Alachua County’s Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park is truly something special. It’s a National Landmark, and comprises a sinkhole that’s about 500′ wide, reaching 120′ down into the earth before you reach water. There are 132 steps on a beautiful boardwalk leading down the side of this sinkhole, and landings where you can enjoy the views. Hurricane Irma destroyed the original staircase, which was longer, but the new boardwalk protects the sinkhole and visitors alike.
Ranger Tours at 10 am on Saturdays
We were fortunate enough to arrive just as a ranger-led tour was departing. We hopped into the group and started our descent. We learned that the name Devil’s Millhopper came from local legends that the devil lived in this large hole and that the vaguely funnel-like shape is that of the hopper of a grain mill. Did the devil actually kidnap an Indian princess and take her away to the sinkhole? Probably not, but that’s one of the stories told about this special place.
The property was once owned by University of Florida, but was purchased by the State of Florida in 1972. In 1974, it became a State Park. The sinkhole is over 10,000 years old and is one of Florida’s largest.
Water, Water Everywhere!
As you walk down into the sinkhold, you notice how verdant the sides are. Water runs down the surface and through the limestone. This provides moisture for plants and animals that make their homes in the Millhopper, as well as visitors.
The water running down the sides was as clear as springwater on the morning we visited. Storms may cause the water to look muddy or debris-filled. The water in the bottom of the sinkhole looks green and mossy.
There are nature trails in this park, but they are not loop trails. Be sure to carry water and use sunscreen and insect repellent. Good sturdy shoes or boots wil be helpful, too, as the trails can be rocky in places. Remember that this is a fragile habitat, and stay on the trail to protect the plants and animals that live here. If you should be fortunate enough to find an artifact, please leave it in place and notify a ranger so that the history of the Millhopper can be fully understood.
Great Hiking Nearby
Nearby, you will find San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park, a really good location for hiking. If you have a day to spend, you can hike at San Felasco until the heat becomes oppressive, and then climb down into the coolness of the Devil’s Millhopper sinkhole and enjoy the sounds of waterfalls and birdsong.