What better way to ring in the new year than with the opening of Leon County’s newest park. The St. Marks River Headwater Greenway will be officially opened to the public this week free of charge, revealing with it a beautiful recreational space to be enjoyed year-round.
The Leon County Government will be hosting a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the unveiling of the headwater greenway on Wednesday, Jan. 24 at 2 p.m. at 640 Baum Road in Tallahassee, FL. Festivities will include light refreshments, hayrides, and hiking tours led by various nature groups. The weather is expected to be in the 60s so it will be a cool, refreshing day to be outside on the trails. Visitors to the park are advised to bring along comfortable clothes and footwear, water, and a bag for anything else one may need to ensure a safe and enjoyable hike.
The 755-acre greenway will include access to several miles of trails perfect for hiking, running, biking and even horseback riding. The location of the greenway right along almost a mile of the St. Marks River is perfect for exploring the natural wetlands, birdwatching and getting your feet wet wading along the water’s edge. Some of the animal life spotted on the grounds range from the more common fox, raccoon and opossum to the rarer black bear, turkey and deer.
The Sierra Club Big Bend Group is just one group that will be hosting an inaugural hike to explore the new park, which offers a great opportunity for those new to hiking or looking for a more in-depth look at the surrounding nature. Experienced guides will be leading the group, so it promises to be an exploration to remember. You can register to join them here. Even if you are unable to make the opening ceremony, there will be a multitude of other opportunities to wander the St. Marks Headwater Greenway with both groups and volunteer programs hosted throughout the year by independent outfitters and the State Park Department throughout the year.
The opening of the greenway is a big step for the Parks and Recreation Department as well as the residents of the Leon County area. The park along the headwater is a welcome addition to the St. Marks State Park as a piece of land to be preserved for the enjoyment and education of the community for many decades to come. There are already plans in motion for the next phase of the greenway where it will be expanded with additional miles of hiking trails and boardwalks and fitted permanent facilities including a playground and restrooms.
Whether you are looking for adventure by hiking through the floodplain of the unique river ecosystem or to admire local flora and fauna in their natural habitat, the Headwater Greenway has something for everyone. The St. Marks River extends for 36 miles across the county, but the new park has its trail starting at less than 30 minutes away from campus, making it a perfect weekend destination. There are plenty of covered pavilions and picnic tables to sit back and enjoy the day admiring this beautiful natural resource right in Tallahassee’s backyard.