Many of us are looking for ways to be active while also staying socially distanced from others. That’s why Sarah Phinneyis starting a ‘Walking Club’ to highlight some hidden, and some not so hidden, trails across Tampa Bay that are great places for you and your family to check out.
Hop in the car and visit Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park this holiday weekend. You’ll find a mostly shaded loop with a lot of space to spread out. Plus, there’s a connection to even more trails.
Where is it?
Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park can be found in North Port. It’s about an hour and fifteen minute drive from Tampa.
Put this address into your GPS before you head out: 6968 Reisterstown Road North Port, FL 34291.
It’s also a good idea to check this spreadsheet before leaving to make sure the park is in good shape.
“This park floods without fail every year, except for this year!” said Debbie Blanco, Sarasota County Environmental Specialist. “Get here now!”
What is there to do?
The main trail, called the Yellow Trail, follows both sides of the creek. You can extend your walk by taking the White or Red loops. Click herefor a map of the park.
“If you want to take your time, it’s probably an hour, hour and a half,” said Blanco. “If you go a little faster and you’re trail running, maybe a half-hour.”
The creek and live oak trees make the area a destination for photographers and folks celebrating special events.
“It’s very popular for weddings, a lot of folks have their weddings out here,” Blanco said.
Visitors will also find a campsite, shelter/pavilion and horse riding trails. The park is dog-friendly, but leashes are required.
What else is there to do in the area?
There is a trailhead Big Slough Preserve from Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park. The preserve is especially popular with bikers.
“We have a connection from here, this little park, 168 acres, to almost 5,000 acres,” said Blanco.
That versatility is a big draw for visitors.
“If you want a really nice backcountry wilderness experience, you’ve got it. If you want a local park, it’s here.”
Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park is open from 6 a.m. to sunset. For more information, click here.
Let Sarah know if you visit Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park this weekend. You can find her on Facebook, Instagramor Twitter.