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Are you looking to discover some of the more hidden parts of Gainesville, Florida? Then I am sure you will love a trip to Devil’s Millhopper. If you are ready to find out something new, have an archaeological look into the past, take a peaceful walk around beautiful surroundings and unwind then this geological site is just for you.

This article will give you a sneak peek into some of Gainesville’s most untouched rainforest and will also tell the tale of the history that is locked within it. The article will go on to explain how the sinkhole was formed, including the long-standing myth and the scientific version of the story. I will also show you some of the things you can learn at the sinkhole and give you some pointers as to how you can get the most out of your trip to the national park. Everything you need to get in the know about the rainforest before visiting. Ready? Let’s get started!

How The Sinkhole Was Formed

If you are planning a trip to the Devil’s Millhopper, you will not want to pass on the opportunity to peer into the historical sinkhole on site. It was originally believed that the sinkhole was formed because the Devil captured a native American princess and created the sinkhole in order to seize anyone who came to rescue her. But unfortunately, the true story as to how the sinkhole was formed is not quite as exciting. So, just how was the sinkhole formed?

A sinkhole is formed by a process called dissolution where limestone is gradually dissolved by acidic groundwater causing large cavities to form. Sinkholes form a depression in land surface, like what has resulted in Devil’s Millhopper in Gainesville. But this sinkhole is extra special because more than 100 feet of rock layers are exposed and ready to be explored, telling us a lot about Gainesville’s history.

Devil’s Millhopper, A Dog-Friendly Zone

If your family is anything like mine, everywhere you go, the dog goes too. So it is important to know when you are going out to a national park whether dogs will be allowed to enter, especially if you are planning to spend the whole day out of the house and don’t like the idea of keeping your dog cooped up inside.

If you are a dog lover I am sure you will be happy to know that dogs are welcome at Devil’s Millhopper, making a trip to the geological site a perfect day out for the whole family. Make sure to keep Spike on a no more than 6 foot handheld leash and stick to the trails and I am sure you will all enjoy the sights and wildlife spotting at the park.

Dogs are also allowed off the leash at Devil’s Millhopper, as long as they are not left so for periods extending 30 minutes. Also, don’t forget to pick up after your dog and keep him under control, that way everyone can enjoy their visit to Devil’s Millhopper.

Lots To Learn At The Sinkhole

Are you looking to learn something new or are searching for an interesting place to take the kids this vacation period? Then allow the Devil’s Millhopper sinkhole to make for the perfect day out for the whole family.

There is so much to learn and discover at the sinkhole, you can look at studies of shark teeth and shells and fossilized remains that teach us a bunch about Gainesville’s past. You can take a look at illustrative displays that will teach you about the lush vegetation, wildlife and the miniature rainforest found at the bottom of the sinkhole.

Make sure your little ones bring a notepad with them so that they can write down all of the exciting new facts they investigate and a camera so that they can document it all in pictures. I am sure they will be ecstatic to tell their teachers all of the interesting places they have visited during the holidays when classes start back again.

Make A Day Of It

There is so much to do at the Devil’s Millhopper geological site, so make sure you arrive early so that you can get as much done as possible. Use your time at the national park to take part in the following activities:

• Hiking – strap on your walking boots and hike across the grounds.
• Picnicking – park up under the shade of some of the national parks’ majestic trees to have a bite with family and friends.
• Wildlife viewing – catch a sighting of wildlife in its natural habitat. Don’t forget to snap a photo!
• Tours – the park holds guided tours with a ranger every Saturday morning. Make sure you get to the park at the weekend to be able to benefit from this special arrangement.