Lake Butler trail keeps Union's railroad line visible

Lake Butler has a trail story that is really a railroad story.

Florida State Parks lists a paved section of the Palatka-to-Lake Butler State Trail beginning at the Lake Butler trailhead in Union County. Visit Florida describes the larger corridor as an old rail line running toward Palatka. Pieces are open in sections.

Union County can feel small on a statewide map. The trail shows how a small county still sits inside bigger Florida travel patterns. First came rails. Then came roads. Now part of the old line is a public trail for bikes and walks.

It is also a good reminder that trails do not have to be wild to be interesting. Sometimes the story is in the straight line, the old rail bed, and the towns it connects.

Before going, check the current trail page for open segments, parking, surface details, restrooms, and weather. Do not assume the whole planned corridor is one finished ride. Treat the Lake Butler piece as a local window into a longer rail-trail idea.