Florida

Alachua County

Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Trail

Rich in human and natural history

Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park is a Florida treasure, rich in human and natural history. During his Florida travels, the noted 18th century artist and naturalist, William Bartram, wrote of this area, calling it the "great Alachua Savannah." Long before Bartram visited, the prairie was home to its first known inhabitants, the Paleo-Indians who arrived here around 10,000 B.C. Over the years, many groups have occupied the land from Archaic and Timucuan Indians, to the Spanish and English prior to Florida's statehood. 

Within this national natural landmark, twenty distinct biological communities such as wet prairie, pine flatwoods, hammocks, and ponds provide a rich array of habitats for animal life. The prairie is a prime wildlife viewing area. This park offers opportunities for hikers, bikers and equestrians to explore its natural and historical wonders Cone's Dike Trail is suitable for hikers and bikers, while Chacala Trail is suitable for equestrians, hikers and bikers

Length: 2.5 miles

Difficulty: 2