HORSE TRAILS The ONF features multiple trails for horse riders, but the most extensive is the One Hundred Mile Horse Trail. Spanning across numerous lakes and grassy plains, this hundred-mile trail consists of three sections: the 40-mile Flatwoods Trail that loops through sandy paths, enclosed by palmettos; the 40-mile Prairie Trail, a lakeshore path filled with flittering birds, eagerly sharing their songs; and the 20-mile Baptist Lake Trail, a dirt path that leads to the striking views of Baptist Lake (usda.gov). Not only does this trail allow any horse lover quality time with their steed, but it also opens the opportunity for new experiences in the woodlands. Likewise, the riding trails are marked at intervals with painted spots —blazes— on the trees, allowing for safer passage through the scrub and brush of the forest floor. The trail also provides multiple rest stops and campgrounds for riders and horses alike. While the One Hundred Mile Horse Trail is the longest equestrian trail, there are other options. The LAM (Lake/Alachua/Marion) Trail—marked with yellow blazes—begins at the Doe Lake Recreation Area and spans 34 miles of gallop-worthy sights. Reaching northward, this trail passes the Ocklawaha River, toward Eureka. You’ll want to quicken your gait to catch every bit of wildlife found here; from alligators lurking in the springs to tortoises loping along the path— this scrubby route offers a wide range of flora and fauna to fawn over. Whenever you and your four-legged friend grow weary, you can rest at any of the campgrounds dotted along the trail, such as the Swim Pond Equestrian Trailhead, adjacent to the Trout Pond primitive camping area. However, while the trail is free to use, some of the campgrounds, such as the Doe Lake Recreation Area, are available by reservation only. However, before you gallop over, keep in mind that all riders must have proof of a negative Coggins test for their stallion. That said, the beauty of the ONF is that you don’t have to stick to the trails if you don’t want to. You can pull your trailer over to the side of any forest road, as long as you leave room enough for other vehicles to pass. Most equestrians park along forest roads where they intersect with the trails. LET’S GO! OCALAHORSEPROPERTIES.COM | 91
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTIwOA==