Drives Florida Jacksonville, Gainesville and North Florida
William Bartram Scenic Highway
SR 13 · Julington Creek Bridge → Picolata
The drive
SR 13 follows the St. Johns River south from the Julington Creek Bridge, the Jacksonville end, through Switzerland and Orangedale to old Picolata. The designated William Bartram Scenic and Historic Highway runs about 17 miles; this drive carries on a few quieter miles to Picolata on the river.
The road is mostly two lanes, passing pine and palmetto, oak hammocks and stretches draped with Spanish moss, including centennial oaks. The river shows through in glimpses rather than in a long open view. It's flat and gentle, and the pleasure is the shade and the slow pace.
Along the way
- Julington Creek Bridge
- Switzerland
- Orangedale
- Picolata
Good to know
- Expect suburban traffic near Fruit Cove at the Jacksonville end.
- The drive runs a few miles beyond the 17-mile designated highway to Picolata.
Open all year, weather permitting. Roads close for snow, fire, storms and repairs: before you set off, check Florida 511.
Questions about this drive
How long does the William Bartram Scenic Highway take to drive?
The William Bartram Scenic Highway drive from Julington Creek Bridge to Picolata is 22.2 miles and takes about 35 min.
Where does the William Bartram Scenic Highway run?
It follows SR 13 along the St. Johns River from the Julington Creek Bridge south, a designated scenic road of about 17 miles.
Is the William Bartram Scenic Highway twisty?
No. It's a flat road with mostly gentle curves under live oaks.
What you get in the app
Free on iPhone and Android. CarPlay and Android Auto come with Apex.
More drives near here
Distance, time, elevation, curves and intensity are from Carve's route. Checked 2026-10-28.