Hikes 
Central Florida Withlacoochee State Forest – Hog Island Nature Trail
Central Florida Withlacoochee State Forest – Hog Island Nature Trail
Withlacoochee State Forest – Hog Island Nature Trail
Written by Sandra Friend
For a dip into the primordial wilderness that envelopes the Withlacoochee River on its northward flow to the Gulf of Mexico, take a short jaunt to Nobleton (Hernando County) for a nature trail that showcases some of the biggest cypresses around.
The trail is entirely in the shade of the floodplain forest - prone to flooding when the river is high - and loops around several sinkholes, including one with this massive cypress in it. It intersects with the orange-blazed Florida Trail in an upland pine forest, a separate 7-plus mile adventure.
Guidebooks
Hiker's Guide to the Sunshine State
Orlando & Central Florida: An Explorer's Guide
Locator
Directions & LocationFrom Nobleton or Bushnell, follow CR 476 to CR 635. A large sign indicates the Withlacoochee State Forest is near. Follow CR 635 into Hog Island Recreation Area. Park at the picnic area on the river. Follow the mustard yellow blazes.
Overview
OverviewLocation: Nobleton
Length: 1.6 mile loop; connects to Florida Trail
Lat-Long: 28.619750, -82.241083
Type: Loop
Fees / Permits: none
Good for: big trees, children, wildlife watching, campground
Difficulty: 2 of 5
Bug factor: 3 of 5
Restroom: Yes
The trail is part of the Hog Island Recreation Area in the Croom Tract of Withlacoochee State Forest, adjacent to the Hog Island Campground.
Map
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Details
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Mileages
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