100 Savannah Blvd

Micanopy, FL 32667

Paynes Prairie is unique in many ways. Nowhere else in Florida can visitors experience wild-roaming bison and horses. Nearly 300 species of birds also frequent the park along with alligators, deer and many other animals. The park is open 8 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year. Horseback riding is popular along the Chacala Trail, which is a multi-use trail with a series of loops encompassing 6.5 miles in length. The level trail winds through several distinct biological communities, including pine flatwoods, hardwood forest or hammock, baygall, open ponds and old fields. A diversity of wildlife may be observed including deer, bobcat, wild turkey and the pileated woodpecker. This trail is open to horse, bike and foot traffic and is accessed from the main park entrance.

Horses are allowed on the trail except east of the Lochloosa trailhead. For most of the distance, a grassy equestrian pathway is available.

Horse riders are required to have proof of negative Coggins on their person or in their saddlebag.