Hernández–Capron Trail, Historic hiking trail in Volusia County, Florida.
The Hernández-Capron Trail is a hiking route in Volusia County that runs roughly 200 miles from New Smyrna south to Fort Pierce. The path passes through forests, wetlands, and open ridgelines that characterize Florida's interior regions.
This path developed in the 1800s as one of the first road connections between St. Augustine and the Fort Pierce area in Florida Territory. It became strategically important during military operations in the Seminole Wars.
The route bears the name of Joseph Marion Hernández, the first congressional delegate from Florida Territory, who established this path through Atlantic Coastal Ridge.
Hikers should carry plenty of water, wear sturdy footwear, and bring sun protection since much of the route crosses open or partially exposed terrain. It is wise to check weather forecasts ahead of time and allow for breaks when covering longer sections.
The route cuts through alternating sections of untouched wilderness and developed areas, creating an unusual mix of raw nature and signs of human settlement. This interplay between different environments makes it a surprisingly revealing journey through modern Florida.
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