Alfred A. Ring Park

Location: 1801 NW 23rd Boulevard—parking at Elks Lodge Over a mile of trails wind through upland mixed forest and slope forest, tracing the course of Hogtown Creek. A scenic overlook provides visitors a view of the confluence of Glen Springs Run and Hogtown Creek where the clear water from Glen Springs sharply contrasts with the tannin-stained waters of Hogtown Creek. Birds, grey squirrels and other urban wildlife are abundant in the park. Visitors may walk or jog the trails, picnic under the pavilion, romp in the playground, or rest on a quiet bench. Directions: Off NW 13th St. (N SR441), make a left onto NW 23rd Ave., follow around curve until you see the Elks Lodge Sign on your left with a Green Alfred A. Ring parks sign, turn into the Elks lodge and proceed to parking lot in rear for Ring Park. Hours: Park hours 8:00 am—6:00 pm daily (Nov.—Apr.); 8:00 am—8:00 pm daily (May—Oct.) Information: 352-393-8756 Natural Communities: Ring Park is 19 acres in size and contains three distinct Natural Communities. A system of nature trails and boardwalks leads visitors along Hogtown Creek and through Upland Mixed Forest. This Natural Community occurs throughout the park and is dominated by southern magnolia, pignut hickory, swamp chestnut oak, loblolly pine, and numerous other tree species. Glen Springs Run and Hogtown Creek are Seepage Streams. A small area of Slope Forest occurs along Glen Springs Run and contains several unique plants such as needle palm and jack-in-the-pulpit. Amenities: ADA compliant restrooms, covered picnic facilities, and nature trails, Emily S. Ring Wildflower Garden, small playground, bird blind, and bicycle parking. The Friends of Ring Park were founded in 1998 to serve as the not-for-profit support organization for the Emily S. Ring Wildflower Garden at Alfred A. Ring Park. Dogs are allowed on a leash, owners must clean up pet waste, doggy pots are available.