The Saddle Creek Floodplain

Saddle Creek drains these low-lying floodplain forests southward into Lake Hancock, and this trail parallels its route, with some scenic views down into the floodplain. Since sweetgum and maple trees sport orange, gold, and purple leaves in late fall and winter, it’s a great fall foliage walk. The hike starts at the wooden kiosk and follows wooden markers along the berm between the lake and the floodplain, coming up to an observation tower that has aged past its former glory and is now closed. Pass the tower to continue along the trail, which splits in two to form a loop through the forest. Staying on the clockwise side, you’ll see the charred stump of an ancient cypress rising from the floodplain, and if you walk down to it, you’ll be amazed at its size.

At the T intersection, turn right to make the loop back to the tower, or left to continue out to the end of the trail. Unfortunately, non-native invasive species have taken over this forest, from air potato and Brazilian pepper to rosary pea. Serious work is needed to restore the uplands to their former glory. But to the left, the hike continues to follow the bluffs above the impoundments, offering views through the trees across the water, and the opportunity to do a little birdwatching. It ends on a peninsula out into one of the impoundments, and you must retrace your path to return to your car.