Ross Prairie State Forest
The largest prairie habitat on the Cross Florida Greenway system can be found on the Ross Prairie Loop.
When you start the 3.5 mile loop at the Ross Prairie Trailhead, you will get an overview of Ross Prairie itself. The grasslands, ponds, and pine forests offer a unique experience you will not soon forget. Lush ferns and orchids make this ecosystem a real highlight of any visit to the Greenway.
Prairie grasses come in a variety of shapes and sizes, rising from ancient sand dunes on the Ocala limestone. When a rainy season is strong enough, the permanent ponds will cause the prairie to become a marsh. The Ross Prairie Loop combines the Florida Trail, which runs along the north and western edges of the prairie, and two blue-blazed connector trails to the trailhead.
Directions & Location
Follow SR 200 south from Ocala, crossing CR 484. Look for the trailhead at the green sign 1.5 miles past CR 484 on the left. Follow the road around to park near the restrooms. The trailhead offers an RV campground, access to equestrian trails, and another hiking trail, the 2.1-mile Holly Hammock Loop in adjacent Ross Prairie State Forest.