When you think of a highest point in the United States, what comes to mind? Mt. McKinley in Alaska? Mt. Mitchell in North Carolina? What about Britton Hill? If you’ve never heard of Britton Hill, make sure you put it on your list of places to visit in Florida. Why? It just so happens to be the highest point in the Sunshine State.
Britton Hill is located at Lakewood Park just inside the state line that divides Walton County in Florida from Alabama. It got its name from a former lumber mill baron, William Henry Britton who developed the area in the early 1900s. The highest point is actually more of a plateau, about 900 feet by 400 feet. At a staggering 345 feet, this peak offers a beautiful view of the surrounding countryside and also carries the honor of being the lowest high point in the U.S.
A monument marking this dubious distinction sits steps from the parking lot. To get a glimpse of the monument or take a selfie next to it, you won’t even have to break a sweat. However, if you do find yourself short-winded, there is a bench by the monument so you can rest a little.
A few Florida comparisons
Just how high is 345 feet? If you are familiar with Florida “landmarks,” here are a few comparisons to consider:
- The Majesty Building (aka the I-4 Eye Sore) is 307 feet tall.
- The Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) at Kennedy Space Center is 525 feet.
- Chinsegut Hill in Hernando County, just north of Brooksville, is 269 feet.
A few U.S. comparisons
Mt. McKinley in Denali, Alaska is the highest point in the United States at 20,237 feet. Other “low” high points include:
- Delaware – Ebright Azimuth at 448 feet
- Louisiana – Driskell Mountain at 535 feet
- Mississippi – Woodall Mountain at 806 feet
- Rhode Island – Jerimoth Hill at 812 feet
While Britton Hill may not seem like a hiker’s dream, it is actually an internationally-known must-do peak. A group of mountain climbers known as the Highpointers Club, attempt to climb the highest point in each of the lower 48 states. So far, about 500 of them have achieved that feat – which includes “climbing” Britton Hill.
Other things to do
If the climb to the top doesn’t wear you out, there are hiking trails at the park which offer an easy walk through the small hardwood forest and are all less than a mile in length. Lakewood Park also offers a picnic area and a restroom.
How to get there
Britton Hill is located in the Florida panhandle. If you’re out driving, take Interstate 10 to Exit 85 – US 331/SR 83 toward DeFuniak Springs. Follow 331 to County Road 285. Turn north onto CR 285 and go about three miles. Britton Hill will be on the left.
Make sure to take your camera and document your climb!
No dogs on trails. Just to add to the can do spirit of this charmless spot.