CALENDAR ANNOUNCEMENT

CONTACT: DEP Press Office, 850.245.2112, DEPNews@dep.state.fl.us

Sinkhole Boardwalk Reopens at Devil's Millhopper Geological State Park

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – The Florida Department of Environmental Protection's Florida Park Service will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday, June 14, celebrating the reopening of the sinkhole boardwalk at Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park. The boardwalk, which descends into a miniature rain forest, is now reopened for public use following the impacts of Hurricane Irma.

“We are excited to reopen the boardwalk to visitors,” Florida Park Service Director Eric Draper said. “Devil’s Millhopper is an incredible window into Florida’s natural history. The new boardwalk will provide a safe way for people to experience the park’s unique geology.”

Devil’s Millhopper is a 120-foot deep, cover-collapse sinkhole, and is unique because it is one of the few places in Florida where more than 100 feet of rock layers are exposed. The park is an example of how geological features affect the development of plant communities. Fossils are commonly seen in the limestone walls, and small streams are heard cascading into the sink. Visitors can enjoy picnicking and learn more about the sinkhole through interpretive displays. Devil’s Millhopper is open to the public Wednesday through Sunday.   

WHAT:            Devil’s Millhopper Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony

WHEN:           10 a.m., June 14, 2019

WHERE:         Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park

4732 Millhopper Road

Gainesville, FL 32653

All members of the public are welcome to attend.

About Florida State Parks, Greenways and Trails 

The Florida Park Service is the proud recipient of three National Gold Medals for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management, making Florida America’s first three-time Gold Medal winner. The awards were received in 1999, 2005 and 2013 from the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration and the National Recreation and Park Association.

Florida’s 175 state parks, trails and historic sites inspire residents and visitors with recreation opportunities and scenic beauty that help strengthen families, educate children, expand local economies and foster community pride. With nearly 800,000 acres, 100 miles of beaches and more than 1,500 miles of multi-use trails, residents and visitors should plan to visit soon and often to enjoy Florida’s natural treasures. Download the Florida State Parks Pocket Ranger® mobile app, available on iTunes and Android Market, to plan your trip and enhance your experience. For more information, visit www.FloridaStateParks.org.

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