Scenic Driving Tour

East of the Gulf and West of the River . . .
Is a land rich in history and beauty of nature.

Journey to the southwest corner of Hernando County and encounter Aripeka, a picturesque fishing village, two bridges long, with plenty of standing room for fishing and admiring those deep orange sunsets. Take a scenic drive on highway 597 north through Hernando Beach where the sawgrass sweeps out to the horizon. For a really spectacular sight, climb the tower at Hernando Beach Park where you will overlook Jenkins Creek as it flows through the expansive salt marsh into the gulf and beyond.

Further up the coastal road you will cross the Weeki Wachee River. Swim in the cool waters of this spring fed river at Rogers Park, or paddle a canoe and explore the crystal waters for a glimpse of a manatee or other wildlife inhabitant of this territory.

Reaching the intersection of 550 you can choose to go west, out to the beach at Pine Island or the fishing pier at Bayport, both excellent locations to view our spectacular Florida sunsets.

Or, travel east where enchanting mermaids entertain in the depths of the world famous Weeki Wachee Spring.

The community of Spring Hill borders the crossroads of US 19 and SR 50. With plenty of parks, golf courses, restaurants, accommodations and shopping, you will find all the urban comforts here.

However if you are searching for a more rustic experience, head 7 miles south to the crossroads of US 19 and highway 595 to the 6,000 acre Weeki Wachee Preserve where black bears roam and eagles call home. Where 5 1/2 miles of multi-use marked trails for bicyclists and another 4.3 trails designated for hiking. 7 deep water rock-quarry lakes available for fishing. For canoes, kayaks and rowboats.

Heading east on SR 50 leads you into the charming town of Brooksville. Under spreading oaks enjoy a walk admiring the century old homes and historic courthouse. The Historical Museum displays photos and artifacts from Florida’s colorful past. Or, spend time browsing through the specialty and antique shops near the heart of town. In Brooksville you can celebrate Christmas anytime of year when you visit the cottages at Roger’s Christmas House. Linger a little longer and enjoy a cup of tea and something sweet at one of the neighboring restaurants.

As you leave Brooksville to the north on US 41 you will find two of the most beautiful lakes in Hernando County. McKethan Lake with its splendid live oak trees and park facilities is the ideal picnic site for two or two hundred, while Lake Lindsey with its boat ramp is very popular with the small boaters and fresh-water fishermen and fisherwomen.

At the junction of US 41 and Highway 476 a turn to the east leads you into the small town of Nobleton, at the edge of the Withlacoochee State Forest. Gently flowing through this dense Florida forest is the famous Withlacoochee River, a favorite among Florida’s river connoisseurs.

Eerie, yet beautiful reflections are a sight to behold as the slowly flowing river mirrors towering cypress trees and wild fauna . .. reflections broken by oddly shaped cypress knees jutting randomly from the dark tannic waters.

The Withlacooche State Forest covers the eastern part of Hernando County. Here visitors and natives enjoy a variety of outdoor recreation. There are horse trails for equestrians, while hikers have their nature trails, and ATV and dirt bikers have trails too, all well maintained for your pleasure. Camping sites are provided at various locations throughout the county including the scenic Silver Lake Recreation Area.

From the rolling hills of eastern and central Hernando County, with its forests and lakes – to the salt waters of the gulf of Mexico teeming with world class sport fishing - your visit to Hernando County is a journey to be enjoyed not just once…but an adventure to be experienced again and again.