The ECONLOCKHATCHEE RIVER

Length:18 miles

Canoeing time: 8 hours

Access: Start: State Road 419

Finish: State Road 46

Notes: Two possible, and totally different trips. 1) State Road 419 to Snowhill Road, or Snowhill Road to State Road 46.

The Econlockhatchee River canoe trail, one of the last unspoiled rivers in Central Florida, winds for 18 miles through forested flatlands, swamps, and pasture only a 30 minute drive from downtown Orlando. The trail begins 2.5 miles NW of Chuluota on State Road 419. Check the water-level gauge at the bridge 2 miles northwest of Chuluota on Snow Hill Road. The rivers black waters flow swiftly through the first portion of the trail, which twists and turns between fallen logs and 15 foot high banks lined with oaks and cabbage palms.

Be aware of the possibility of weed jams in this area, portages are difficult in some sections due to the high banks. Take out will be at Snow Hill Road making the first section an 8 mile run.

Below the bridge, the banks are lower, cypress trees and clusters of cabbage palms line the banks. The river becomes even broader 6.5 miles below the bridge. Tree-lined banks give way to pasture land and the marshes of the St.Johns River.Where the Econlockhatchee enters the St. Johns, turn left and paddle 1.5 miles to the S.R. bridge, which is clearly visible from the mouth of the Econ. The takeout is at the northwest corner of the bridge. The second section is an 11 mile paddle.

AREA MAP