West Trail Entrance and Solution Holes

Solution holes result from organic acids dissolving the surface limestone. When rainwater mixes with decomposing materials such as leaves, it creates a weak acidic solution that then erodes through the thin layer of soil, sand, and limestone. Solution holes are predominantly found in Tropical Hardwood Hammocks. During the wet season, these holes fill up with water and help protect hammock ecosystems from fires. While commonly found as natural formations, the solution holes located at the West Trail Entrance have been excavated by staff and volunteers to provide an educational example of a natural process.