Waterfall at the base of the steephead at Shoal Sanctuary. Lori Ceier/Walton Outdoors

Trails, sculptures and serenity await the nature lover in Mossy Head

Tucked away off the beaten path in north Walton County there is a unique outdoor experience for nature lovers called the Shoal Sanctuary.

Located on 50 acres of trails, sculptures and serene vistas, proprietors Robert and Chris Larson welcome visitors to their retreat dedicated to sharing the beauty of the outdoor experience and appreciation of Mother Nature’s gifts.

Recorded history dates back to the 1830s. The property is believed to of been along the path of the “Trail Of Tears.” After the U.S. government’s “Indian Removal Act,” Cherokee, Seminole, Creek, Timuquan, Muskhogean, and Apalachee were forced migrate west,  and lore sites a leg of that journey along the old Indian footpath now called Crowder Chapel Road near the retreat. Local Native Americans have said that Shoal Sanctuary was once a ceremonial gathering place.

In 2000, the Larson’s acquired 35 acres of land adjacent to their existing 16-acre property, and began a reforestation project blazing trails and developed the retreat along their Shoal river property. Long-leaf pine, ash magnolia, Torreya pine and other native trees have been planted to restore the land as the Larson’s participate in Florida’s Forest Stewardship program.

Trinkets fill the open spaces of the stone "memory walls" of the farmhouse.

A tour experience suited for all ages awaits along the trails of the sanctuary, as the Larson’s share their knowledge of indigenous fauna and flora. Robert has created sculptures in in a variety of mediums including stone and metal. Each piece nestled along the trail tells a different story of harmony and nature.

Take a hike down a steephead, and you will discover a small waterfall feeding the creek. Moss covers the sides of the ravine, and ancient mollusks coat the floor of the ravine. This special place has been the subject of historical research, and has been on the national geological registry since 1926.

Camping is available, and the Larson home can accommodate 2-10 overnight guests.

Spend the night and roast marshmallows as tales are told around the campfire, and in the morning enjoy a breakfast with fresh eggs provided by the Larson’s chickens.

Suggested donation: $15
Overnight accommodations: $50/room, $40/sofa bed $20/pull out mattresses in rooms (for children)

How to get there
Shoal Sanctuary is located in northern Walton County in Mossy Head, Florida. It is approximately 5 miles from exit 70 on I-10.
Call first for reservations: Phone: 850-651-0392
For more information, go to: www.ShoalSanctuary.com

Posted under Eco tourism adventure, Nature, Outdoor Family Fun, Trails/Hiking