You’re probably already aware that Florida has many fantastic hiking spots, but there’s one in particular that is fascinating and unique to Florida. Even better, this short hike makes an easy day trip or a quick stop on a Florida road trip.

Florida is famous for sinkholes, but they're usually featured in a pretty negative light, like when they're destroying roads or swallowing up houses. At this park in Gainesville, however, a sinkhole has actually created a lush paradise that's perfect for an afternoon hike.
Flickr/JULIANNA BROWN
This giant funnel-like hole is 500 feet wide and 120 feet deep. The shape of the hole reminded people of a hopper on top of a grinder.
Flickr/Monik Markus
Ancient bones and fossils found deep inside the sinkhole inspired the legend that people were drawn down the massive funnel on their way to meet the devil.
Flickr/anthony rue

Related Stories

8 Natural Wonders Hiding In Plain Sight In Florida — No Hiking Required

8 Natural Wonders Hiding In Plain Sight In Florida — No Hiking Required

 The Hiking Trail Hiding In Florida That Will Transport You To Another World

The Hiking Trail Hiding In Florida That Will Transport You To Another World

 Trails At This Florida State Park Are Closed Because Wild Monkeys Have Taken Over

Trails At This Florida State Park Are Closed Because Wild Monkeys Have Taken Over
If you lived nearby or went to school in Gainesville in the early '70s, you probably remember it as a place where students would hang out and even have parties, which is why it was taken over by the state in 1974.
Flickr/Rain0975
A couple of years later, the impressive winding staircase of over 200 steps and the observation decks were installed to prevent any further erosion caused by visitors.
Flickr/Rain0975
If you visit the park after a heavy rain, it feels like a tropical oasis, with the sun streaming through the trees and waterfalls trickling down the limestone walls.
Flickr/Rough Tough, Real Stuff
If climbing that many stairs seems daunting to you, there is also a short half-mile nature trail around the edge, a serene spot with picnic tables, and an informative visitor center to peruse.
Flickr/Rain0975

The park is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday. It’s located at 4732 Millhopper Road, Gainesville, FL 32653.

Do you love hiking in Florida? Here are 8 more trails you might enjoy.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore Florida