, fastest and highest zip-line, the Canyons have more fun in store. They are planning stages of adding a "super zip," which gives guests the opportunity to fly through the air like Superman. (Weekends are the busiest time. Go to www.zipthecanyons.com to plan.)

The Ichetucknee River
Who knew we had our own "lazy river" just a short drive away? Ichetucknee Springs State Park, located in Fort White, is the perfect solution for the Florida heat. Open from 8am to just before sunset, both the river and the spring are prime examples of Florida's natural beauty. The most popular activity in the park is tubing, which begins at the midpoint launch. While tubes are not available for rent in the park, there are plenty of options for rentals on the drive there. Canoe and kayak rentals from local concessions are also available, giving nature enthusiasts an opportunity to explore the river in its entirety. (Visit www.floridastateparks.org/ichetuckneesprings.)

The Waldo Flea Market
Easily identified by the giant horse and rocking chair on the roadside, the Waldo Flea Market is hard to miss. With more than 800 rental spaces available, this flea market is the largest in North Central Florida. It has everything from diabetic socks and beauty supplies to ukuleles and yard tools. There's never a charge for parking or entry and pets are welcome everywhere but inside the antique mall. Not looking for anything special? Tag along on a visit if for nothing more than the green boiled peanuts and delicious fresh lemonade! (Visit www.waldofarmersandfleamarket.com.)

Paynes Prairie
If you are looking for a little peace and quiet, Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park might be what you need. Located only a short drive south of Gainesville, the La Chua Trail makes for a good introductory hike and will give you a chance to get personal with alligators. Don't miss out on the visitor's center and the short walk down to the observation tower. Bring your binoculars and keep a sharp eye out for bison, sand hill cranes, wild horses and—of course—alligators. (Visit www.prairiefriends.org.)

Got an Hour's Worth of Gas? 

The Hogwaller
Don't mind getting dirty? Then Palatka's Hogwaller Mudbog might get your motor running. Located on the site of an old logging camp, The Hogwaller spans 750 acres, providing hours of ATV fun. The center point is the mud bog itself, inviting gutsy drivers to test their four wheel drive. The Hogwaller is open two weekends a month and camping is permitted. There is a concession stand on site to keep bellies full and cup holders in use. Don't have a truck or an ATV? No problem. Spectators are always welcome. (See www.hogwallermudbog.com.)

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