The Panoramic View

At the 1 mile mark, you reach a bench. In the distance, you can see an observation tower rising over the forest understory. When you reach a T intersection at 1.1 mile, the observation tower is off to your right. Walk over and climb up. It’s a steep ascent, the railings old and splintery, so take care on how you place your hands. At top, you face a grassy clearing carved out of the forest to attract deer. Turn around for a panoramic view of the pine flatwoods, with the trail leading off into the distance. Be especially careful descending the steep stairs.

Keep to the right, following the blue blazes. You’ll pass a trail coming in from the right, then walk down a corridor of slender pines into the camping area and past the bathhouse, across the jeep road and under the power lines. Keep alert, as the trail makes a right turn into the forest. Walking back through a different part of pine flatwoods, you emerge on Pavilion Road; turn left to return to the parking area.