As of spring 2001, The Yearling Trail offers an alternative exploration into Juniper Prairie Wilderness. The other trail is the 1,300-mile Florida National Scenic Trail.

A new trail along State Highway 19 across from Silver Glen Springs Recreation Area provides a 6-mile hike into Juniper Prairie Wilderness Area. The trail is named "The Yearling," after Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings' 1939 Pulitzer Prize winning novel. It was along this trail that Hollywood came and filmed the 1870-era movie depicting the famed story of a 12-year old boy whose father was driven to abolish the pet fawn because it destroyed their meager food crops.

A kiosk is located at the entrance / trailhead offering interpretive brochures.

The alternative access into Juniper Prairie Wilderness Area is via the Florida National Scenic Trail. Access to the long distance trail is available at Juniper Springs Recreation Area off State Highway 40.

Directions: From Astor, FL, Travel west along State Highway 40 approximately 5 miles. Turn right (north) onto FL 19 and go about 6 miles north. The trail entrance is on the left side of the road across from Silver Glen Springs entrance.

Elevation: 5 - 10 feet

Elevation Gain: Minimal

Distance: 6 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Visitor Information

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