Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge

Trails

Three Sisters Springs is a 57 acre with over 2 miles of trails. Refuge trails and the boardwalk provide family-friendly wildlife and springs viewing areas. All trails have very little elevation gain, offering easy walks without losing any of the natural opportunities. Need help navigating? Refer to the map provided by the Three Sisters Springs Center or the Gatehouse. 

All trails are open from 8:30am to 4:30pm year-round, except for Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Veteran’s Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. The skill level of all trails is easy with no elevation gain. The trails are gravel or grass with the exception of the boardwalk. Entrance fee applies. 

This trail is an elevated wooden boardwalk with railings and multiple overlooks surrounding the springs. It provides exceptional manatee viewing during the winter months, and photography opportunities year-round. Several benches offer a place to rest. This trail has no debris or elevation. Wheelchair access ramps and wheelchair-friendly viewing areas are available.
Trail Length (mi)
0.27
Trail Difficulty
Difficulty Meter / introductory
Easy
Estimated Time
20 minutes
Route Type
Point to point
Suitability
Kid friendly
Wheelchair friendly

3 Sisters Springs Boardwalk

View Trail
This trail is the shortest route from the Three Sister Springs entrance to the boardwalk.
Trail Length (mi)
0.26
Trail Difficulty
Difficulty Meter / introductory
Easy
Estimated Time
15 minutes
Route Type
Point to point
Suitability
Kid friendly

Wetlands Trail (ADA)

View Trail
Enjoy an easy walk on connecting the boardwalk and pavilion trails. This trail is in the Southwest corner of Three Sister Springs and offers views of the springs and wildlife.
Trail Length (mi)
0.49
Trail Difficulty
Difficulty Meter / introductory
Easy
Estimated Time
15 minutes
Route Type
Point to point
Suitability
Kid friendly

Magnolia Loop Trail

View Trail
Trail Length (mi)
0.05
Trail Difficulty
Difficulty Meter / introductory
Easy
Estimated Time
5 minutes
Route Type
Point to point
Trail Activities
Suitability
Kid friendly

Pavilion Trail

View Trail
The Sweet Gum Trail follows the Northern boundary of Three Sister Springs. This trail connects the Magnolia loop with the Wetlands Trail (ADA).
Trail Length (mi)
0.40
Trail Difficulty
Difficulty Meter / introductory
Easy
Estimated Time
20 minutes
Route Type
Point to point
Suitability
Kid friendly

Sweet Gum Trail

View Trail
This grass trail takes you through the quieter areas of Three Sisters Springs where you have a unique view of the wetland and opportunities to see wildlife.
Trail Length (mi)
0.59
Trail Difficulty
Difficulty Meter / introductory
Easy
Estimated Time
30 minutes
Route Type
System
Suitability
Kid friendly

Wetlands Trail

View Trail