Clear Kayak Tours at Gilchrist Blue with Get Up and Go Kayaking - Gainesville

Clear Kayak Tours at Gilchrist Blue with Get Up and Go Kayaking

Gainesvilleeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–3 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for beginners and those with moderate fitness; requires the ability to paddle gently and balance in a kayak.

Overview

Glide over the crystal-clear waters of Gilchrist Blue Springs on a unique glass-bottom kayak tour guided by Get Up and Go Kayaking. Witness underwater wildlife up close while soaking in the serene Florida spring environment.

Details

Gilchrist Blue Springs, located just outside Fort White, Florida, offers a refreshing escape into some of the clearest waters in the Sunshine State. Known for its pristine, glassy springs, Gilchrist Blue invites paddlers to glide silently through cool, 72-degree waters that reveal an underwater world vibrant with life. Get Up and Go Kayaking - Gilchrist Blue specializes in guided glass-bottom kayak tours that put you literally above the stunning aquatic scenery, revealing fish, turtles, and even baby alligators in their natural habitats without disrupting their space.

The tours here move at an unhurried pace, making them suitable for families and paddlers of varying skill levels. Guides Jeremy and Bry bring deep knowledge of the local ecosystem and lend a patient, approachable presence that enriches the experience. From spotting diverse bird species overhead to hiking among towering cypress trees during breaks on shore, this adventure provides a balanced mix of water time and land exploration.

What sets this tour apart is the combination of accessible clear-bottom kayaks and expert commentaries that unveil stories of Florida’s springs, emphasizing their ecological importance. Unlike crowded commercial tours, Get Up and Go Kayaking focuses on small groups that prioritize connection with the environment while respecting the delicate balance of this unique habitat.

For travelers interested in Florida’s wild side beyond the beach, Gilchrist Blue Springs offers a chance to witness one of the state’s most vibrant freshwater ecosystems in a way that’s educational, peaceful, and visually captivating. It’s a day on the water that combines outdoor recreation with a real appreciation for aquatic life, making it a standout destination in the region’s outdoor adventure offerings.

Adventure Tips

Bring Water Shoes

The launch area can be rocky and slippery, so appropriate footwear will protect your feet while entering and exiting the water.

Apply Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Protect your skin without harming the delicate spring flora and fauna by using biodegradable, reef-safe sunscreen before your trip.

Use a Dry Bag

Keep your camera, phone, and personal items secure and dry for undisturbed kayaking and photo opportunities.

Stay Hydrated Before and After

The mild Florida sun can dehydrate you quickly; bringing water for before and after the tour ensures you stay refreshed.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • The quiet cypress-lined side channels for serene paddling
  • Small hiking trails around the spring that reveal old-growth trees

Wildlife

  • Freshwater turtles basking on logs
  • Various species of wading and migratory birds

History

Gilchrist Blue Springs is part of Florida’s extensive spring system, valued historically for its clear waters and biodiversity.

Conservation

Get Up and Go Kayaking emphasizes low-impact access, encouraging guests to respect fragile spring ecosystems and minimize disturbance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Early morning
Late afternoon for soft light
Overcast days for even lighting

Best Viewpoints

  • From the clear-bottom kayak looking down into the spring
  • Along the hiking trail overlooking the cypress
  • At shaded riverbank edges with wildlife activity

What to Photograph

Aquatic life beneath the kayak
Tall cypress trees with hanging moss
Reflections on the calm spring water

Recommended Gear

Clear-Bottom Kayak

Essential

Provides exceptional views of underwater life and enhances the overall kayaking experience.

Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Essential

Protects your skin while preserving the natural ecosystem of the springs.

summer|spring|fall specific

Hat with Brim

Offers shade for your face and neck during open water paddling under the sun.

summer|spring|fall specific

Water Shoes

Essential

Protect your feet on rocky entrances and exits and provide traction in wet areas.