Discover the wonders of Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail, a scenic pathway that spans 16 miles from Gainesville’s Boulware Springs Park through the enchanting landscapes of Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park and surrounding conservation areas. This picturesque greenway, once a historic railway line, now showcases Florida’s natural beauty with its native flora and fauna, captivating scenery, and charming local culture. Along the trail, you’ll encounter various points of interest that weave together a tale of quaint railroad towns, vintage locomotives, and the bustling human history that once thrived in this corridor. The main trail is smoothly paved, with a parallel equestrian trail offering a grassy route for horseback riders. Convenient parking can be found at four trailheads: Boulware Springs City Park in Gainesville, the intersection of county roads 234 and 2082 at Prairie Creek Preserve in Rochelle, a location off County Road 2082 near Hawthorne, and at 2182 S.E. 71st Ave. in Hawthorne. Explore and immerse yourself in the rich heritage and natural wonders that await you on the Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail.