Paynes Prairie Hike at Bolen Bluff with Wild Horses

What Is Paynes Prairie?

Paynes Prairie is exactly that. A prairie. It is 20,00 to 23,000 (I see different numbers reported online!) acres of savanna located in north central Florida. It became Florida’s first state preserve in 1971 and is now designated as a National Natural Landmark. According to Florida State Parks, noted artist and naturalist William Bartram called it the Great Alachua Savannah when he wrote about his visit to the prairie in 1774.

Why Paynes Prairie Is Special: Wildlife & Biodiversity

Paynes Prairie is so special because it is home to such a wide array of animals. Over 270 species of birds, bison, alligators, deer, Florida cracker cattle, Florida cracker horses, swamp rabbits, snakes, and wild hogs call this land home.

The wild Florida cracker horses and cattle are descendants of Spanish Breeds brought to Florida by Ponce de Leon in 1521. They ended up here when there wasn’t room to bring them back on the ships to Spain. After being left to their own devices, they adapted to the unique Florida climate and environment.

There are over 720 species of plants found on Paynes Prairie. Including the Southern Dewberry pictured below (related to blackberries).

Best Places to Spot Bison and Horses

If you’re lucky enough, you might get to see the plains bison. They were reintroduced to the park from the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge in 1975. What started as 10 back in 1975 has grown to a herd estimated to be around 50-70 strong. It is recommended to try and see the bison at the observation tower at the visitor center, on the Cones Dike Trail, Bolen Bluff Trail, or La Chua Trail. I have unfortunately not gotten to see them, but many people say it is easiest to see them from afar on one of the observation towers while using binoculars. I have also found the visitor center to provide helpful information on sightings.

Native American History and Paynes Prairie

Paynes Prairie is part of the Southeastern conifer forests ecoregion. It is a large Floridian highlands freshwater marsh. It is composed of different plant communities based on the depth of the water. , composed of different herbaceous plant communities that vary based on water depth. It also has a rich history connected to Florida’s Native American tribes.

The prairie was home to Native Americans for over 12,000 years. There is archaeological evidence of settlements dating back to the Paleo, Cades Pond, and Alachua periods. The prairie was also a significant settlement for the Timucua Indians and the Seminole tribe.

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Hiking the Bolen Bluff Trail

The Bolen Bluff Trail is a 2.6-mile loop offering some of the best wildlife viewing in Paynes Prairie. The trail begins in shady upland hammocks before opening onto a grassy bluff that overlooks the expansive prairie.

Trail Highlights

• Moderate difficulty, mostly flat

• Ends at an elevated observation platform with panoramic views

• High chance of seeing horses, deer, and birds

• Pets are not allowed on this trail due to wildlife concerns

Spotting the Wild Horses of Paynes Prairie

The highlight of my visit to Paynes Prairie was finally getting to see the wild horses. I had visited many times and had never seen them. This trip, I went to Bolden Bluff. I was getting worried I would not see them as I walked out onto the Bluff and saw no signs of life. Luckily, as I approached the observation tower, I could see a herd of them. There were also two foals present, which made the sighting even more special.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Visit Paynes Prairie

I highly recommend making a trip to Paynes Prairie. There are over 30 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails. There is also a 15-mile paved rails-to-trails trail, the Gainesville-Hawthorne Trail.  There are 4 observation platforms, including a 50-foot tower near the Visitor Center. The center is open 9 am – 4 pm daily. Depending on the trail, pets may not be allowed due to the threat of animal conflict.

The park itself is open from 8 am to sundown, 365 days a year. Each trail has varied parking, so for the most accurate fees, make sure to check Florida State Parks. The most is $6, and the lowest is $2.

I hope you get to check out one of the most unique parts of Florida and its vibrant ecological diversity.

Happy Adventuring!