Hiking at Shell Mound... Near Cedar Key, Florida

Part of the Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge

Located 14 miles north of Cedar Key, FL, Shell Mound is part of the Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge. Built up by native inhabitants of the Middle Archaic to Woodland Periods between 1,800 and 400 years ago, the Mound covers 5 acres and reaches an elevation of 28 feet - the largest on the central Gulf Coast. The area includes a hiking trail to the mound with nice views from the top. Nearby are an observation deck, boat ramp and campground (at Levy County Shell Mound Park). (Map link and photos below.)

Map Link...
Shell Mound

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Location: Leon County (Cedar Key)
End Points: On CR 326 (SW 78th Place), about 3 miles off CR 347
Mileage: 1/2 mile at Shell Mound, 1 mile at Dennis Creek Trail
Surface: Gravel, grass
Nearby points of interest: Cedar Key

Support and Advocacy:
Friends of the Lower Suwannee and Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuges

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Hiking at Shell Mound
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Hiking at Shell Mound... Comments and Photos

The Mound is limited to foot traffic only, an easy 1/2 mile (round-trip) hike with interpretative signs along the way. Near the boat ramp is a boardwalk to an observation deck/fishing pier (also, parking and a restroom). For a longer hike (one mile) is nearby Dennis Creek Trail (we have not visited this yet). Bring bug spray, the bugs can be aggressive, especially in the summer.