Jackson Red Ground Trail

The Jackson Red Ground Trail section of the Florida National Scenic Trail offers a natural-surface pathway where you and your four-footed pal can retrace a historical byway while enjoying the outdoors. This forest road tracks a Native American trade route that early settlers and General Andrew Jackson used for their travels. As you hike, you'll encounter a range of terrain and plant life. Although you can complete the course in a full day, there are two camp shelters along the way.

There's a parking area off Red Rock Road on the western shore of Big Juniper Creek. From here, you can walk about 0.3 miles east to the trailhead. One of the first scenic areas you'll see is the Red Clay Cliffs. Enjoy the beauty of this area with your pooch before continuing through the forest. Other sections of the pathway feature mixed hardwoods, bottomland, wildflowers, and longleaf pine trees. Watch for resident wildlife like fox squirrels, pine warblers, and deer as you hike near the water. 

The state forest service allows your canine companions to come with you if you control them on a leash. Carry water with you and bring bags to pack out any waste. If you're using the trails during hunting season, you'll need to wear an orange vest or shirt. You may also want to make noise to alert any hunters that might be nearby.

The Jackson Red Ground Trail offers a scenic venue where you and your furry pal can take a fun day trip. The roadway is about three feet wide and unpaved. Hike in woods and through bottomland on this historical pathway. The area has abundant wildlife and a variety of plant life for you to enjoy during your travels. If you want to take your time on your trek, you can bring gear to camp at one of the shelters.