All About The Steinhatchee Falls

Often paddling enthusiasts will drive along and span a bridge over a waterway, and look down to see if the waterway has paddling potential. If you have traveled US 98 along the Big Bend, you have probably crossed the Steinhatchee River and wondered about its paddling potential. Add this river to your list, because it can be paddled. Furthermore it includes a “waterfall,” Steinhatchee Falls , over which you can paddle. The Steinhatchee River is a 28-mile long river originating in the Mallory Swamp in North Central Florida and ending at the Gulf of Mexico . The exposed limestone adds a visually eye-catching appearance to the river. The added bonus is that for most of the downstream paddle, you will find the river hugged by —often with large, overhanging oaks and palms over the river. The water is clear and mildly tannic brown in color, which will be obvious when you paddled over white limestone river bottom. That noticeable roaring sound that could be mistaken for wind in the trees, will turn out, to your surprise, that it is a Florida rarity: a waterfall. Throw caution to the wind and paddle over the falls, it is only a few feet high. Downstream from the falls, you may enjoy seeing a pair of playful river otter pop up their heads in front of you or even a magnificent manatee. This, in combination with the many Great Blue Herons overhead, the possibility for a gator sighting and even the occasional eagle, makes for a wonderful wildlife encounter on the river.