The Power of Turkey Creek

There's a nice walking spot just off 85 in Niceville called Turkey Creek.

Though creek is in the name, Michelle and I first expected the path to be just a regular walking path through the woods and maybe at some point thought we'd see this creek. This is because park names are usually very beautiful and only to a poet reflect what you actually see out there.

But this little park is fairly unique. The path is about 3/4 mile long, entirely above ground the whole way. Water is visible at all times, a combination of swamp-type stuff and mostly-clear creek, flowing eventually to the bay.

When the weather's warm, the decomposing leaves and twigs in the swampish parts color the water a reddish-brown with their tannins. Think tea.

Today, it was cold out and the water has cleared considerably as the decomposition has slowed. The water was a clear-green.

The trail has water-level observation decks that you walk down to via the stairs. You can see the bottom of the creek in most places, maybe 3 or 4 feet down. It's like an underground beach, as white sands line the bottom of the creek.

At the end of the trail there's a canoe launch, which would be fun. There's also an offshoot path that takes you into a children's memorial.