Boonie Falls is a hidden gem in the Central Florida area. Designated as the southernmost waterfall on the Florida Trail, it stands a mere 2 feet as it cascades down cypress tree roots along an offshoot of the Econlockhatchee River in Little Big Econ State Forest. Despite its short height, it's considered one of the tallest natural waterfalls in Florida, but it's definitely the shortest on this website!
Boonie Falls gets its name from a local trail maintenance worker known as the Boonie Man. I also believe it gets it from the fact that this waterfall is out in the boonies of Central Florida. Regardless, the quickest way to reach this quaint waterfall is via a 0.5-mile hike along the Flagler Trail Trailhead off of Lockwood Boulevard. However, the more popular entrance to the forest is at Barr Street Trailhead, where the day use fee signage is posted. From this trailhead, it's 1.9 miles to the falls.
Little Big Econ is a great area for scenic hikes and wildlife viewing. The forest includes habitats such as pine flatwoods, wet prairies, and oak-palm hammocks. It's also home to over 160 species of birds and other wildlife such as gopher tortoises, deer, and alligators. Be advised, however, that the area is relatively undeveloped, so there are no restrooms or water sources readily available.
Trailhead 1 Address: Flagler Trail Trailhead, Flagler Trail, Oviedo, FL 32765
Trailhead 2 Address: Little Big Econ Barr Street Trailhead, 951 Barr St, Oviedo, FL 32765
GPS Location: 28.6687° N, 81.1703° W
Parking: Roadside
Total Hike: 1 mile / 3.8 miles
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Admission: $2 (state forest fee payable at Barr Street Trailhead)
Open: Sunrise - Sunset
Swimming: N/A
Pets: Yes, with leash
Trailhead 2 Address: Little Big Econ Barr Street Trailhead, 951 Barr St, Oviedo, FL 32765
GPS Location: 28.6687° N, 81.1703° W
Parking: Roadside
Total Hike: 1 mile / 3.8 miles
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Admission: $2 (state forest fee payable at Barr Street Trailhead)
Open: Sunrise - Sunset
Swimming: N/A
Pets: Yes, with leash
