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Wonder
Cherokee Sink
In short
The beautiful Cherokee sinkhole has been a silent witness of neglect by people, who have used it for swimming and… littered it with garbage. Happily the attitude towards the sinkhole is improving lately.
36.8%
GPS coordinates
Location, address
Depth
Map of the site
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In detail
Cherokee Sink is a rounded jade green pool, 90 by 50 m large, surrounded by 0.5 – 9 m high cliffs. It has steep sides under the water as well and is up to 24.4 m deep. The sinkhole was formed by a collapse of the cave chamber and most likely was considerably deeper in the past.
Lake is teeming with life – here live diverse fishes. Deeper sediments contain evidence of extinct animals: a tooth of a sabertooth tiger has been found here.
For generations this lake has been a beloved place for swimming. Unfortunately, the lake has been used as an enormous waste deposit – on the bottom one can find countless bottles and cans, even motorcycles and home appliances. Next to the sinkhole is a cemetery, established in 1850. In the late 1970s, the gravestones from this cemetery were thrown in the sinkhole as well. The bottom is silted and the visibility in the water is poor. Lately, it has been prohibited to swim here due to the algal blooms. Also, the vegetation around the lake has been degraded by countless trails.
Lake with the surrounding forest was acquired by the state in 1999 and added to Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park. While there is ongoing fundraising for proper cleaning, some divers are gradually cleaning it already.
Groundwater analysis shows that Cherokee Sink is connected to Wakulla Spring and is a part of the longest underwater cave system in United States – the 72.1 km long Wakulla Cave System. The actual passages have not been found yet and Wakulla Cave System is bypassing Cherokee Sink just 100 m from it.
Linked articles
Wonders of Florida
Florida is the tropical paradise of the mainland United States. Over the last century, it has experienced fabulous changes, turning from a forgotten, swampy badland into a densely populated and rich land. Highlights of Florida include the architecture of the late 19th and 20th centuries as well as its giant springs and caves.
Sinkholes
This category includes outstanding sinkholes – large natural depressions or holes, which for most the part represent collapsed caves.
Lakes and streams
There are many factors that can make lakes, sea bays, or rivers unusual. Some lakes have unusual chemical properties and even do not contain water at all – such as lava lakes. Others may have unusual animals living in them or… legends about such animals.
Recommended books
Touring the Springs of Florida
Highlighting the finest cold springs in the state, Touring the Springs of Florida features full-color photos and in-depth descriptions for each of the springs and surrounding areas. Detailed maps, GPS coordinates, and thorough driving directions lead you every step of the way. Whether you’re tubing, swimming, snorkeling, paddling, hiking, diving, or simply sightseeing, there’s a spring for you.
Florida Natural Wonders: 101 Slices Of Heaven That You Can’t Miss When Visiting Florida
Are You Ready for a Breathtaking Experience Through the Heart of Florida, Exploring Its Most Famous Wonders and Attractions?
If you want a guide that will help you find the most beautiful spots in this gorgeous state, then keep reading because this is the book you were looking for!