Experiences & Amenities

Bicycling

Bicycling and inline skating are popular activities on the paved trail, which is mostly rural with several street crossings. A bike shop across the street from the Milton Trailhead rents, repairs and sells bicycles. Bicycle racks are located at both the Milton and Visitor Center trailheads. Trail users of all experience levels and fitness will find this trail offers an easy, pleasant trip out into the countryside.

Helmets are highly recommended for all cyclists and Florida law requires helmets for cyclists age 16 and under.

Birding

Bird-watching is a big draw year-round to Blackwater Heritage Trail State Park. Birding is a fun and inexpensive hobby enjoyed by all family members. All you need is a pair of sharp eyes and a good set of ears and you are on your way to exploring the trail looking for the many varieties of birds that frequent the trail.

A pair of binoculars, sunscreen, water and the proper clothing will make your birding experience even more enjoyable.

Hiking

Hiking is permitted on the entire length of the trail.

Horseback Riding

Mountain Biking

Although the trail is fully paved, trail users enjoy riding fat tire bikes on this multi-use trail.

Picnicking

Bring your lunch and enjoy a meal outdoors. Picnic areas are located at the Milton Trailhead, visitors center and at scenic points along the trail.

Roller Blading

Inline skaters and riders of specialty cycles find this paved, mostly level trail is perfect for long or short excursions along a naturally beautiful, scenic path.

Walking and Running

Bring your friends and family for an excursion along the old rail lines through the city of Milton and into the countryside. The paved, mostly level surface offers an ideal venue for walkers and runners of all fitness levels.

Wildlife Viewing

Accessible Amenities

Blackwater Heritage State Trail is committed to providing a variety of amenities accessible to all of our visitors.

These amenities include:

8.1 miles of paved trail.
Motorized wheelchairs and other personal mobility devices are permitted on the trail.
Picnic facilities with tables and grills.
Water fountains

Service animals are welcome in all areas of Florida State Parks.

If you need an accommodation, please contact the trail ranger at 850-607-5363.

Equestrian Trail

Bring your horse for a leisurely ride through the city of Milton and into the countryside. The Equestrian Trailhead on Munson Highway (County Road 191) provides parking for horse trailers and over-sized vehicles, plus covered picnic benches and potable water, as well as water for horses.

Proof of negative Coggins is required.
Bridges are shared by all trail users.
Equestrian use is prohibited on the Military Heritage Trail.

Interpretive Exhibit

The city of Milton established a "Heritage Plaza" as a visitor destination beside the Milton Trailhead. The plaza features the six flags that have at one time flown over this part of Florida and a plaque with an account of the trail corridor's railroad history.

Additional signage along the trail highlights points of interest and natural resources.

Meetings and Retreats

The trail's visitor center has a meeting room available for rent. Contact the trail office for rental information or reservations at 850-983-5338.

Nature Trail

Parking

Parking is available at the South Trailhead, 6655 Old Highway 90, Milton, FL 32571; the Milton Trailhead, 6715 Elva St., Milton, FL 32571; and the visitor center, 5533 Alabama St., Milton, FL 32571. The Equestrian Trailhead at Munson Highway offers horse trailer parking.

Pets

Well-behaved dogs are allowed on the trail with a maximum six-foot, handheld leash. Owners are requested to walk their dogs near the edge of the trail, for the safety of all trail users.

Picnic Pavilion

Picnic tables are located at the Milton and Munson Highway (Equestrian) trailheads. There are 12 uncovered picnic tables and two barbecue grills in the park area beside the Visitor Center. No reservations are required.

Playground

A playground suitable for ages two to 12 is located at the Visitor Center Trailhead. There are shaded picnic tables nearby where you can relax and watch your children enjoy being outside.

Restroom Facilities

Restrooms are available at the Southern and Milton trailheads and the visitor center. Waterless restroom facilities are located at the six- and eight-mile points of the trail.

Visitor Center

Hours may vary, however a ranger is on duty daily from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Central time.

Please contact the ranger at 850-607-5363 to inquire about reserving the meeting room.

Water Fountain

Wheelchair Accessible

The trail and facilities are wheelchair accessible. Motorized wheelchairs and other personal mobility devices are permitted on the trail. If you need an accommodation, please contact the trail ranger at 850-607-5363.