Communities of the Tallahassee-St. Marks Historic Railroad Trail
Begin your journey at the Capital Circle Trailhead located on the west side of Route 363 (Woodville Highway). The Tallahassee-St. Marks Historic Railroad Trail runs parallel to Route 363 the entire way. Longleaf pine and woodlands of oak, wax myrtle and yaupon holly shade the route, and side trails and other nearby state parks are always ready to be explored.
Near mile marker 9, you’ll find the Wakulla Station Trailhead where water, shelter and restroom amenities are located for your convenience.
Just farther south you can take a 5-mile detour along the paved shoulder of State Road 267 to reach Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park, known for an exhilarating swimming hole fed by a natural spring. If you’d like, you can take a river boat tour down the Wakulla River and enjoy the abundant plants and wildlife – you won’t want to miss seeing the beautiful cypress trees, butterflies, wading birds, and on occasion alligators and manatees.
The guest rooms at the historic Wakulla Springs Lodge offer a pleasing option for an overnight stay.
Approximately 6 miles farther along the trail, you will find the town of St. Marks, a small fishing village with a big history.
Originally settled in 1527 and known as San Marcos de Apalache, the town was captured from the Spanish by Andrew Jackson in 1818; Spain ceded control of Florida soon after. The historical site of San Marcos Apalache Historic State Park, south and west of the trail's terminus, is a good place to learn more about the area’s history. A museum as well as an interpretative trail highlight historical activities dating back to the 1500s. Tucker’s Point, where fresh and salt water merge, is a popular place for fishing.
While in St. Marks, you have many dining options to enjoy. Spend time visiting and return to Tallahassee the same day or you may opt to stay overnight. There are several choices including a campground, hotels, and bed and breakfasts.
St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge (8.5 miles east of town) is another great adventure waiting for you to discover. The refuge has boardwalks, trails and endless opportunities for wildlife viewing, and while you are there check out the historic St. Marks Lighthouse.
While out and about, take time to tour Tallahassee and see what this entertaining city has to offer. Discover the arts by visiting museums, parks, festivals and historic districts.
Visit Railroad Square Art Park for its free First Friday Gallery event the first Friday of every month. Also, every Saturday, March through November, located in one of Tallahassee’s richest historic areas is the fun Downtown Tallahassee Marketplace where you can see what is grown and produced in the area, all while listening to the tunes of local musicians or the words of poets and authors as they read their work.