The Chinsegut Big Pine Tract is a part of the Chinsegut Wildlife and
Environmental Area. It covers 442 acres, and is managed by the Florida Fish
and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The area is home to one of the few
remaining old-growth long leaf pine forests left in Florida.
The main trailhead is
along the east side of Old Crystal River Road north of Brooksville. Facilities
at the trailhead include ample parking, a restroom, picnic tables, and an
information kiosk.
Hiking trails are well marked and maintained, and mostly shaded. Bicycles and dogs
are not permitted on the trails.
Two loop trails are available within the Big Pine Tract; the Tortoise Loop is
about 8/10 of a mile long, and the Longleaf Loop is 1.25 miles in length. The
short Hammock Trail will also take you through a hardwood hammock. The Burn's
Prairie Spur trail extends to the north for almost a half mile from the Longleaf
Loop.
The Prairie-to-Pines trail connects the Big Pines Tract
and the
Conservation Center Tract of Chinsegut WEA - for those who want to do a
grand tour on foot. It's south terminus is along the Hammock Trail, and it
extends north for 1.8 miles to join the trail system in the conservation Center
Tract. The historic State Road 5 bridge can be seen along this route.
Activities & Facilities
Picnic shelter
Short hiking trails
Long hiking trails