North of Tallahassee, Florida, there is a remnant of the territorial era which remains as a link to a time now long past. Meridian Road once extended from the state’s prime meridian in the capital north to the Georgia state line.
Now designated as County Road 155, this canopy road still has many stretches where live oak trees support long strands of Spanish moss. Established in 1824, the relatively straight and flat route cuts through hills with little regard for the narrow passages and steep ditches alongside the well travelled asphalt.
Originally an important transportation corridor for agricultural products, it was even used as a path for the arriving Union Army in 1865.
Today it is lined with multiple subdivisions’ entrances, a few businesses and churches, and undeveloped real estate as the road proceeds towards Georgia. Travelers from the mid-nineteenth century would likely not recognize the once commercially important road which was critical to early development of the area.
A contemporary connection to Florida’s past is seen through three side roads which lead to boat landings. Each takes a twisting route to one of Leon County’s lakes.
Rhoden Cove Road, Miller Landing Road and Cedar Hill Road all terminate with boat landings. Rhoden Cove and Miller Landing provide access to Lake Jackson, and Cedar Hill ends at Carr Lake.
Native lily pads bloom during the heat of the summer. Bright yellow blooms make a striking contrast to the green foliage and the dark water. 
While utilized by native pollinators, water hyacinth is an invasive plant. If left uncontrolled, it will push out native species. 
Lily pads offer an excellent landing site for dragonflies. The native insect’s larva is a voracious consumer of mosquito larva and a welcome visitor. 
Ease of access make the local lakes a good spot for boating. That ease along with proximity to Tallahassee and I-10 make these popular recreation venues. 
Fishing in the lakes has been a long popular sport. On the shore or in a boat, everyone is welcome to try their luck.
Each of these landings have paved launching areas, but depending on the water level the pavement may run out before the water begins. Rhoden Cove’s landing consistently offers the deepest water for boats with inboard or outboard engines.
Canoes, kayaks and johnboats should should be able to launch from any of the landings if they can be carried to the water’s edge.
Each of the landings have less than 10 parking spaces for vehicles with trailers. There is currently no fee for parking or launching.
What to Expect
All the launch sites are north of I-10 off Meridian Road. Each is indicated by county maintained signage on Meridian Road. It is a short trip from the center of Tallahassee to a natural area with a variety of native plants and animals.
There are no commercial or sanitary facilities at the launch sites. The nearest available food, fuel or restrooms will require a return to Thomasville Road, which is east of Meridian Road.
Each of the sites offer excellent bird watching opportunities, depending on the season. Additionally, native plants bloom during much of the warm season.
Unfortunately, there are invasive water plants present. Check boats and equipment to be sure not to spread these problem plants.
Meridian Road banner: The expanse of north Leon County lakes offer a quick trip back in time while remaining close to civilization in Tallahassee.
Tags: Lakes, Recreation Area, Boating, Bird Watching
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