CREW Cypress Dome Trails

"We really enjoyed the variety we experienced on these trails. Going down the green trail is a beautiful, open habitat. We went to the caracara section next. It has some beautiful views of tall grass surrounded by palms and much of it is in a shaded walkway. Next was the white trail along the canal. That's where the real action was--lots of large squawking birds (including a caracara), several alligators, and something that was splashing around like crazy in the water. We got as far as post #10. It's more of a kayak trail at that point when we went. Bring mosquito repellent. They got us even on a very windy day."

"It's a very easy and pretty trail but just monotonous. We went in the winter and didn't see any wildlife. The trails are well-marked and easy to follow. We liked the audio clips at the tower explaining what we were looking at and who the organization is that maintains the trails. I think the trails would be miserable in hot weather since there isn't any shade. It was very pleasant in the winter."

"What an awesome trail system!! I had prepared myself for some submerged portions by bringing an entire change of clothes and shoes, but we didn’t need it. (Just the shoes lol) The coffee trail/white trail was submerged with ankle-calf deep water for approximately 200 feet (where it was unavoidable) and a bit longer (where it was avoidable); but if you don’t want to swamp tromp, it’s quite simple to not go on that trail. (We went on it tho! Great adventure!) The other trails are beautiful, they had all been freshly mowed, and save for a few muddy spots (also avoidable) they were totally dry. We got to the trailhead when it was still dark, I had read they open the gates an hour before dawn. We began our hike at 7 am. The mosquitos were INTENSE for the first hour or so, but then the wind picked up and they went on their way. There is a large pavilion kind of in the middle of the trails, and a large SINGLE person portajohn near to the pavilion. Tons of benches scattered throughout the trails, lots of birds plants flowers galore. We had cell service the entire time we were hiking, which was nice to be able to send pics to friends etc. We all brought hiking sticks with us which was helpful for the submerged section but not necessary for the rest of the trails, since they were dry and flat. I love CREW! This was our first time at this particular trail system and it did not disappoint! Loads of fun, great time exploring and immersing ourselves in nature! Cannot wait to come back!"

"I hike at least three days a week covering 4-6 miles each visit. I vary my route to keep things interesting. I am never bored because each time there's something new or different to experience. I have seen a variety of wildlife - Whitetail Deer, Bobcat, Wild Turkey, Feral Hogs, and too many bird species to name. I am still waiting to glimpse a Florida Panther and Black Bear. Being the summer season the trails have standing water in a number of places. Bring footwear designed for this type of environment. Also, don't just plunge right in. Alligators abound here and they will lie in wait in these shallow water areas for small prey. Make a commotion - throw a rock or two, grab a stick and thrash it around, Wear long pants, ideally those designed for hiking. Shorts are okay but wear long socks or gaiters. I bear scars from ignoring my own advice. Mosquitos, no-seeums, biting flies, and a myriad of biting and just generally annoying flying insects flourish in the area. DEET works well but you need to reapply ever so often since sweat and walking through standing water seems to dilute it pretty quick. These are not your gussied-up cater to the tourists type of trails. Keep this in mind and prepare accordingly. Bring water even if for only a short stay, a pocket first aid kit, small towel, DEET, and anything else you might take for an outdoor excursion. Take your time, stop occasionally and stand quietly, and keep your head on swivel so you don't miss that bobcat crossing the trail behind you."

"We rode our bikes here. The trails are well marked and maintained. There are trail maps at the kiosk. There is one porta potty just down the trail. You can access Conservation Collier's Caracara Prairie Preserve from here but you may have to cross a wet ditch to get to it (like now.) CREW is saving a lot of land in SW Florida so please donate to the iron ranger at the entrance to support the work of this non profit."