Guided Wilderness Day Hike in South West Florida

Relax along a South West Florida Wilderness trail..

Take your family, a small group of friends, or yourself on a Private half day guided hike through Pine Uplands and Marsh habitats where Florida Black Bear, Bobcat and Panther still freely roam. Enjoy the therapeutic benefits of a relaxing 2 1/4 mile walk (approximately 4 hours max) through one of South West Florida's premiere 60,000 acre nature preserves. Hike through a variety of unique South West Florida habitats: Open pine flat woods, seasonal ponds the sawgrass marsh, and cooling popash slough. You will want to bring your camera along for photos of wildflowers — many found no where else due to the loss of their habitat in other areas.

Breathe in aromatic scents of Pine and Cypress, Water and Marsh as we explore the trail ahead. I stop at various points to talk about the habitat and wildflowers we see along our way which, since we are in a wilderness environment, can consist of just about anything that shows up! We will possibly see various animal sign possibly including scat, tracks and scrapes along our hike from various wildlife. (It is not uncommon to find Bobcat, Panther or Black Bear scat on trails.)
You may sign up for your hike for any day of the week, or for a Saturday or Sunday Hike. 

At the start of the trail we will go over our location's founding history and its importance to us and future generations as a protected Watershed. We will also discuss the importance of Fire and management of invasive plants and animals in South West Florida. You will have many opportunities to photograph some of the current seasons wildflowers, butterflies and possibly wildlife as we embark on an easy hike along wide, well marked trails.  Walks are at an easy pace, filled with information on native plants and wildlife and are meant to be a relaxing as well as educational experience exploring nature.

SUMMER WEATHER   There are no covered areas along the trail in case of rain.  Although our trips leave out early in the morning, by 8:30am EST it is still possible to get rained on over Summer or to wade some accumulated water on parts of the trails.  This excursion is in a true Wilderness Area.  The only restrooms available are located near the parking lot area and consist of well maintained Porta-potties.

What to bring Clothing for Wilderness trails that can also get wet if possible. Closed toed shoes — no sandals or flip flops, plenty of water, a hat, sunscreen, day pack or back pack, cameras or binoculars, a fully charged phone with your emergency contact number list, bug spray and sunscreen, a bag to stow your gear in, in case it rains. Snacks, and a garbage bag to pack your refuse out in as we practice leave no trace.

Medical conditions should be disclosed at time of registration. You should be in good physical condition to hike, to be on your feet for 2 1/4 miles. Hikers are expected to remain in the center of the trail and together at all times. 

Children must be accompanied and monitored by their parents at all times.  The quieter our group is, the more me may see and experience.  This hike is not suitable for babies or toddlers.

The trails are in Wilderness so it is imperative that we follow protocols in order to maintain control and safety for all, including wildlife.