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Walking Club: Exploring Sawgrass Lake Park in St. Pete

Sawgrass Lake St. Pete
Posted at 4:58 AM, Feb 19, 2021
and last updated 2021-02-22 18:18:05-05

Many of us are looking for ways to remain active while also staying a safe distance away from others. That's why Sarah Phinney started a ‘Walking Club’ to highlight some hidden, and some not so hidden, trails and parks across Tampa Bay.

Visit Sawgrass Lake Park in St. Pete with your family this weekend. It's a great way to be surrounded by nature, without traveling far. Plus, there are plenty of opportunities to see alligators, armadillos and other wildlife!

Where is it?

Sawgrass Lake Park is located between I-275 and US 19, just south of Gandy Boulevard. The address is:

7400 25th St. N.
St. Petersburg, FL 33702

You have to drive through a neighborhood to get to the park. The parking area near the restrooms is closest to the main entrance of the boardwalk.

By the way, you will hear traffic from I-275, especially on the easternmost side of the park.

What can I find there?

The 400 acre park has a boardwalk that stretches about a mile, as well as half-mile dirt trail.

The Sawgrass Trail is all boardwalk. It takes visitors to an overlook tower at Sawgrass Lake. It's a great spot to see alligators, birds and other wildlife.

The Maple Trail, also all boardwalk, weaves through the trees. It eventualy leads visitors to the dirt Oak Hammock trail.

Armadillos are often spotted in the area. If you don’t see one, just try to listen for rustling.

Keep in mind, bicycles, vehicles and dogs are not allowed on the boardwalk, but there are other places in the park where you can walk your dog.

When should I visit?

Sawgrass Lake Park is open from 7 a.m. to sunset.

Join Walking Club!

Post photos of your adventures, ask questions and learn about upcoming #WalkingClub stories in Sarah’s Walking Club group on Facebook!

You can also keep up with Sarah on Instagram and Twitter.