Hikes by Place 
Ocala National Forest
Ocala National Forest
Florida Trail, Hopkins Prairie to Juniper Springs
Long referred to as the “jewel of the Florida Trail,” Juniper Prairie Wilderness in the Ocala National Forest is a complex mosaic of ancient scrub forests, pine islands, and broad, open prairies where wildlife thrives.
The heart of the world’s largest sand pine scrub is also one of the state’s most flammable habitats, and, unfortunately, went up in flames again in February 2009, with a fire that lasted several weeks and destroyed more than 10,000 acres of forest. I was fortunate to make my last visit to this trail segment two weeks before the fire, so my descriptions will differ a little from what you see today. Hikers who have returned to this section report it passable, if not much more open than it was prior to the fire. Hidden Pond remains a favorite getaway for backpackers to the Ocala National Forest, and should not be missed, although – like this section of trail – it tends to be busy on weekends. Come out on a weekday and have the forest to yourself.Guidebooks
The Florida Trail: The Official Hiking Guide
Florida Trail Companion Guide for Long Distance Hikers
Along the Florida Trail
Hiker's Guide to the Sunshine State
The Hiking Trails of Florida's National Forests, Parks, and Preserves
Hiking Florida
Orlando & Central Florida: An Explorer's Guide
Directions
Directions & LocationHopkins Prairie Trailhead: From the intersection of SR 19 and SR 40 in the Ocala National Forest, head north along SR 19 for 9.2 miles, passing the entrances to Silver Glen Springs and the Yearling Trail as well as the sign for Pat’s Island. Make a sharp left onto a forest road where you see the Hopkins Prairie sign. Turn left and follow this dirt road for about 2 miles. Turn right at the next Hopkins Prairie sign and continue a half mile to the parking area; you’ll cross the trail en route.
Juniper Springs Recreation Area: Follow SR 40 east from Silver Springs for 22 miles into the Ocala National Forest to the Juniper Springs Recreation Area entrance on the left. A trailhead with free parking is slated to be built at the entrance to Juniper Springs, but for now, it’s still necessary to pay the entrance fee ($4 per person), drive into the recreation area, and walk back out the entrance road to the trail crossing.
Overview
OverviewLocation: Ocala National Forest
Length: 10.5 miles
Lat-Long: 29.276587, -81.687867 (Hopkins), 29.180100, -81.712900 (Juniper)
Type: linear
Fees / Permits: parking fee at Juniper Springs
Good for: backpacking, birding, camping, birding, dogs
Difficulty: 3 of 5
Bug factor: 2 of 5
Restroom: At Juniper Springs
Potable water is available at Juniper Springs. The trail crosses two small creeks that feed Juniper Run, and passes many prairie ponds where you can easily filter water. During hunting season, camping is permitted only at the Juniper Springs Campground (fee), Hopkins Prairie Campground (fee), and Hidden Pond.
For more information: Florida Trail Association
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