Start the new year with a refreshing hike through a scenic state park! This first-of-the-year hike takes place along the Beech Magnolia and Bluffs Trail, and offers a chance to connect with nature, breathe in the crisp winter air, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. You will follow along with a park ranger as you learn about the history and ecology of the area along the trail. The hike is anticipated to last no more than an hour and will take you over uneven and sandy terrain. All ages are welcome to join.
This guided walk will last about one hour and take guests through one of the largest contiguous rockland hammocks still in existence to learn about this ecosystem's unique flora and fauna.
Start your year off right and join a park ranger for a 2.5-mile round-trip hike on one of the beautiful trails at Lake Kissimmee State Park!
The hike is moderate level and is recommended for ages 6 and up. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring water, sunscreen and insect repellent
This is the First Day Hike event here at St. Sebastian River Preserve State Park. It should take roughly 3 hours and 45 mins to complete a moderately intense 3.5 mile hike on the Green Trail of the park. Participants are encouraged to bring their own supplies (sunscreen, water, snacks/lunch, insect repellent, hats, ect.), and ask questions pertaining to the park, its wildlife, or natural resource management.
We will hike a 1.5-mile trail that passes through part of the basin swamp. This is a more challenging hike, featuring a wet area with three wooden planks to cross. Be sure to bring water, bug spray, and wear appropriate footwear.
Celebrate the new year in the outdoors with a First Day Hike on the Joe Kenner Trail at Gamble Rogers State Park. Journey with a park ranger while learning about the native plants and animals of the maritime hammock and coastal strand ecosystem. The hike will last an hour and a half. Participants should be able to traverse uneven and sandy terrain for up to one mile alone or with the assistance of another. All ages welcome. Group size limited to 15. Pre-registration required by calling 386-517-2086.
Meet at the Nature Center on Sundays and Mondays for a guided exploration of MacArthur Beach State Park! Join a volunteer or ranger for a walk along the boardwalk, through the forest and to the beach. You will learn about the ecosystems of the park, the wildlife that call it home, as well as Park history. Each walk is about 1 mile long and may include some uneven terrane and stairs. Groups with 15+ people must email Alaina Miller to coordinate a separate tour.
Join a Park Ranger to explore MacArthur Beach while you view our seasonal and resident birds. This program is offered once per month and is scheduled around low tide in order to see wading birds in the estuary. This program is best for ages 10 and up. Participants should be prepared to walk one mile or more, to stand for over an hour, and should bring water. Binoculars are encouraged. Groups of 15 or more, call for reservations (Park Services Specialist Alaina Miller at 561-776-7449 x108).
Join us to celebrate the new year with a nature hike around Heron
Pond Trail. Learn about some of the different natural plant communities
in the park and spot wildlife on this one mile hike.
Join the Alachua Astronomy Club for an unforgettable night under the stars. Learn about constellations, planets, and the wonders of the night sky! Recurring monthly from December through March Capacity: Limited to 250 tickets per event.
What to Expect:
Bonfire with S'mores
Food trucks
A serene prairie backdrop for stargazing
What to Bring:
Chairs, blankets, and your favorite beverages
A spirit of wonder for the night sky!
Carpooling encouraged. No pets (Service animals welcome). This event is weather permitting.