Alexander Springs Creek:
Alexander Springs Creek is a beautiful 7.5 mile spring fed river on the edge of Ocala National Forest that begins wide and then narrows as you journey down river. The water is clear and scenery wonderful and because it is in the Ocala Forest there is no development. Alexander is sort like the little sister to Juniper. Although it isn’t as popular, it’s beauty is as equally appealing and it’s natural setting just as wonderful as Juniper. The path through Alexander Springs Creek can be confusing so it’s important that group stick together and follow the trip coordinators. River-wide strainers (trees crossing the river) might be present so caution must be taken when paddling Alexander. Shorter boats (< 14 feet) are perfect for this narrow run, but a skilled long boater should make it through without problems. Alexander’s current is approximately 1 MPH, so the float should be fairly leisurely.

Juniper Springs Creek:
Juniper Springs is considered the crown jewel of the Ocala National Forest. Juniper is spring fed with crystal clear water that is framed by palm trees that gives it a subtropical feel. The 7 mile run starts at the head-waters of the spring where you will have to carry your boat about 50 yards. In true river rat spirit, we should all expect to lend a hand and help fellow paddlers carry their boats. The 50 yard carry is well worth the spectacular scenery of Juniper springs. You will enter Juniper at a nice dock where the water is not even knee deep and you will wind your way through an intimate, twisty paradise. Initially, the creek is only about 8 feet wide, but it gets wider as you float downstream. You can also expect to do a few limbo like moves as you duck under low trees that drape just feet above the creek. The US Forest Service does an outstanding job of maintaining the river so there shouldn’t be any river-wide strainers or other serious river hazards, but as all river rat’s know, the river can change so you need to proceed cautiously. Toward the last couple of miles, the creek widens and opens into a prairie where wading birds can be easily observed. As with most Ocala creeks and rivers, there is no development and only wildlife to view from creeks edge. As with Alexander, shorter boats (< 14 feet) are perfect for the narrow, twisty turns of Juniper, but a skilled long boater should navigate the creek without any problems. The current is approximately 1-2 MPH, so it will be a nice float.

Silver River:
Silver River is formed by the pumping of Silver Spring’s 550 million gallons of water per day. Silver Springs is one of the largest artesian springs in the world. With its translucent, clear-blue waters, Silver Springs is a must see natural phenomena. However, the dedicated river rat will have to pay a price to view this natural wonder. In order to experience Silver Springs, you will have to paddle upstream against a 2-3 MPH current for 5 miles, but it is guaranteed to be well worth the effort. Another unusual feature of Silver River is the troupes of rhesus monkeys that live along the banks of the Silver River. Legend has it that the monkeys were released in the 1930’s during the filming of Tarzan movies. Be careful when approaching these animals and keep your distance from them. Long boats (> 14 feet) will rule during the upstream paddle because they will have the easiest time negotiating the upstream current, but shorter boats can easily make the trip as well. Silver River is fairly wide so there will be no significant river-wide obstacles to negotiate. For the most part, Silver River is isolated with no development, but as you approach the headwaters Silver River State Park and a boat ramp will be observed on river right (or to your left as you paddle upstream). The Silver Rivers State Park is a great place to stop and eat lunch or stretch your legs. This is also the launching point for the shorter, easier option. Your solitude will be interrupted as you approach the Silver Springs because Silver Springs Park, which is an amusement park, owns the land surrounding the spring. Slow moving glass bottom tour boats can be found along the springs. Paddlers are not allowed to get out at Silver Springs Park (at the springs/headwaters). The Silver Springs Park has been known to fine paddlers for setting foot on their property so beware! Strong river rat’s can have bragging rights for paddling the entire up and back journey of 10 miles, 5 of which are upstream miles! More casual river rats can paddle upstream and then turn around when they tire of fighting the current.

Ocklawaha River (Wayside Park to Gores’ Landing):
The Ocklawaha is a mysteriously beautiful, black water river that meanders through old growth forests and the only black water river that the river rats will experience during the Rendezvous. Fortunately, the Ocklawaha was been spared from development and still retains its wild, pristine character. State and federal agencies own most of the land that this portion of the Ocklawaha flows through. Cypress trees tower over the shimmering, mirror of black water and river rats will feel at home in this world that time forgot. The Ocklawaha is a mecca for migrating birds and even though it is winter, you will be surrounded by a symphony of wild birds in songs. The Ocklawaha is relatively wide, but there will occasionally be some dead falls or strainers that should be easily negotiated. The section of the Ocklawaha that we plan to paddle is approximately 10 miles, but with 3 MPH current the paddling should be easy. The Ocklawaha is great for all manner of boats. Longer boats (>14 feet) will go faster, but shorter boats can negotiate the deadfall a bit better.