Exploring Florida: Silver Glen Springs

By Abigail Phillips | gargoyle@flagler.edu

Between papers, midterms, homework, and extracurriculars, college can be overwhelming.

Luckily for Flagler College students, just an hour and a half south of St. Augustine you will find yourself amongst the relaxing blue waters of Silver Glen Springs. Freshwater springs have been a popular destination for travelers recently, many being right here in sunny Florida.

The crystal blue waters and unique ecosystems attract tourists and locals alike, to swim or enjoy one of the many other activities at a small entrance fee of $5.50 per person. At Silver Glen Springs your options are numerous, with canoe rentals until 3 p.m. at $16 for 2 hours, $24 for 4 hours, and $38 all day. There is also a small general store, which sells floaties, goggles, snorkeling gear, and snacks.

If you’re on a tight budget, you can still make the most out of your trip by exploring one of the hiking trails, Lake George Trail (3 miles roundtrip) or Spring Boils Trail (3/4 miles roundtrip).

Fishing is also allowed, not in the spring itself, but in the nearby run, which feeds into the massive Lake George. While summer is the most popular season to visit the springs, seeing around 700-1000 people per day on the weekends according to Cindy Iuzzolino, a recreation management employee, there is also a small rush in the colder months when the snowbirds come down from the north.

Iuzzolino also noted that a big appeal of these particular springs is the environment. While many springs these days have been modified to include a man made flooring, almost like a pool, Silver Glen continues to be one of the most natural springs, having no added equipment.