Early autumn in Walton County abounds with color

September 21, 2012

Assorted varieties of liatris can be found at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park. Lori Ceier/Walton Outdoors

Autumn brings colorful display to forest floors

Fall brings a colorful time to explore the outdoors in  Northwest Florida.

In Walton County, we are fortunate to have several State Parks and the Point Washington State Forest providing and abundance of seasonal wildflowers and migrating butterflies.

To name just a few native flowers in bloom this time of year are wild buckweat (Eriogonum tomentosum), hairy jointweed (Polygonella basiramia), senna symeria (seymeria cassioides), goldenaster (Chrysopsis sabrella), goldenrod (Soldago tortifolia), figwort (Agalinis satacea) and blazing star (Litatris champanii).

Goldenaster (Chrysopsis sabrella) can be found in colorful abundance in the Point Washington State Forest. Lori Ceier/Walton Outdoors

With the cooler weather, now is the time to get out and explore the natural beauty of Walton County.

Here are detailed maps of trails in Walton:

Trail Maps:

North Walton:
NokuseTrail
BayLoopTrail

South Walton:
TopsailHillStateParkTrail
PointWashingtonTrail
KelloggTrail
GreenwayTrail
GraytonBeachTrails
DeerLakeTrail

Primitive camping is currently permitted in the Point Washington State Forest in a designated area. Click here to learn more.

Hikers note: Point Washington State Forest is part of the Point Washington Wildlife Management Area. The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission regulates the hunting seasons in the forest. Visit MyFWC.com/hunting for information. During hunting season be sure to wear bright colored clothing when hiking in the area.