SOPCHOPPY RIVER CANOE TRAIL
DESCRIPTION: The Sopchoppy River is a good example of a blackwater stream. High, heavily wooded banks line the river. Wildlife is abundant. On the upper section, there is little evidence of civilization, but there are many homes on the lower section of the trail. River levels fluctuate rapidly after heavy rains. The narrow upper section twists and bends around clumps of cypress knees, but the river widens and the terrain becomes flatter as you near US 319. Motorboats also become more common.
MILEAGE: 15
SKILL LEVEL: Beginner (lower) to intermediate (upper)
DIFFICULTY: Easy (lower) to moderate (upper)
USUAL CURRENT: Average (2-3 mph)
NOTES AND PRECAUTIONS: At low water, many pullovers and some wading are required. Tides and winds can be encountered on the lower section. Check with the US Forest Service for water level information, (904)926-3561.
COUNTY HIGHWAY MAPS: Wakulla
USGS TOPO QUADS: Sanborn, Sopchoppy
EMERGENCY PHONE NUMBERS: 911 or Sheriff 926-7171
ACCESS POINTS:
1. Oak Park Cemetery Bridge - On NFR 346 north of SR 375 in Sopchoppy
2. Mt. Beeser Church Bridge - On NFR 343 north of SR 375, 2 miles northwest of Sopchoppy (5 miles)
3. SR 375 Bridge - in Sopchoppy (5 miles) 4. US 319 Bridge - 3 1/2 miles south of Sopchoppy (5 miles)
There may be access points (both public and private) in addition to those listed here. Please remember that some sites require a fee for launching and/or parking.
CANOE LIVERIES AND OUTFITTERS:
No information on canoe liveries or outfitters is available.