After a few days to rest, I went on a short ramble in Bulow Creek State Park once again, retracing my steps from Walter Boardman Road south on the old road towards Cedar Creek. The trail is still under water across the wetlands; it may take a month or so of dry weather to reveal the trail.

I did spot a heron at the Creek and managed not to spook it.

Next, I traced another portion of the old road that heads towards Bulow Creek on the eastern edge of the woods. There I picked up the blue loop trail that circles around this quiet part of the woods.

After diving into the forest, I eventually lost the trace due to some fallen trees (probably from the latest hurricane) and turned back without completing the loop. Back on the old road, I found the end of the loop and traced it back until stopped by a pile of fallen trees and some confusion. Again, I retraced my steps, back to the old road.

Next, I found the entrance to a “secret” little peninsula that juts out into Bulow Creek, giving one a view of High Bridge Road across the wetlands of the creek.

I knew the existence of all these trails from previous visits in 2016 and early 2017. And if anyone is concerned about me hiking alone, don’t be… I’ve been hiking since my twenties, backpacking, skiing, etc. I was alone for most of the trip, along with some birds and squirrels. The woods were very quiet, with just a light breeze starting up when I was out in the peninsula with access to the tannic waters of Bulow Creek.

The coast is not very far from Bulow Woods. A drive along Walter Boardman Road to High Bridge Road will put a driver onto SR A1A, the coastal highway. There it is a choice to go left (to Flagler Beach/St. Augustine) or right (Ormond Beach). I had wanted to also visit North Peninsula SP, but decided against any more walking. I’m still regaining my stamina and pay close attention to how my body is feeling.

For anyone planning to visit the area, Bulow Woods can be accessed from Old Dixie Highway, one exit south of SR 100 and north of Ormond Beach. Old Dixie Highway passes under an overhanging canopy of Live Oaks until reaching the prairie and wetlands near Tomoka State Park, just outside of the northern fringe of Ormond Beach.

Well, there is my trip report for today. Hope you enjoy the photos. The morning was foggy so the colors are quite muted.

Eliza

Camera: Nikon Coolpix L830

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