Spring-to-Spring Trail
Updated: Sep 7
I learned about this trail back in 2020 from fellow a biker on the Apopka Loop Trail. I told him how much I enjoy trails with scenic views and he suggested this one. Its views did not disappoint and I learned a little Central Florida's history and especially those living and visiting along the St. John River.
I found myself back on the Spring-to-Spring Trail in 2026 to hit some spots on the Protect Out Lands Passport. A free, digital, interactive way to learn about the spaces available to the public, created by the non-profit, the St. Johns Riverkeeper. I love an adventure list and a challenge, so this had me circling back to this bike trail and the springs along it.
I usually park at Lake Monroe Park. To pop onto the trail, exit the parking lot entrance and turn right. The path will curve around the park, taking you on a 3 minute tour through a green belt and neighborhood. Soon you will see a gate and signage for the Spring-to-Spring Trail and estimated mileage to different landmarks.
Starting with a brief moment on a curving boardwalk, the path continues to wind through a lush hammock of Florida foliage.
For most of the path you are shaded, but there will be sections where you will be exposed to sun's rays, so don't pass on the sunscreen.
The first spring you will hit is Gemini Springs. Rolling down a long moss-covered driveway a large red barn house comes into view. This is a private residence so you can't enter it, but outside the wooden fence is a sign providing directions to parking and structures. And don't fret over your choice of where to park and start, both sides have pathways leading to the spring.
This is one of springs you can't swim in, but you can enjoy the grounds and breathtaking views.
Since I visited in 2020, they have made several improvements to area, including two restroom facilities, a shaded playground area, an event facility, and pathways leading over fairytale bridges to closer views of the springs.
As my favorite history podcast likes to say, “Let’s drop this place into history.”
This area has long played an important role in farming for the town of DeBary. Privately owned for many years, the property was established as a farm by John H. Padgett and his family in the 1940s. In 1969, the Gray family came to own the property and gave it the name Gemini Springs. Today, this small spring pumps out roughly 6 million gallons of water each day, making it a second-magnitude spring.
The water is incredibly clear, making it easy to spot all kinds of fish, turtles, and you might even see a gator sunning himself in green blanket of water hyacinth leaves.
The next destination and is Green Springs, but you will have to cover some territory to get there. Its about 20-25 minute bike ride from Gemini Springs to Green Springs.
Leaving Gemini Springs you will bike another section of tree-covered trail, before it turns into a wide sidewalk bike path, taking you under I-4 and through neighborhoods.
About 1/3 of way on your journey, you will see a sign with directions and mileage to Green Springs and DeBary's historic town hall.
The trail continues along Debary Avenue. Keep your eyes out for a sign after about 2 miles. It will veer you off onto a bike trail with calmer surroundings. You will get to ride over two sections of a boardwalk bridge, which is always so fun! You will arrive at Green Springs shortly afterward.
You will bike through a narrow entryway, down a small curving path towards the spring. They don't call it Green Springs for no reason. It is literally green!
You can't swim in it, but once upon a time people did. The sulfur that gives the water its unique color was also thought give it healing powers. The Native Americans believed it did, and so did others. Cornelius Taylor built his hotel in 1841, where the spring joined Lake Monroe. Advertising itself to those with illness and ailments, becoming one of Florida's first health spas. Eventually, it became part of steamboat baron Fredrick DeBary's estate. It was a sight to be seen in the 19th century and continues to be one today.
This springs park area also has some added picnic areas and a playground.
The Spring-to-Spring Trail connects these two springs, and as the trail continues to develop in phases, it will eventually extend to Blue Spring and De Leon Springs, creating a 26-mile connection between some of Central Florida’s most beautiful natural springs.
I can honestly say this is one of my favorite trails because I love exploring Florida springs. Although I couldn't swim in them, I enjoyed learning about them and they're part in Florida history.
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