With apologies to Jimmy Buffet.
The final day of our five-day Forgotten Coast Tour began in Crawfordville and ended nearly 30 miles later in the middle of Tallahassee. And it was a trail ride all the way.
Of course it was cold. It’s November for goodness sakes.
Crossing the Wakulla River on the Panacea-to-St. Marks trail was a real treat. The crystalline water flows from what I have been assured by local boosters is the “deepest spring in the world.”
And if that’s not true, then it ought to be.
(BTW) It is a matter of historical fact that I once took a header from a canoe in the Wakulla River on my first date with the woman who would become my wife. I had to climb up a tree to get back into the canoe as the river has very swampy banks infested with snakes, gators and, no doubt, ravenous fresh water sharks. The good news is that although I tipped the canoe it did not capsize and Jill remained aboard. Which is no doubt why she married me.)
The Tallahassee-St. Marks Trail is one of the oldest rail-trails in Florida and a joy to ride.
Plus, it’s, you know, historic and stuff.
This is the original trail head just outside Capital Circle. The jumping off point before the trail was extended into the very heart of Tallahassee.
We ended our ride at scenic Lake Elberta Park.
Which is a storm water treatment facility cleverly disguised as a bird sanctuary. They let you watch the birds but not shoot ‘em.
And then lunch at the Railroad Square Arts District. Which is a flippin’ cool place. (Am I allowed to say ‘flippin’ in a blog?)
So, to sum up our Forgotten Coast Tour:
Drink it up
This ones for you
It’s been a lovely cruise
I’m sorry it’s ended
It’s sad but it’s true
Honey it’s been a lovely cruise
These moments we’re left with
May you always remember
These moments are shared by few
There’s wind in our hair
And there’s water in our shoes
Honey, it’s been a lovely cruise
And those harbor lights
Aw they’re coming into view
We bid our farewell much too soon
Yea baby, it’s been a lovely cruise
Oh darlin’ it’s been a lovely cruise
FreeGNV 