These springs lie from one to two miles from the route and have entrance fees. All have spectacular crystalline, blue water bubbling from underground caverns and feed the Santa Fe River with 72 degree pure water year round. From the Santa Fe springs region, the route continues westward over Wacasassa Flats, identifiable by all the cypress stands, swamp gums and very flat terrain. Continuing south, the route touches the northwest corner of Chiefland, then heads west to Manatee Springs State Park. The first magnitude spring at the park is a delight as is the boardwalk to the Suwannee River lookout where occasionally manatees can be seen.
Most miles are over rural roads.
Exceptions include the first 7 miles south from O'Leno State Park to High Springs which are on US 441. The highway has a shoulder for most of the distance. Use extra caution crossing the bridge over the Santa Fe River and riding the last miles into town, as the shoulder disappears. Watch for interpretative signs. One mile of unpaved road is included on the route to avoid a longer distance on the very narrow and busy SR 26, east of the town of Fanning Springs.