Cherokee Sink USA
Cherokee Sink is a captivating freshwater spring and sink located in Wakulla County, Florida. This natural wonder is nestled within the expansive grounds of the Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park, adjacent to the renowned Wakulla Spring.
- Region: Florida
- Coordinates: 30.21287, -84.304449
- Depth: 80 ft
- Remarks:
- Type: Cave, Cavern, OW
The Enchanting Features of Cherokee Sink
The Astonishing Sink Landscape:
- Emerging Beauty: Cherokee Sink emerges from the lush foliage as a nearly circular pool, boasting a striking jade green hue.
- Sheer Sides: The sink is surrounded by imposing sides that can rise dramatically, ranging from three to thirty feet of vertical rock above the waterline.
- Local Traditions: For generations, locals have cherished Cherokee Sink, using footpaths and trails to reach the water’s edge. Here, they enjoy activities such as jumping, diving, and swinging from the surrounding trees and cliffs into the refreshing waters.
Dive into Cherokee Sink’s Depths
Exploring the Sink Depths:
- Depth Variations: The sink’s depth varies significantly, with a rapid increase from the water’s edge. In most areas, there are no footholds before reaching a depth of 40 feet, while the deepest point plunges to 80 feet.
- Visibility Challenges: Cherokee Sink’s depths pose visibility challenges, with an average of approximately 6 feet near the bottom, quickly dropping to zero as divers encounter debris. An extensive layer of silt blankets the entire sink bottom.
Life Below the Surface:
- Shallower Delights: Shallower depths offer a different underwater world, featuring large schools of minnows, brim, and small bass. The water is noticeably warmer in these sun-exposed areas.
- Glimpses of Life: Even in the sink’s depths, glimpses of life can be observed. Large freshwater eels move in and out of the rocky edges, occasionally stirred by passing divers, only to vanish into the mysterious darkness and suspended particles.
Cherokee Sink in Wakulla County offers a diverse underwater experience, from its scenic surface to its enigmatic depths, making it a remarkable destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers.
FAQ
Cherokee Sink varies in depth, with the water’s edge quickly dropping to 40 feet in most places. The deepest point reaches approximately 80 feet.
The water temperature in Cherokee Sink can vary, but it is typically cooler in the deeper areas, while shallower sections are noticeably warmer. Exact temperature ranges may change with the seasons.
Yes, Cherokee Sink is part of the Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park and is open to the public. Visitors can enjoy swimming and exploring the sink’s natural beauty while following park regulations for safety.
