South Canal Road

Trail Overview

The South Canal Road is a dirt road through the north part of the Steinhatchee Springs in the Suwannee River WMD. The trail connects US Highway 51 on the west end and County Road 357 on the east end of the trail and gives you access to several hiking trails, ponds, and primitive boat ramps along the Steinhatchee River. The road conditions are a mixture of packed sand, loose sand, and some deep holes that can turn into 2-foot deep mud holes after rainy days. The road is always wide enough for two vehicles to pass. 4WD and high clearance are recommended. All vehicles must be street legal. Motorized vehicles may be operated only on named or numbered roads. The use of tracked vehicles, airboats, motorcycles, or all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) is prohibited. Steinhatchee Springs Wildlife Management Area spans over 20,000 acres of floodplain forest, cypress swamps, xeric hammocks, and pine plantations surrounding the Steinhatchee River in Lafayette, Dixie, and Taylor counties. The 28-mile-long river originates in the upper reaches of Mallory Swamp in Lafayette County and discharges to the Gulf. The river goes underground north of Tennille and rises again about a half mile south.

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Difficulty

This is an easy, non-technical trail unless after heavy rain. Be aware that you're driving through a swamp area. The road conditions can change quickly.

History

District lands have limited access due to their swampy nature and lack of roads into their interiors. Entrances and river access points are open for fishing and nature study every day and are located off US Highway 51 and the graded roads adjacent to the river. Look for the brown public river access signs to direct you.

Technical Rating

South Canal Road can be accessed by the following ride types:

• High-Clearance 4x4
• SUV