We did one last big hike before leaving FL on the Juniper Creek Trail near Milton. It is 7.3 miles point to point with the southern end starting at Blackwater River State Park (entrance fee) and the northern trailhead at Red Rock Rd. We hiked out and back starting just south of the park to add a little extra to the hike and also took a few spurs which is why we ended with 15.5 miles instead of 14.6 miles.

The trail is clearly marked with blue blazes and easy to follow. The trail meanders through various types of vegetation and landscapes making it very picturesque. You walk through floodplain forest, longleaf pine forest, and fields quite often being able to see Juniper creek along side with some sand beaches. Most of the trail is easy hiking as it is hard packed dirt often covered with leaves or pine needles. You do need to watch your step as there are lots of roots criss crossing the path. Occasionally there are sandy patches and some wet areas. Most of the wet areas have a boardwalk of some sort though a few places you do need to step across the logs to keep your feet dry.

About 2/3 of the way along the trail going south to north, we found a nice shelter. This made for a perfect lunch stop spot. A log book was in the shelter for hikers to sign and comment as they passed by. It is always fun to see who else has passed this way before you. And of course, we made sure to sign the book, so if you find yourself on Juniper trail you’ll see us signed in on 3/20/23.

The best site along the way is Red Rock Bluffs near the northern end. Keep an eye out for a well worn path as there is not a sign. The bluffs are red clay bluffs that are eroding away down to the creek. At 65 feet high, the view from the top is breath taking. You can walk down to the bottom by going around the left hand side. They are even more interesting to view this way and if you are careful you can climb some of the hills for great photos. If you want to enjoy the bluffs but aren’t up for a long hike, they can be accessed by a short 5 minute trail from Red Rock Rd near the bridge over Juniper creek. (just west of the Juniper creek trailhead on Red Rock Rd)

Many of the description of this trail mention lots of wildflowers in spring, but we didn’t see very much. We are not sure if we were a little too early, or if it was because we had had a cold spell the few days before. One interesting plant we did find was pitcher plant, including its unusual flower. We did see a little bit of wildlife including Osprey, turtles, and a snake.

Juniper Creek trail is a great trail and was definitely one of our favorites in FL.

Juniper Creek Trail

Off the Rails Part 2

Off the Rails Part 1