Sometimes the best way to see the natural springs throughout Florida is not by swimming in them, but by hiking around them! The Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park is the newest state park and perhaps one of the most spectacular. Open 365 days from 8 a.m. to sundown, visitors can enter the park and spend the day swimming and hiking through nature. If you’re really looking for an epic hike, then we recommend the Gilchrist Blue Springs Loop, which will take you past all five natural spring pools in the park! Sounds pretty dreamy to us…

Visiting Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park during the warmer months in Florida is something many residents and visitors do in order to enjoy the crystal-clear spring water.
Google Han Munstermann
But if you’re looking to add a little bit of nature into your visit, then we suggest trekking the 1.7-mile Gilchrist Blue Springs Loop.
AllTrails Geferlyn Patricio
This easy jaunt is good for all skill levels, with a very slight if any, elevation change.
AllTrails Andrea Howey
The loop connects all five natural spring pools in the state park, which is pretty spectacular to see.
AllTrails Edwin Garay

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The hike will take you through the natural elements, from the towering trees and the clear blue springs.
AllTrails Trent Smith
Afterward, you can set up shop at the biggest spring and take a dip to cool off or rent kayaks nearby to travel up through the channels.
AllTrails Trent Smith
It’s recommended that if you plan to visit Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park you do so early, especially on weekends, because once capacity is reached, they will start turning visitors away.
AllTrails Edwin Garay
Come hike near the largest of the springs in the state, producing nearly 44 million gallons of water daily when you take the Gilchrist Blue Springs Loop in Florida.
Google Mark Kenney
To find out where this Florida spring hike is and how far it is from you, click here to open the map.
Google Maps

Have you ever hiked the Gilchrist Blue Springs Loop in Florida before? Share with us your experience in the comments section! Or if you’re looking for more information about this state park and the hiking trails, check out the Florida State Park’s website.

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Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park, 7450 NE 60th St, High Springs, FL 32643, USA