Forest hiking trails in Estero, Florida

Estero River Scrub - Estero Bay Preserve State Park is a beautiful natural oasis located in Estero, Florida. Visitors can explore miles of rugged trails that wind through a variety of ecosystems, from mesic flatwoods to salt flats. The park is home to a wide array of wildlife, including gopher tortoises, snakes, and numerous bird species. The preserve can be accessed from two locations: the Winkler Point entrance in Fort Myers and the Estero River Scrub entrance in Estero. At the Estero River Scrub entrance, visitors will find four separate trails, a pavilion, and restrooms. Benches are scattered throughout the preserve for visitors to rest and take in the natural beauty.

Welcome to Terra Ceia Preserve Trails, a hidden natural gem nestled in the heart of Palmetto, Florida. Located at 8054 Bishop Harbor Road, this stunning park invites you to explore its breathtaking landscapes from 8 a.m. until sunset. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or just seeking a peaceful escape, Terra Ceia Preserve offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of Florida's diverse ecosystems. Spanning 2,000 acres, the preserve is a sanctuary of mangrove forests, freshwater and saltwater wetlands, and upland communities. As you traverse the hiking trail located at the very north end of Hightower Road, you'll witness the ongoing habitat restoration efforts aimed at returning former agricultural lands to their natural, ecologically rich state.

Lovers Key State Park, located at 8700 Estero Boulevard in Fort Myers Beach, Florida, is a picturesque park and tourist attraction that offers a romantic setting for beachside weddings. This former collection of secluded barrier islands, now preserved for public enjoyment, features stunning beaches, mangrove forests, and serene canals where manatees and shorebirds can be spotted. Visitors can enjoy activities such as kayaking, lounging on the beach, and exploring the park's lagoons. The park also offers tram services, a gift shop, and a Discovery Center for educational programs. Please note that the park does not have electricity and boat trailer parking is limited.

Welcome to Caladesi Island State Park Boat Slips, your gateway to one of Florida's last remaining untouched islands along the Gulf Coast. Located at an unnamed road in Dunedin, Florida, our park offers a serene escape accessible only by boat, promising an adventure that is well worth the journey. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Caladesi Island, where pristine beaches invite you for a leisurely stroll and the bayside mangrove forest beckons for an exhilarating kayak trip. Discover the island's rich history as you traverse the nature trail to the historic Scharrer Homestead, nestled amid the island’s lush interior. Here, the gentle whisper of the ocean breeze through old-growth slash pines and the majestic embrace of expansive live oaks create a truly unforgettable experience.

Welcome to Lover’s Key Welcome and Discovery Center, your gateway to the natural beauty and serene landscapes of Lover's Key State Park. Nestled at 9950 Estero Boulevard in the picturesque Fort Myers Beach, Florida, our center serves as the perfect starting point for your adventure in one of Florida's most treasured coastal parks. At Lover’s Key Welcome and Discovery Center, we are dedicated to enhancing your park experience by providing valuable information, educational exhibits, and interactive displays that showcase the unique ecosystems and diverse wildlife that call Lover's Key home. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a family looking for a fun outing, or someone seeking tranquility by the sea, our center offers something for everyone.

Welcome to Terra Ceia Preserve State Park Trailhead, a breathtaking natural sanctuary located at 384 Terra Ceia Road, Palmetto, Florida 34221. This pristine park spans 2,000 acres and features a stunning array of mangrove forests, freshwater and saltwater wetlands, and upland communities. As part of an ongoing habitat restoration effort, the park is transforming former agricultural land back to its natural, ecologically diverse state. Visitors can explore the park's scenic hiking trails, accessible from park gates, which are open to foot traffic only. Please ensure that gates remain unobstructed for the convenience of all guests. For boating enthusiasts, the park offers a 24/7 boat ramp located at the end of Moccasin Wallow Road. The trails and natural beauty of the park are available daily from 8 a.m. until sunset.