Route description:

To follow this trail, launch at Big Talbot Island State Park. Follow the Intracoastal Waterway southwest around the bend, then head south down the Intracoastal Waterway. At the intersection of the Intracoastal Waterway and the Fort George River, turn left into the Fort George River. Paddle southeast down to the Alimacani Boat Ramp at Huguenot Park.

This trail takes about five hours, one-way, without stops. The boat ramp is located on the north end of the island and charges $4 per boat launched.

GPS Coordinates/Address:

Launchpoint:
Big Talbot Island State Park Boat Launch
30º 30´ 37.6´´ -81º 27´ 42.1´´
12157 Heckscher Drive, Jacksonville, Florida 32233.

Intracoastal changes from southwestern to southeastern heading:
30º 30´ 24.1´´ -81º 28´ 16.3´´

Intersection of Intracoastal Waterway and north entrance of Mud Creek:
30º 27´ 12.8´´ -81º 26´ 52.4´´

Intersection of Intracoastal Waterway and south entrance of Mud Creek:
30º 26´ 29.6´´ -81º 26´ 21.9´´

Kingsley Plantation Launch Point:
30º 26´ 25.1´´ -81º 26´ 11.3´´

Sand bar near Kingsley Plantation:
30º 26´ 24.9´´ -81º 25´ 32.2´´

Mouth of Simpson Creek on Fort George River:
30º 26´ 25.9´´ -81º 25´ 17.8´´

Ribault Clubhouse Boat Launch:
30º 25´ 41.7´´ -81º 25´ 22.6´´

Endpoint:
Alimacani Boat Ramp at Huguenot Park
30º 25´ 17.2´´ -81º 25´ 22.6´´
11080 Heckscher Drive, Jacksonville, Florida 32226

Warnings:

Shortly after leaving Big Talbot Island State Park Boat Launch, the Intracoastal Waterway changes from a southwestern to southeastern heading, near the entrance of Sawpit Creek. Stay to the west to avoid a sandbar. Heavy boat traffic may be present on the Intracoastal Waterway. After entering the Fort George River, just past the Kingsley Plantation Launch Point, look out for sandbars. Steer around these by staying in the darker colored, faster moving water. At the intersection of the Fort George River and Simpson Creek, boat traffic may be heavy, especially on weekends. As you near Alimacani Boat Ramp, currents may be strong.

Points of Interest:

This trail has beautiful scenery, starting on the eastern shoreline of Big Talbot Island State Park, a nature preserve located on one of Florida’s unique sea islands. Bluffs overlook the beach, which is famous for the salt washed skeletons of live oak and cedar trees that once grew near the shore. Kayak rentals and guided tours are available through Kayak Amelia.

This trail also takes you along the southwestern coastline of Amelia Island State Park. This park protects over 200 acres of unspoiled wilderness.  Beautiful beaches, salt marshes, and coastal maritime forests provide visitors with a glimpse of the original Florida.

You will also paddle past the north and east sides of Fort George Island Cultural State Park on the Fort George River. This historic site is lined with beautiful beaches, particularly on the south side. Visitors can explore the historic Kingsley Plantation, which operated during 1763 to 1865. The grounds include the slave quarters, kitchen house, barn, garden, and plantation house. Admission is free and the Plantation is open seven days a week, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.