Apalachicola National Forest is good for ATV riding. The 564,000-acre forest -Florida's largest includes stands of exotic cypress, live oak and magnolia trees. Framed by Tallahassee and Interstate 10 to the north and the Gulf of Mexico to the south, the area boasts a year-round temperate climate, with a yearly average of 340 days of sunshine and 75-degree temperatures. It's a virtual oasis for almost any sort of recreation,especially ATV riding and with Tallahassee so close by, there's plenty to do for the entire family.
In addition to ATV riding, other available recreational activities include swimming, boating, fishing, hunting and camping. For hikers and bicyclists, a portion of the Florida National Scenic Trail and the Munon Hills Off-Road Bicycle Trail offer opportunities for exploration of remote forest areas. Be aware of these other types of traffic when riding your ATV in this area.
Currently, there are no ATV Trail maps for these trails, but the U.S. Forest service is working to have them available to ATV riders. Since there are no markings for the ATV riders in some areas, many ATV riders go trailblazing which unfortunately causes a lot of damage to the terrain and the reason there will be marked ATV trails and maps to follow on your ride in the near future.
There is a large number of alligators, snakes and other local wildlife that inhabit this area, alligators are notoriously shy and mostly if you don't bother them, they won't bother you. Navigate your ATV widely around any wildlife you encounter, that is the safest action for both you and the animal. You'd be well advised to stay away from the Tate's Hell Swamp area in the southern part of the forest. It's a breeding ground for the deadly water moccasin, so consequently the area is heavily infested with these creatures.
Apalachicola has a lot of lush forest and wildlife to see on your ATV ride.
