Around North Florida

Your final day of adventure will take you to the pristine Santa Fe River and nine crystal clear springs, each one a natural wonder. From Ichetucknee Springs, return to U.S. 27 and head east for 6.5 miles to the small community of Fort White. Turn right on State Road 47 and head south for eight miles to County Road 340. Turn left and follow the signs to Ginnie Springs (386-454-7188). Covering more than 200 acres of unspoiled northern Florida forest, Ginnie Springs Resort offers activities such as canoeing, tubing, snorkeling, scuba diving and riverside nature trails. Camping is also available.

How better to conclude your four-day excursion through north Florida's unique beauty than at a secluded riverfront retreat, nestled beneath lush native live oaks, pines and palms? That's the Steinhatchee Landing Resort (800-584-1709), just two miles from the Gulf of Mexico on the meandering Steinhatchee River. To reach it from Ginnie Springs, head south on U.S. 47 15 miles to the community of Trenton, where you'll take a left on South 129 for a half-mile, then right on State Road 26. After eight miles, head north on U.S. Alternate 27. Drive 30 miles to State Road 51 at Tennille. Turn left and drive nine miles to the resort. Steinhatchee Landing offers its guests swimming, boating, fishing, canoeing, tennis, basketball, bicycling and horseback riding. There's exceptional dining and, if you choose to stay overnight, accommodations include 34 Victorian and Florida Cracker cottages that re-create the Florida that was.

For more information on outdoor adventures throughout Florida contact the Florida Professional Paddlesports Association (863-494-1215) and Florida Division of Environmental Protection, Division of Recreation and Parks (850-488-9872).