Nature   

Unlike many coastal regions where development crowds the shoreline, Florida’s Big Bend- and especially the Cedar Keys- remains a place where nature still reigns. Here, the “shoreline” is fluid and ever-changing, expanding and retreating with the tides. This low, wet country offers a glimpse into a wilder Florida, where open water and tidal flats create a paddler’s paradise.

Paddling Difficulty: Easy in calm weather; moderate if breezy. We will not paddle if the forecast calls for high winds or inclement weather.

Skill Level: Beginner-friendly.
Meeting Time: 10 a.m. at launch site.
Equipment: Kayaks provided. After registering, please call (386) 497-4214 during the week prior to the trip to discuss equipment needs and confirm your email address for launch site directions.
Duration: Varies with conditions. Lunch not included.

Paddling Withlacoochee River, it is soon clear why it was designated, in 2006 as an "Outstanding Florida Waterway." On this 3 - 3.5 hour paddle, we will pass through habitats ranging from extensive, open marshes loaded with water birds of all sort and deeply shaded river hardwood forests that, in places, form a nearly complete over-canopy.

This wealth of history, archaeology and wild plant and animal lore we discuss on this tour makes it one of our favorites. Please meet at the launch site. The trip lasts appx. 3 - 3.5 hours. This is an easy, out-and-back paddle that ends at the same site from which we launch. The gentle current is easy to paddle against on the upstream portion of the trip. Skill level: Good for beginners and pros alike.

Meeting time (at launch site): Kayaks are provided. After registering for the class, participants should call (386) 497-4214 during the week prior to the trip to discuss any special needs or requests and confirm an email address for launch site directions. Lunch not included in price.

Experience areas of Sholom Park that were not covered at your first Walk and Talk. Explore the Enchanted Forest, Fragrance Trail, Food Forest, and a behind the scenes look at how the park is operated with Managing Director, Robert Colen and Park Manager, Brian DeVane in Part Two of Sholom Park's Walk and Talk. Registered students will meet at the pavilion near the restrooms.

Discover the remarkable story of Silver Springs, one of Florida's most treasured natural landmarks and an essential environmental and economic asset to Marion County. This engaging course explores the springs' fascinating history, unique geology, diverse habitats, and the many plant and animal species that call this ecosystem home. Participants will learn how Silver Springs contributes to conservation education, and regional water health, making it a vital resource for residents and future generations. The course also highlights why protecting the springs is critical to preserving Florida's natural heritage, emphasizing responsible stewardship and sustainable recreation. Various ways to experience and enjoy the park, from glass-bottom boat tours to hiking, paddling, and wildlife viewing, will be described and illustrated, encouraging participants to connect more deeply with this iconic natural wonder.

In 1774, naturalist William Bartram called it the Great Alachua Savanna. Today, we know it as Paynes Prairie, which is a vast wetland rich in history and wildlife. In this chapter of our Bartram’s Florida series, we’ll take a leisurely three-mile stroll into the landscape that captivated the young explorer. Along the way, Lars Andersen, author of Paynes Prairie: A History and Guide, will share the prairie’s fascinating story, from its early days to the present.

Details:

• Meeting Time: 10 a.m. at the park entrance
• Park Fee: $5, payable at entrance on the day of the trip
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours
• Difficulty: Easy, mostly flat terrain. Out-and-back route; participants may turn back at any time
• Skill Level: Beginner-friendly

   

Glide along 3.5 miles of the upper Ichetucknee River, one of North Florida's most breathtaking waterways. As you paddle downstream, you’ll discover striking limestone outcroppings, seven named springs, and fascinating geological features. Along the way, hear stories from the river’s rich past—waters that for over 14,000 years have sustained Native Americans, Spanish missionaries, and even DeSoto’s conquistadors.

Details: Meet at the launch site at 10 a.m. $5 Park Fee. Duration: about 2 hours. Easy downstream paddle, perfect for beginners.

Explore the Withlacoochee and Rainbow Rivers near Dunnellon for a unique glimpse of "Old Florida" and its more modern landscapes. This two-part course begins with a classroom session focused on identifying the birds commonly found in this region of Florida. By the end, you'll be confident in recognizing many of them, from wading birds to raptors and many songbirds.
The second session features a guided three-hour boat ride with an experienced riverboat captain. We'll travel about one mile along the Rainbow River and explore as much of the Withlacoochee as time allows. Expect up-close views of magnificent birds and excellent photo opportunities. Make sure to bring your camera or binoculars!
After the trip, those interested can join for an optional lunch at a nearby riverside café to share observations and compile a bird list from the morning's adventure.
Second class date field trip directions (8:30am):
Meeting at 20750 River Dr, Dunnellon, FL 34431
- Drive east down 484 to Dunnellon
- Drive 12 miles, then turn left at the light on 41
- Park in the Municipal lot in front of City Hall
- The boat sails from the Public Boat Ramp

 

This gentle-paced paddle is perfect for curious explorers who value learning over speed. Unlike our other paddle tours, this outing covers just a couple of miles, giving us plenty of time to drift, observe, and delve into the river’s rich tapestry of plants, animals, archaeology, history, and other fascinating wild lore.

If you prefer to cover more distance and focus less on in-depth discovery, you may want to explore one of the other paddle courses in this catalog. This is an easy paddle, moving downstream before returning against a light current—ideal for beginners.

Details:

• Park Fee: $6, payable the day of the class
• Duration: Approx. 2.5 hours
• Meeting Time: 10 a.m. at the launch site
• Kayaks Provided
• After registering, please call (386) 497-4214 during the week before the trip to discuss special needs or requests and to confirm your email address for launch site directions.
• Lunch not included.