Discover a whole new Florida away from the beach with a paddling adventure to Econfina Creek, a spring fed creek in Bay and Washington counties that is part of Florida’s greenways and trails. Despite suffering damage to its protective forest canopy during Hurricane Michael, this natural wonder is open and accessible for a day of adventure in the Florida sun.

Photo by We Create LIFT

Protected by the Northwest Florida Water Management District, Econfina Creek and the sandhills that surround it create a rare habitat with cold, clear water, lush tropical vegetation, varied bird life and fascinating geologic and hydrologic features. Find unique limestone banks created from the underlying limestone aquifers that produces the clear and clean spring water.

The creek does have shallow areas and submerged logs making it best suited for kayaks, paddleboards or canoes that can navigate any obstacles along the way. Considered one of Florida’s most scenic canoe trails, it is still an easy and leisurely trip well suited to novice paddlers and groups of all ages.

Launch at the Econfina Creek Canoe Livery but leave a car at the Highway 388 bridge first to transport your group back to the beginning following the relaxing 6-mile paddle. Pack a lunch, sunscreen, bug spray and your snorkel gear, and plan for at least a four-hour trip to allow for plenty of swimming stops. Check in with the Livery for any updates on conditions or guidelines before you go and get ready to experience a completely different and equally stunning side of Northwest Florida!

Photo by We Create LIFT