In the early 1900’s the railroad was replacing the steamship as the freight and passenger carrier of the Nature Coast.

Trains hauled crops and timber throughout he Suwannee Valley, making passenger stops in small towns such as Chiefland, Cross City and Trenton.

Today you can travel in the shadow of these early trains by retracing their historic route in the Nature Coast Trail State Park. The 31.7 miles of the Nature Coast Trail connects three counties and five communities.

Hours of Operation

The park is open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.

Driving Directions

The southern boundary of the Nature Coast Trail is located in the city of Chiefland. Travel north into Chiefland on US 19. Just before you enter the downtown area, on your right, you will see the old train depot, behind the Greenway Sub shop, and gazebos at the trailhead.

The eastern boundary of the Nature Coast Trail is located in the city of Trenton. Out of Gainesville, travel west on State Road 26. Turn north onto State Road 129. Two (2) blocks north of the intersection of SR 129 and SR 26 will be the Trenton Train Depot located at the trailhead. Park in the grassy area on the north side of the Depot. A parking area is in future development plans. This parking area will be located on the east side of the depot and will be accessible on the south side from several streets.

The western boundary of the Nature Coast Trail is located in the city of Cross City. Travel north into Cross City on US 19. There will be an old train depot on the right side of US 19 in the city of Cross City. Turn right at the last intersection before the train depot and then take an immediate left. Park near the train depot on the grass.

The hub or middle of the Nature Coast Trail is located just inside of the city of Fanning Springs. Take US 19 north; the trailhead crosses US 19 just after the Agriculture Inspection Station. After crossing the trail, take the next right. A grass parking area is available.

An additional trailhead can be found just to the West of the Suwannee River in Old Town. Traveling north on US 19, turn right in downtown Old Town on SR 349. The trail crosses the road 1 block after the intersection.

Park Fees

There is no entrance fee for this park.

Nature Coast Trail State Park 11650 NW 115th Street Chiefland, Florida 32626 Phone: 352-493-6072 Park Manager: Sally Lieb