O'Leno State Park and the River Sink trail

 

 You always make interesting discoveries when you get out in nature.

But of course some are more surprising than others.

We camped at O'Leno State Park here in Florida and hiked the River Sink trail. 

 

What amazes you is when the Santa Fe River appears to end at about the 1/2  mile mark.

 

The Santa Fe River begins it's journey at lakes Santa Fe and Alto Northeast of Gainesville. 

 

The river flows West 44 miles.

And then it disappears.

Yes...you read that right.

It disappears for a little over 3 miles before coming back up at River Rise Preserve State Park

 

You can even see some swirling right in the center like a sink draining out.

 

The Santa Fe River is unique with the water flowing underground in an intricate cave system.

 

And according to the State Park website, "The best part?

It is all protected for future generations so that 

they too can appreciate this natural wonder."

 

More info on the website HERE.

Kingfisher

 

What a privilege to travel to this park and witness it ourselves.

If that wasn't enough? We were there during the Christmas holidays and I saw a Christmas Leprechaun.

 

  

He was out on a limb hanging over the Santa Fe River.

  

I couldn't believe my eyes.

  

But he became very real when I met him on the trail.

I gave him my Lavender Dreams card and he emailed me so that I could send him some photos.

And was this a monster under the branch?

  

 

Use your imagination! (It's really just a log or branch underwater.)

And yes, I did see more than one real alligator!   

 

What do you think?

 

Is it more surprising to see a river disappear underground or to see a leprechaun wave at you from the river?

 

 

 

I hope you all had a wonderful holiday season! 

"Happy New Year"

 

 I’m joining Saturday’s critters HERE.