Come Along For A Paddle Trip To One Of The Wild Places - Silver River

Ocala, Florida (82 degrees, cloudy skies)

"If there is magic on this planet, it is contained in water"

Loren Eiseley

Non stop paddling adventures have been a part of our fun agenda while staying in central Florida. The Silver River was our last trip down the crystal fresh waters of this area. There is a new launch here now since the Silver Springs State Park took over the outdated amusement park. It's soooo much easier to launch from here. (cost $4/person)

Last time we had to portage our kayaks down a 1/2 mile trail. It wasn't pretty. By the time we got to the river we were exhausted. You can now drop off your kayaks and take your car to Ray's Wayside Park. The park offers a shuttle back to the launch for $10 (9 a.m and 1 p.m) and then you can drift downstream for seven miles back to your car.  We were not aware of this option so we paddled downstream two miles and came back to the same area upstream.  

When you first start off it takes you through a densely forested area. At times it was hard to tell where the forest and water met. So, sit back and paddle along with us. It's a gem! This is one of the true wild places...no cars...no houses...just lush beauty.  

We counted 80 turtles during our paddle.  This one was huge!

There are lots of alligators on this river. They are not interested in us but this sighting was amusing. Meet Mr. Alligator - note what appears to be a smile

Check out all the turtles along the bank sunning themselves in the warm sunshine

We watched for awhile. I wonder how it all worked out for the alligator????

Pretty Wood Duck

Monkeys, yes monkeys are a common sight on this river.  Supposedly they were released by a Jungle Cruise tour boat operator in the 1930's. Check out this link to a blog written about them.

If you don't like to kayak there is a glass bottom boat tour which is very poplar. 

One of the springs

With reluctance we headed back to the launch. It was another enjoyable day on the river.