Devil's Millhopper

A 120-foot-deep, 500-foot-wide sinkhole that resembles a miniature rainforest. Named for the bones and fossils found at the bottom, which early settlers believed were fed to the devil through this natural funnel.

Devil's Millhopper is a 120-foot deep, 500-foot wide sinkhole designated a National Natural Landmark and Florida State Park, attracting tourists for over 100 years. The name comes from its grain hopper shape and the large number of animal bones and fossils discovered at the muddy bottom, leading people to believe beasts went down to meet the devil. The Timucua legend tells of a beautiful Indian princess the Devil wanted to marry. When she refused, he kidnapped her, and all the Indian braves gave chase. As they got closer, the Devil retreated to his portal and the braves fell in—he turned them to stone, explaining the prehistoric remains. Another version features Chief Potano's daughter Sicuri being stolen by the ancient demon Hiti, a cursed warrior. Religious folk adopted the story as a pit opened by the Devil to swallow sinners. Visitors have reported hearing screams from the depths, strange moaning sounds, and low growling and snarls. The devil has been seen at the bottom according to local tales. In 2019, new stairs of 132 steps replaced those destroyed by a hurricane, leading to a viewing platform at the bottom where visitors can see the bone-filled pond. Some visitors describe it as serene with nothing devilish about it, while others feel the weight of centuries of legend.