The Myakka River, flows through miles of wetlands, prairies, hammocks, and pinelands. In my opinion this is one of the best outdoor family experiences in Florida. The rangers at the station are very helpful and they have brochures available that literally plan your day.
You can enjoy various activities from wildlife viewing from a boardwalk that stretches out over the Upper Myakka Lake, or a stroll along the canopy walkway. The park´s river and two lakes provide boating, freshwater fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. Kayaking is very enjoyable – lots of alligators, herons, egrets, white pelicans if you are lucky, ospreys, bald eagles, ibis, and maybe even some wild boars.
If this is your first time in the park then the Canopy Walk is a must-do. Canopy Walkways are fairly rare, so when you have the chance to walk on one you should take it! If you’re up for a little bit of a climb definitely be sure to make your way to the top of the observation tower on the end of the Canopy Walk…the views are amazing! For better views either bring binoculars or use their coin-operated viewer at the top. I’m pretty sure we saw the Skyway Bridge way off in the distance once!
For those that are looking for a longer hike and backpacking experience I have to recommend checking out the Myakka Hiking Trail. It’s maintained by volunteers from the Florida Trail Association – Suncoast Chapter. This trail makes a 38.9 mile loop through the park. You will experience everything from hammocks, to prairies, to grasslands, and more.
I could go on and on about this park! There’s so much to do here! Bicycling, fishing, bird watching, geocaching, wildlife, kayaking, concerts, bird walk, the nature center, animals, campfire programs, camping, gift shop, concession stand…too much to list!
Photo Credit: http://hikeitflorida.com/
