One of the best places in Florida to capture a glimpse of fall foliage, Torreya State Park is situated on a high bluff above the Apalachicola River. Head west of Tallahassee to this tranquil oasis to discover plenty of exciting outdoor adventures combined with an array of botanical wonders, geologic anomalies and historic sites to explore.
Named for the extremely rare Torreya tree found along the park’s bluffs, this picturesque area is one of Florida’s natural gems. While the rest of Florida is enjoying its year-round summer weather, Torreya’s expanse of lush foliage and forests of hardwood trees provides a picture-perfect backdrop throughout the year, most notably in fall when you’ll find a colorful display of the changing landscape.
A popular spot for wildlife watching and overnight camping, set up for an overnight adventure in one of the developed or primitive campsites. Home to the only yurt rental in the Florida Park Service, it boasts a 20-foot round, domed tent with a skylight featuring modern amenities such as air-conditioning, an outdoor deck, and a spacious living space that can accommodate up to five guests.
Torreya State Park is a historic landmark, serving as one of the original Florida State Parks opened to the public in 1935. Spend the day exploring the park or take a ranger-guided tour of the Gregory House, a fully furnished 3,000-square-foot plantation home built in 1849. During the Civil War some 200 soldiers called the high bluffs their home, where cannon emplacements can still be seen today.
If you’re up for some exercise, take a hike on one of the scenic trails that offer a hilly adventure you won’t find in many other places in the Sunshine State. The Torreya Hiking Trail is one of the most rugged hikes in Florida, where you’ll be rewarded with a scenic landscape of bluffs and ravines 300 feet above the Apalachicola River. To reach a picturesque waterfall splashing off the edge, take a journey through the Weeping Ridge Trail.
Torreya State Park:
Address: 2576 NW Torreya Park Rd., Bristol, FL 32321
Phone: (850) 643-2674
Official Website
