Bluffs and “black” waters. Unlike on most Florida trails, hikers here actually get to walk up and down a bit. Visitors can partake in the finest hiking in the entire Florida Aquatic Gems area.
Visitors to the western Martin’s Dairy portion of the multi-segmented Doris Leeper Spruce Creek Preserve can enjoy pathways to fabulous views overlooking lovely Spruce Creek from towering Sunset Bluff. It is an ideal location for watching glorious evening displays reflected on the creek’s tannin-stained “black” waters and shimmering grass marshes. This part of the preserve is also the site of a massive shell midden, the primary feature of the Spruce Creek Mound Complex, one of over 20 archaeological sites in the preserve. It was constructed over 1,000 years ago by people in what archaeologists call the St. Johns culture.
The creek becomes extremely wide in the eastern portions of the preserve and includes Strickland Bay, Turnbull Bay and Rose Bay. The Volusia County park near S.R. 1 includes access for canoes and kayaks plus a trail to an observation tower overlooking a large expanse of marshlands. Bald eagles and dolphins are commonly seen here.
The creek becomes extremely wide in the eastern portions of the preserve and includes Strickland Bay, Turnbull Bay and Rose Bay. The Volusia County park near S.R. 1 includes access for canoes and kayaks plus a trail to an observation tower overlooking a large expanse of marshlands. Bald eagles and dolphins are commonly seen here.
Extraordinary Excursions
- Find ideal sunset viewing over a large bend in the creek atop Sunset Bluff
- Visit the major archaeological site near the Oxbow Overlook
- Walk and climb the boardwalk and observation towers in the eastern part of the preserve