The remnants of an ancient desert sea over 2.3 million years old cradle the abundance of lakes that decorate Florida’s Lake Wales Ridge. This expansive region stretches through the heart of East Central, West Central, and South Florida, proudly standing as the peninsula’s backbone. Once hidden beneath the waves, the Lake Wales Ridge emerged, revealing an ecological wonderland that remained isolated for eons, nurturing a diverse array of flora and fauna that evolved in splendid seclusion. Among the distinctive features of this unique landscape are the ‘sink’ lakes, born from collapsed sinkholes sculpted by the timeless dance between rainfall and limestone. These serene bodies of water, some dating back thousands of years, dot the narrow ridge, accompanied by larger lakes like the illustrious Crooked Lake, Lake June in Winter, and Lake Kissimmee. These bodies of water, sustained by the underlying aquifer, serve as havens for leisure, fishing, and relaxation for locals and visitors alike. As the Lake Wales Ridge meanders southward, boasting a desert environment and standing as Florida’s highest point, its sandy terrain supports the renowned Florida ‘scrub’ ecosystem, a sanctuary for unique plant and animal species that thrive exclusively in this habitat. Off the ridge, the lush tropical climate nurtures citrus groves, ranches, and flourishing cities, offering a stark contrast to the arid expanse of the ridge. Crooked Lake, a jewel among the larger lakes along the ridge, is tucked in the embrace of farmlands and residential communities. Its waters once thought to span thousands of acres, have now been measured more modestly yet still retain their grandeur and significance. With a reputation for offering exceptional bass fishing and pristine water quality, Crooked Lake beckons anglers and nature enthusiasts to its shores, promising a peaceful retreat amidst wetlands and sandy beaches. Nestled at the southern reaches of Crooked Lake, the Crooked Lake Prairie Preserve unfurls a tapestry of walking trails through dunes, hills, and grasslands. Adventurers are welcome to explore the nearby Walk-In-The-Water section of the Lake Wales Ridge State Forest, which looks into the region’s rich biodiversity through its forested paths and wildlife havens scattered across the landscape. Despite human alterations that have reshaped much of the Lake Wales Ridge over the past century, conservation efforts are on the rise to safeguard this unique habitat and its inhabitants. From the elusive scrub jay to the legless sand skink, a treasure trove of rare and endangered species find refuge in the protected lands of the Lake Wales Ridge, drawing attention to the delicate balance of nature that thrives in this ancient ecosystem. Whether seeking a tranquil lakeside retreat or an adventurous exploration of the scrublands, the Lake Wales Ridge beckons with its timeless beauty and ecological wonders, inviting visitors to discover the enchanting allure of life on the lakes.
