Blues Creek Ravine Preserve

SUMMARY

Size: 160 acres
Year conserved: 2002
Partner organization: Florida Communities Trust

ABOUT THIS PRESERVE

Located in a fast developing part of the community, this land contains a large percentage of the floodplain and drainage basin for Blues Creek and its tributaries, which crisscross the site. The ravine features of Blues Creek are steeply incised stream banks that create a dramatic setting and unique seepage slopes.

The site has existed in its current state, with very little human activity onsite, for many decades. There has been no tree harvesting since at least the early 1980s. Within the 160-acres of Blues Creek Ravine there are no site improvements and this habitat is an almost pristine example of a North Florida upland habitat.

Blues Creek Ravine Preserve contains a number of important plant species such as the threatened crane-fly orchid and southern lady fern. The site also provides excellent habitat for several state-listed species. The planned management activities are intended to safeguard the ecological integrity of the site and enhance conditions for maintaining biological diversity of both flora and fauna.

TRAILHEAD ADDRESS

The trailhead is located on NW 69th Avenue in Gainesville, FL and can be accessed by foot or bicycle. There is no parking at the trailhead. Parking is available on the shoulders of NW 71st Street.

The road to the preserve (NW 69th Avenue), says “Private Drive”, but the road is open to the public and you can walk or bike down the road to access the trailhead.

GENERAL RULES & GUIDELINES

• Preserve is open from sunrise to sunset.

• Dogs are welcome as long as they remain on a leash.

• Trails are unpaved and in some places can be muddy, uneven, or wet.

• Drones are not permitted without permission from ACT.

• Motorized vehicles are prohibited.

TRAIL MAP

Click on the map to download the full preserve guide.

Banner photo by Kim Davidson.