We have been trying to explore as much as we can and like to visit state parks that are underestimated or are not known of so much. We left Florida really early around 2 am at night. On our way to Whitwell, TN, we planned to stop by Georgia’s grand canyon- Providence Canyon State Park.
Well, no place can compare to the real Grand Canyon National Park, but… this place in Georgia is something unique and incredible. Providence Canyon State Park is considered “little Grand Canyon” for a reason. The state park’s little canyons are making a great scenery. Located in the South-west Georgia, the park covers 1,003-acre land. The park is also called Seven Natural Wonders of Georgia. The canyons formed after the exploitive farming practices in the area leading to the destruction of topsoil. The gullies grew into the 150-foot canyons.
The park provides tons of opportunities to hike, camp and site-seeing. We hiked down to the canyon floor. The Canyon Loop Trail is well marked and labeled. The puddles and streams on the trail add beauty. Make sure to wear rain boots! Enjoy the mud! The canyon walls are stunning, however, more prone to the erosion. We noticed many carvings on the canyon walls; however, the walls particles are loosely formed. The canyons provide small picture of Sedona, Arizona. The place provided a feel of grand canyon in Arizona. We were nostalgic but at the same time appreciative of the beautiful construction of nature.
We automatically tend to compare one place to another every single time. However, all places from little grand canyon to the real grand canyon, all have their own natural beauty and importance to that particular place. Knowing the fact, that this kind of topography exists in Georgia itself is a valuable knowledge. We could see people travelling from all around the states there. It’s worth the visit. As we left the place to travel to Whitwell from Georgia, we were on phone with our grand mother. She informed us that her parents used to camp in this state park in an RV. This just made us feel fascinated about the place even more.
It’s probably been few months since I haven’t posted here. But, we would like our readers to stay connected to us via Instagram. Our handle is @mystorybucket. Stick to us by following our stories and our travels.
By the title of this post, you have probably already guessed what I am going to talk about today. Yes! our cabin experience. We travelled back to Tennessee again to unwind from our regular jobs. If you have been reading previous posts, we were hiking in the Great Smokey Mountains last time, staying at the Pigeon Forge in a beautiful Airbnb trailer home. We didn’t go to the Smokey’s again this time. However, we went to very quiet and secluded place located in the middle of nowhere at Whitwell, Tennessee. Whitwell is about an hour north from Chattanooga, TN. It was tedious winding roads from Chattanooga to the cabin. Local people drive very fast even in such winding roads, but be careful with the traffic. There are plenty of blind spots, and it will be even more challenging if you travel at night.
Let’s talk about cabin now. The cabin was located in the private camping area owned by Camp Chet. Camp Chet has huge area, I would say whole mountain designated for camping. We ended up reaching at the office, however, the owner made us drive around the mountain to where our cabin was located. The roads were unpaved and we were pretty nervous if our sedan could make it. It did! so Yay to that! It was pretty nerve-wracking though.
The cabin is so isolated in the middle of the forest. The forest probably doesn’t have a name. I don’t know. I have to check with the owner. The cabin was beautiful. It didn’t have any utilities- no power supply, no water supply. However, there was portable toilet available at the common area/ near pavilion. The whole camp site was basically for us because there were no any campers. So, we were alone without any other human beings. The cabin had nice bed with beautiful, cozy, warm comforters. The cabin can actually accommodate 4 people. They have 2 extra cots.
We had our own camping gear, although, the pavilion had emergency items available. We were glad to take our own propane gas stove (our first time with propane gas stove). It was very convenient and easy. However, we did not really have to use stove because grill was made available by the owner. In addition, fire pit was available with hanging grill. We utilized all because the place had plenty of firewood. The whole forest had tons of firewood available. It rained for two days. But, it was precious because we could still cook and stay warm by lighting the fire. As it rained, the little creek in front of the cabin started to flow at bigger force. It turned into a mini waterfall. We slept outside and inside with the sound of the water flowing. It was so relaxing!
As it stopped raining, we hiked from our cabin to the other side of the mountain where the Camp Chet office was located. The hike was about 2 miles. As we hiked up, we could see beautiful view of the forest and mountains. We did want to hike for the sunset view, however, we were also aware of the wild animals in the area. As we hiked up, we noticed several animal footprints- I think- was bob cat or Coyote print and deer prints as well. Some little ones and some big ones. Parents were probably teaching their kids to survive winter.
We did not have anything much to do in the cabin as we didn’t have power supply. However, we did not feel the need for electricity any way. We had battery operated lanterns and it worked fine. We engaged ourselves in cooking, eating, doing dishes by using the water from the nearest creek, and playing cards. I have played cards several times but experience was never like this time. I had never felt that good playing cards, cooking and staying near the firepit under the trees. One night I was on the chair feeling the warmth of the fire, slightly lied down against the chair, looked upwards and I could see that the sky was clear. I could see tiny stars twinkling and also two different planets that blinked. I told my husband how to differentiate between a star and a planet. As I looked up, I saw two shoot stars that night. And, I prayed. My husband was chopping some firewood for next day. I asked him if he was tired. And he replied “no, I like it.”
It wasn’t that cold at all inside the wooden cabin. They did provide propane heater, but we didn’t have to use at all. By 7 pm we were already inside our cozy bed because it would be dark by that time. We again used to talk and play cards. We got up by 7 am next morning. We are used to getting up at 5 am due to our work life. We always rushed to get up and get ready for work and leave on time. But, it was unusual experience at the cabin because even though we wanted to get up early, and tried to be productive, we could not. We realized that it was dark outside and it was better for us to stay inside. We did not miss our morning cell phone scrolling routine at all. We did not miss our TV time. We did not miss Wifi. We did not miss our fancy breakfast at all. All I could hear was that my husband telling me how rested he felt because he slept very well. I felt same way. I mean who gets so sleep in such environment with background music of the flowing creek.
It is so funny that one night my husband asked if he could play some music from the car. It was new years eve day. I said “okay”.But it was only “okay” because when I am in nature, I feel like playing music is disrespect to the nature. I don’t know if any one ever feels this way. I think it disturbs creatures. I think it dominates natural sounds coming from the forest. Anyways, he turned on the car and played music but he quickly turned it off. It was not worth it. It actually was more disturbing than soothing. I said, “there is nothing more soothing than listening to the creek sound, under the tree, listen to trees move”. We laughed.
We had our own drinking water but we did not fully want to use it for dish washing purposes. We went down to the creek and fetched some water for cleaning purposes. It felt amazing. We felt so connected to the nature, and I thanked it for welcoming us and letting us do what we were doing.
I have realized that these tiny little things make us happy. We were more happier than before. It was a simple life. There is hardwork but it is still therapeutic because hardwork is done being connected to the nature. I don’t know about you all but it gives me some power and some positive energy which is why I keep on telling everyone that God is nature and nature is God.
We are so glad that you are reading about our travels. Here’s another blog where we want to share with you about our travel experiences. Last month, we were on 11 hours road trip to Tennessee from Florida. Our road trip included several stops. Apart from stopping at boring rest areas, we stopped in the beautiful natural attractions as well. Two of the main highlights of our stops were Tallulah Falls and Mingo Falls.
Tallulah Falls
Tallulah falls is located in the Tallulah Gorge State Park in the Northern Georgia. The beautiful rolling hills led us to the entrance of the state park. The park had plenty of empty parking spaces. The park fee is $5. The park includes informative center which displays collection of Victorian era items and provides information about Victorian Tallulah.
The trails to the popular suspension bridge and Tallulah river starts behind the information center. The trails are properly marked by the numbers. We grabbed the map from the center which helped a lot.
The trails in the park skirt the rim of the Tallulah Gorge. There are various view lookout points which face the beautiful Tallulah gorge. The trails also descend to its floor touching Tallulah River. We walked a trail descending to the suspension bridge which spanned the incredible Tallulah river. Here is a tip: going down is easy, but climbing up the straight mountain is difficult. Make sure to carry enough water and snacks to munch. There are various resting spots in the trail. Stop by those spots to take a moment and enjoy the beauty.
Mingo falls
Mingo falls is located in the Northern board of North Carolina and Tennessee. Mingo falls is one the tallest water falls in the southern Appalachians. We stopped by the Mingo Falls to take a short hike and view this 120ft tall water fall. The fall is on the Cherokee Indian Reservation.
Here’s important information. GPS navigated us to the wrong area. However, we encountered the sign board that said “GPS BROUGHT YOU TO THE WRONG PLACE. NOT A WAY TO THE MINGO FALLS.” We were already in the middle of the country area, and didn’t have cell phone network to pull the map. Luckily, the truck drove by us, and we got a chance to ask the guy about the place. He guided us to make a u-turn, and we noticed another sign board leading us to the Mingo falls. It was only 5 minutes drive from that point. This is not our first time ending to the wrong location due to Wrong GPS navigation which is why we took everything easily, and didn’t panic.
Mingo falls can be visited for free of cost. The stairs to the falls are close to the park spaces. We also saw the creek next to the parking area. The spectacular Mingo falls is 0.4 miles hike. The hike includes stairs and moderate difficult trail.
As we hiked closer to the falls, we had a glimpse of a beautiful bridge spanning the creek. We walked up to the bridge and were blessed to view maginificant beautiful Mingo falls.
If you ever plan to go to the Great Smokey’s, don’t forget to stop by this beautiful natural attractions. We will write more about our trips. Keep on reading!
If you are back to our website and reading this, we are excited to share our adventures with YOU! What comes to your mind when you think about nature and national parks? Well, in mine comes hiking. We DID hike the great smoky mountains, but we also did something else. And, the first one was horseback riding in the lap of the great Smokey’s forest. We also did our first white water rafting!! We will be posting more about a road trip to the Great Smokey Mountains in upcoming posts. So keep on reading!!!
Horseback riding in the Great Smokies
Several businesses offer you horseback riding services. Some are outside the great smokies, and some are in the smoky ran by the national park itself. We thought of choosing the one inside the national park just so that we could enjoy the smoky at its best. There are several exotic viewpoints and places to visit and hike in the national park. And, one of the places to be at is Cades Cove. We did drive a beautiful scenic Cades cove loop, but we also wanted to be a little bit adventurous. This is why we chose horseback riding at Cades Cove Riding Stables, located in the Townsend area of Smokys. There is also Sugarlands Riding Stables located in the Gatlinburg area of Smokys offered by the national park. They don’t need customers to reserve in advance in both of these places.
We went to the riding stables straight and waited about 10 minutes for a group of 8 to gather. The cost is affordable, and the horses are well trained. The horses took us through the river to the mountains and brought us back to the stables. The one hour ride was thrilling. Horses stopped for their “potty” time at times! I know that’s so funny. Also, they stopped to eat favourite plants at times as well. However, the horse leader was pretty caught up with everyone to keep the rest of the horses on the track. You don’t have to have horseback riding experience to join this group. Horses are well trained, and the trainers teach you basic ways to maneuver horses before leaving for the ride.
Everyone in the group was quiet, which I don’t know whether is rare? But, that quietness was serene. We could hear clip-clop from the horses walking. The sound of the wind blowing the leaves of the tree was therapeutic. The green itself provided so much peace. We kept an eye for a black bear. We didn’t see one, BUT we could see other exotic birds. I could do this over and over!
White water rafting in the smokies
Our next adventure was our first white water rafting!! The rafting businesses usually come with other services such as zip lining as well. We did not have enough time for zip lining but, we never wanted to miss rafting. There are several white water rafting businesses around the Great Smokey Mountains and the Blue Ridge Mountains. We chose rafting in the Smokies at the Pigeon River. Here is a little information about this place. The reservation centre was located in Gatlinburg near 321 North, but the rafting preparation starts in Hartford, TN. You can probably reserve online as well—Reserve in advance through the website or by calling. We were lucky to get a spot on the same day. For the first time rafters, trust us, you don’t have to be a PRO. You don’t need to have swimming skills. They orient you at the centre, load everyone in their bus, and drive to the starting point of the Pigeon River. Remember that phones or any other valuable items are not allowed during rafting. So here comes the question! HOW DO WE TAKE OUR PICTURES? Right! That’s we went through the same thought process as well. The staff took our pictures after we were on a raft. And, we had to buy our photos from them. The digital images were expensive. But, GUESS WHAT? Our rafters decided to divide the money among ourselves, and one of us bought the pictures and airdropped them to all others.
White water rafting was a thrilling experience. Our coach was very experienced. She was inspiring in the sense that she is also a glass artist. There is a secret place at the Pigeon River where she has been working on her glass art. We wish we could post a picture here. But, unfortunately, we were not allowed to take our phones, so I don’t have that picture. Our group did a pretty good job rafting. We didn’t fall. We had so much fun!!
Hiking in the Great Smokies
How can I miss talking about hiking? Oh! We loved hiking at the Great Smokies. There are several hiking trails. But, the one I am sharing is about Alum Cave Trail to Mt Laconte. Alum Cave Trail begins with Alum Cave Creek. The creek is beautiful. The sounds of the creek while climbing up just made it so much easier. There are locations where anyone could stop and rest near the water. I could sleep there! The moment anyone realizes that they do not hear the water sounds anymore, they have climbed higher by now. The trail is 2.7 miles long. By the time we get done with half portion of the trail, we can start seeing the scenic beauty of the smokies.
We did not go to Mt. Laconte, but we made it to the top of the Alum Cave Trail. The endpoint is like a big cave. I could feel the water drops falling from the roof of the rocky mountain. The trail was pretty busy. Mount Laconte was an hour walk from this point. Due to time constraints, we thought of returning. But, talk about feeling good. We munched our snacks, enjoying the view! That’s so rewarding. Stick around to read more about our travels!!
We decided to stop by Fort Gadsden while returning back from our trip to St George Island. Fort Gadsden is located in the Apalachicola National Forest. This fort is quite deep in the forest.
If you google search for places to visit in the Florida panhandle, you would probably not get Fort Gadsden listed. At least, we did not. We got to learn about Fort Gadsden in one of our travel guide books published by travel journalists. It is effortless to miss the road to this fort. We found a brown sign that said, Fort Gadsden. We just followed it. Deep in the forest, the road was unpaved. On top of that, it was a rainy day. My husband doubted if our sedan would be able to drive on all the thick dirt. We kept on moving, and nothing to be seen. There was no service on our cell phones because we were so deep in the forest. The white truck driving in the opposite direction was the only vehicle on the dirt road. We stopped our car and asked the man about how far the fort was. He was a hunter. He informed us that it was only about a mile. He said that our car would be able to handle the dirt road.
Hopeful enough, we decided to move further. We thought we almost reached the fort, but in vain. We noticed the signs that warned hunters to keep their weapons away from the residences there. Well, we only saw a couple of houses. At a point, I thought to stop and ask the resident. We saw the man in one of the houses who was doing dishes. We stopped our car but in a dilemma whether to proceed and ask him. My husband thought it was not safe to get out of the car as he could have firearms. We kept on following other signs with anxiety. We reached the park entrance, but the gate was closed. After driving all the bumpy roads, my husband was in huge disappointment and not ready to believe that the empty ground that we were seeing was a fort Gadsden. He didn’t want to give up yet. But, I pulled him away because the big “closed” sign at the shut gate said it all.
Fort Gadsden
Although Fort Gadsden was closed, here is what we know about this hidden historic landmark.
The fort is located on the eastern bank of the Apalachicola River, accessed by Highway 65. In 1812, British Royal Marine built the fort on recruiting Seminole Indians and escaped black slaves allies to fight against America. The fort was called British post. However, the British left the fort around 1815. The fort, now, was occupied by 300 escaped slaves and 30 Seminole and Choctaw Indians. Thus, the fort was known as the Negro Fort. The Negro Fort was a symbol of rebel and freedom from slavery. Seminole women, children, black families in Florida took refuge in the fort.
However, the U.S. Navy attacked the Negro Fort and left no trace. The American soldiers raided the surrounding settlements, burnt everything, and returned black families to the white slaveholders. The Indians were sentenced to death. The Americans continued the raid along the bank of the Apalachicola River for the next few years. James Gadsden, in 1818, built Fort Gadsden on the site where old Negro Fort was. The fort, a home, a place to fight for freedom for the black community was destroyed.
If you ever are travelling to Orlando, or Tampa, don’t forget to spend your day or two at Mount Dora. Mount Dora is a small town that will amaze you in many different ways. The town is located 92 miles north from Tampa. It is approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes drive from Tampa. Following are few things to see in Mount Dora.
Lake Dora
Lake Dora is not far from the downtown. Spend your morning or afternoon near the lake Dora. You can also take your picnic. Enjoy the sunset. Boat tours and beautiful nature trails are available on site.
Lake Dora, Mount Dora, Florida
Palm Island Park
If you are looking to spend your time watching birds and other animals such as alligators and raccoons, Palm Island Park is the place to stop by. The park has beautiful boardwalk on the lake Dora. You can also see Mount Dora Light House from the boardwalk.
Lake Dora, Mount Dora, Florida
Palm Island Park, Mount Dora, Florida
Mount Dora Light House
Mount Dora Light house is located in the Port of Mount Dora. The lighthouse is one of only 3 freshwater lighthouses in the state of Florida. It is about 35 feet tall. It was opened since 1988 and there is no access inside.Mount Dora Downtown: Downtown Mount Dora is a beautiful destination for a getaway in Central Florida. This vibrant downtown will surprise you with beautiful antique shops, museums, restaurants, hotels, and shopping stores. The downtown is not far from Lake Dora. Enjoy looking at the beautiful murals and old buildings in the downtown.
Mount Dora Lighthouse, Mount Dora, Florida
Port of Mount Dora, Mount Dora, Florida
Mount Dora Lighthouse, Mount Dora, Florida
Mount Dora Lighthouse, Mount Dora, Florida
Mount Dora Downtown
Downtown Mount Dora is a beautiful destination for a getaway in Central Florida. The vibrant downtown has antique shops, museums, restaurants, hotels other shopping stores. Stroll around the downtown to look at murals, old buildings, beautiful arts that exist in the corner of the downtown. Downtown is not far from lake Dora.
Mount Dora Downtown, Mount Dora, Florida
Mount Dora Downtown, Mount Dora, Florida
Mount Dora Downtown, Mount Dora, Florida
Mount Dora Downtown, Mount Dora, Florida
Mount Dora Downtown, Mount Dora, Florida
Mount Dora Downtown, Mount Dora, Florida
Mount Dora Downtown, Mount Dora, Florida
Mount Dora Downtown, Mount Dora, Florida
Mount Dora Downtown, Mount Dora, Florida
Mount Dora Downtown, Mount Dora, Florida
Mount Dora Downtown, Mount Dora, Florida
The Donelly’s House
Don’t miss out on visiting Mr. Donelly’s house. John. Donelly’s house who is one of the founders of the local yacht club. He is also Mount dora’s first mayor in 1910. This house is owned by mount dora lodge now.He built this house as a gift to his wife. It is listed in national register of the historic places.
The Donelly’s House, Mount Dora, Florida
The Donelly’s House, Mount Dora, Florida
Mount Dora Chamber of Commerce
The first place to visit to get information about Mount Dora is the chamber of commerce. Located in the heart of Mount Dora downtown, the visitors center has staffs dedicated to assist you in making your visit easier. Stop by the visitors center to grab maps and other Mount Dora travel guides.
Saint Augustine is the oldest city in the U.S., located in the northeast coast of the Florida. The beautiful city of St. Augustine is famous for it’s beautiful beaches, and Spanish architecture. The city was regarded as the capital city of Florida.
Learn more about the city by visiting following historic and natural landmarks. Click on the listed links to learn more about these attractions.
Lightner Museum
The museum is located in the downtown Saint Augustine inside the Ponce de Leon Hotel. Enjoy the museum and the beautiful 19th century era building. Learn more about the museum here
Flagler College
Plan to visit Flagler College when you visit Saint Augustine downtown. Flagler college’s beautiful wall and ceiling arts will keep your jaws wide. Click here to learn more!
Castillo de San Marcos
The Castillo de San Marcos is masonry fort located on the shore of Matanzas Bay. The fort is oldest and in the western area of the bay. Designed by the Spanish engineer Ignacio Daza, when Florida was part of the Spanish empire. Learn more about the fort by clicking here
Alligator Farm
Don’t miss on visiting the Alligator Farm if you are interested in learning about alligators, and other few bird species. Watch park rangers feed the alligators. Also, if you are looking to be little adventurous, try their zip line over zoo. For more information click here
Villa Zoyrada Museum
It’s worth to visit Villa Zoyrada if you are interested to learn about Egyptian ancient history or American. The museum has the world’s oldest carpet made out of cat fur. The carpet was found in the bank of Nile river in Egypt. You are not allowed to take photos inside the museum. Enjoy learning peculiar history. Click here for more!
Riley’s Believe it or not
It is clear that this place has unbelievable collection of items from ancient and modern times that will keep you shocked. The museum is kids friendly. From wax replica of the world’s tallest man to the world’s smallest production car, the museum has tons of oddities to offer you. For more information click here
Florida panhandle has a variety to offer you from beaches to gardens, antiques, sinkholes, canopy roads and blue springs. We planned a 7-day backroads trip from Largo. Our first stop was Tallahassee itself using route 580. It took approximately 5 hours. However, this route has beautiful sceneries to offer instead of I-75. We stopped at Cedar Key for 2 hours on our way. Cedar Key is a little historic town, suitable for a getaway.
We stayed overnight at a little cottage in Goat House Farm near Lake Talquin in Tallahassee.
Lake Talquin State Park
On the other side of the cottage exists Lake Talquin State Park. If you are looking for a place to sit down, gaze at the lake and meditate, you should choose this state park. The park had only a few visitors. It’s the right place for fishing, walking trails and launching your private rentals
Edward Ball Wakulla Springs
Only 35 minutes away is Wakulla Springs. It is the world’s largest and deepest freshwater spring. A lot of children played in the less deep area of the spring. The spring provides cruise services to the visitors who are willing to enjoy the boat tours.
Wakulla springs also have trails for the hiking in the woods. The forest has self-guided trails as well. If you are looking to stay closer to the springs, Wakulla offers lodge on its own premises. The beautiful Spanish style building has a cafeteria and gift shop in the same building.
The Forgotten Coast– Apalachicola, Saint George Island
Apalachicola– You did not really travel panhandle if you missed the forgotten Coast. Apalachicola, the oyster capital of the world, has sweetest oysters to offer you. The maritime culture of this town provides fresh seafood and several areas for fishing. This little town does not have plenty of parking spaces. While you walk the city, definitely visit the visitors centre. If you can, find the place for Tupelo honey. Spend time tasting chocolates in the chocolate factory and stroll the town’s various souvenir stores.
Saint George Island-Only 7min drive from Apalachicola is a connecting place called Eastpoint. Do not miss to visit Saint George Island, which is only 15minutes drive. Visit historic Saint George Lighthouse. Stop at the museum in the lighthouse before you start climbing the stairs of the lighthouse. Once you reach the top, enjoy the view of the beautiful Apalachicola Bay. Saint George Island has beautiful beaches to offer you.
The beach can be a bit crowded. However, if you want quiet private beach time of your own, visit Saint George Island State Park which is about 15 mins drive from the lighthouse. On your way to the state park, enjoy watching the colourful buildings of the island.
Saint Marks Wildlife Refuge
About 45 minutes south from Wakulla Springs exists a hidden treasure of Florida Panhandle. Saint Marks Wildlife Refuge connects with the beautiful Apalachee Bay.The exotic marshlands of the refuge on a sunny day is a piece of art by nature to enjoy.
If you plan to fish, the sanctuary offers varieties of spots to allow your fisherman spirit to come alive. The southernmost point of the refuge consists of historic Saint Marks Lighthouse that you should not miss out. It is the second oldest light station in Florida.
Torreya State Park, Florida Caverns State Park, Falling Waters State Park
North to Tallahassee lies beautiful state parks. If you are looking to experience the Florida mountains view, falling waters, lakes and hike, state parks won’t go wrong. Located in Bristol, Torreya State Park is a natural landmark and historic cite. The state park named after Florida nutmeg tree (Torreya), the tree only found in California, Florida and Japan, stands next to the Apalachicola River. The park is famous for Gregory house (plantation house). The state park offers plenty of beautiful area for hiking. We hiked down to the Apalachicola river from the Gregory house.
Falling waters state park offers you a beautiful 70-foot tall waterfall. The rainy season is the best time to visit the park. The surface water flows to the stream and cascades before disappearing into a cave when the water level is high. The turtle lake is a good icing on the cake in the park. There are several picnic tables available near the lake.
High waters in Falling waters
Falling waters board walk
Falling waters state park
Turtle neck at Falling Waters
Gregory’s House at Torreya State
Gregory house
Panama City
Stroll at the Panama city beach market before you get ready to enjoy the sands of the beach itself. Enjoy the shops before the pier park entrance. The Panama city beach pier park charges you a small fee to let you enter the large fishing pier. As you return, enjoy coffee, soft and hard drinks in the beautiful cottage shops near the beach.
A 3-4 day road trip from Clearwater to Keywest can give you a wholesome different experience of a roadtrip if it is done in a planned manner.
Day 1:
Start driving at 7:00 am. Take I-275 and then connect to I-75 to get to fort Myers. Visit Edison and ford winter Estates. Spend at least two hours there as it has a lot to offer.
From there drive to Naples for about 1 hour 15 minutes to explore Cork screw swamp Sanctuary, a very pristine and balmy nature walk on the boardwalk trail with various exotic birds to watch along the way. having a binoculars is an advantage.
End your day with a stay at Marathon. various availability of motels within your budgets.
note: you can make a stop at Ringling museum and allocate at least about 3 hours for it before you head straight to Fort Myers if you can hit off the road little early at around 7:30 in the morning.
Day 2:
Enjoy the Marathon beach.
Also, you can explore few of the below activities of your interest as time permits before you can head to key west to spend a night there.
A Deep Blue Dive Center
Brutus Seafood Market & Eatery
Catch ‘Em All
Cocos Boat Rentals
Crane Point Museum, Nature Center and Historic Site
Curry Hammock State Park
Dolphin Research Center
Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters
Florida Keys Kiteboarding
Day 3:
The most exciting day of the trip. You can cover all of the following attractions in one day.
Hemmingway House
Fort Zachary Taylor state Park
CGC Ingham Museum
Mallory Square
Southernmost point buoy
Day 4:
Stop at Everglades National Park and try out activities such as bike ride in Shark valley, boat tour, kayaking/canoeing, hiking trails.
Panda Backpack 