It’s a millennia-old story… flowing water meets soil, flowing water erodes soil, flowing water cuts through the strata of time, and modern day visitors stare in awe and wonder.
Naturally, many would think this post is about Arizona’s Grand Canyon, but it’s not. It is, though, about Florida’s very own Grand Canyon, which is actually a grand ravine. Located in the small town of Palatka, which sits between Gainesville and St. Augustine, is Ravine Gardens State Park. Joe and I recently visited this park on a road trip to north Florida.
Central and northern Florida are known for sinkholes, in which underground water erodes enough limestone that the surface eventually collapses. In the case of ravines, though, spring water makes its way to the surface, bubbling up and causing erosion as the stream makes its way through the landscape. The springs in Ravine Gardens State Park eventually reach the St. Johns River.
Looking toward the obelisk, there’s a place for 48 states and 48 flags. Alaska and Hawaii had not yet been added to the Union at the time fo the park’s opening.
In 1933, at the height of the Great Depression, the ravine received assistance from the WPA (Works Progress Administration). More than 270,000 plants – along with paths, fountains, steps, and the Court of the States with its obelisk dedicated to Franklin D. Roosevelt – were installed to create a formal garden. Five acres of formal gardens still remain, while the rest of the park has since been allowed to return to its natural state.
The ravine is about 100’ deep and has several trails of varying degrees of difficulty surrounding it. The easiest trail is the 1.8-mile Ravine Loop Trail, which is paved and circles the rim of the ravine.
The Springs and Azalea trails are a bit more tricky. They’re about midway down the ravine, and walkers have to be mindful of uneven ground and roots. January thru March is peak blooming time for the azaleas.
One of the last remaining azalea flowers in the park. We were a month too late for peak blooming.
At the bottom of the ravine is the sandy Whitewater Path, which follows the spring.
Paths, stone steps (sometimes a bit uneven), and pedestrian suspension bridges connect the various trails – as do the wildlife and wildflowers.
Spiderwort.
Fleabane.
African Iris.
Can you spot the owl?
After hiking, take some time to visit the town of Palatka itself. Very quickly, we learned that it’s another of Florida’s hidden gems. Wander through the antique shops and small boutiques, and grab a bite to eat at one of the local restaurants.
That’s exactly what we did after stumbling upon Velchoff’s Corner, an indoor/outdoor restaurant where a food truck is the kitchen. We opted to sit on the patio, surrounded by flowering potted plants.
Velchoff’s Corner.
Ravine Gardens State Park opens at 8:30 am until sundown, 365 days a year. Be sure to use the honor box for the $5-per-vehicle entrance fee. Wear comfortable shoes, bring a camera or a sketchbook, and enjoy.
Nitty Gritty Dirt Man 