trail trekking in southwest florida! 🌳
hi friends! today, I’m thrilled to take you on a virtual tour of some of my favorite trails in Southwest Florida. whether you're a seasoned hiker or just someone who loves to venture out in nature, these local trails offer a perfect escape without making you feel like you’re on Survivor 😬 today I’ll share about Estero Bay Preserve State Park, Lakes Park, Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, and Koreshan State Park!
first up is Estero Bay Preserve State Park, a gem that I found about 15 minutes away from where I am in Estero. this preserve has two access points, one in Estero and one in Fort Myers, and has many safe, marked trails for visitors to see the wildlife and native plants that the park protects! this park has nice wide trails, through a combination of pine flatwoods and tidal salt flats that can lead visitors to the Estero River. while I did not venture all the way down to the river on my visit, the combined length of the trails is about 10 miles! visitors can bike, walk, run, or hike, and at this time of year, the trail is very dry.
next, let’s talk about Lakes Park, a beloved local spot that offers a mix of natural beauty and recreational activities. in the heart of Fort Myers, this park spans over 279 acres and features an array of lakes, gardens, and trails - i love being able to walk or run around the gorgeous center lake! the park is also a fantastic place for birdwatching, with numerous species to spot throughout the year. and don’t miss out on their butterfly garden, which showcases a vibrant collection of native plants and flowers!
next is Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, a much more secluded preserve 30 minutes northeast of Naples. managed by the Audubon Society, this sanctuary is over 13,000 acres and is home to the largest remaining stand of old-growth bald cypress trees in North America! the highlight here is the 2.25-mile boardwalk that takes you through a variety of habitats, including pine flatwoods, wet prairie, and the cypress forest. this boardwalk gives you the chance to spot an array of wildlife, from alligators and otters to birds and racoons! this trail is peaceful and immersive experience, allowing you to connect deeply with nature and be educated.
finally, let’s explore Koreshan State Park, a site rich in history and natural beauty. also located in Estero, this park was once home to the Koreshan Unity, a utopian community founded in the late 19th century. today, you can explore the historic buildings and learn about the unique beliefs and lifestyle of the Koreshans. the park also features beautiful nature trails that through pine flatwoods, by abundant bamboo, and along the Estero River. kayaking and canoeing are also popular activities here!
whether you’re seeking adventure or tranquility, the trails of Estero Bay Preserve State Park, Lakes Park, Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, and Koreshan State Park are great options. grab your water bottle, pack some snacks and your sneakers, and set out to discover the natural beauty that Southwest Florida has to offer. happy trekking!
