Shired Creek

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A tidal creek flowing through salt marshes, palm islands, and a maritime hammock.

Length:  4.8 miles from Shired Island ramp, under CR357 bridge, along a tidal creek into a maritime hammock to the Dixie Mainline bridge and return to the boat launch.  Time: 2.5 hours  

Skill Level:  Safe for all levels if calm conditions, otherwise be accompanied by intermediate level paddler.  Navigational skill required to follow creek at shir 002.

CAUTIONS:  Watch out for submerged pilings just east of CR357 bridge.  Pilings do not cause a problem at high tide because there are well below surface.  At low tide pilings are easy to see, but can cause damage to boats at mid-tide if unseen.  Do not attempt to paddle creek at low tide, when insufficient water conditions may exist.  Best time to paddle is last hour of incoming tides and return from Dixie Mainline bridge on outgoing tide.

For the Clever Paddler:  Launch the paddle ½ hour before high tide, and the clever paddler may not have to paddle one stroke. Granted this would be a slow paddle (drifting with incoming and outgoing tide), but, possible to just steer and enjoy the ride.

The following map and trail guide are provided courtesy of Friends of the Lower Suwannee and Cedar Key National Wildlife Refuges.

Click here for trail map and guide.

DISCLAIMER:  The Original Florida Tourism Task Force (dba Visit Natural North Florida) and the North Central Florida Regional Planning Council do not warrant the accuracy or timeliness of this map and paddle guide or the safety of this trail for use by paddlers.   Paddlers should use this trail only if they have the adequate skill level and equipment, and paddlers must make that determination.  Paddlers should also check weather forecasts and water levels in advance to avoid unnecessary danger.  The Original Florida Tourism Task Force, the local governments in which theis paddling trail is located and the North Central Florida Regional Planning Council are not responsible for any damages whatsoever from its use.