See the USA: Progress is a matter of perception

July 29, 2009 - It's a pretty short trip from the Briars to Jacksonville, Florida; 165 miles... about 3 1/2 hours. That is... unless you're not in a real hurry to get there. I wasn't.

About a third of the way, I stopped in Silver Springs; not to be confused with my destination of Silver Spring (no s) up in Maryland. It's up near Ocala. I didn't stay long. Mostly I was doing some reconnaissance, for a return trip later... with my boat.

Silver Springs is a State Park area and home of a private park featuring glass bottom boat rides. It's also the site of the filming of many movies, including the old Seahunt tv series. To enjoy the view of the springs, I could pay $60 for a park pass, or launch my boat nearby and cruise in via free public access on the river. With the coordinates of a suitable boat launch typed into Magellan I scheduled a return trip to do some cruising, camping and snorkling at the springs on a future date. Only 50 miles from the Briars, it will make a nice day trip.

While there, I did take in the sights. It's a typically gorgeous Florida river setting, with an abundance of foliage and wildlife. Hiking roads meander through the wilderness. Summer tourist activity is pretty brisk, but I imagine when I return in February or March there will be fewer human visitors.

By mid afternoon I was on the road again... heading northeast by way of Hwy 301; a semi-backroad that connects with I-10 just west of Jacksonville. I stopped for a late lunch in Starke.

Starke is a small town, population just over 5000. Most work for the prison system. Starke is home to Florida State Prison and the site of Florida executions, including Ted Bundy, Aileen Wuornos and Danny Rolling. It's also a town famous for film. G.I Jane, Tigerland and What's Love Got To Do With It, were filmed in the area.

Jacksonville is a far cry from backroads Florida. It's nightlights (and night life) compete with most any Metropolis. I'm spending the night here and will head north on I-95 come sunrise.

In the photos... compare downtown Starke to downtown Jacksonville and it's like visiting two different worlds.

(Click on photo to enlarge)