Churchhouse Hammock Boardwalk and Primitive Trails

The Boardwalk Trail is one-third mile in length and begins in a mesic hammock that is being restored to transitional pine flatwoods. Habitat restoration is underway to encourage the return of species such as the longleaf pine, gopher tortoise and fox squirrel. The Primitive Trail is three-fourths of a mile long, looping off the Boardwalk Trail and winding slowly to a sawgrass marsh. Florida's *karst limestone topography can be seen at the surface, showing the unique geology feature that typifies where springs begin. The entrance to the Churchhouse Hammock Boardwalk and Primitive Trail is located across the street from the Crystal River Mall on U.S. Highway 19.

*Karst - An area of irregular limestone in which erosion has produced fissures, sinkholes, underground streams and caverns.