Amenities

Trails, ADA compliant boardwalk, picnic area, park benches, limited parking

Experiences

Nestled within a suburban community, this slice of preserved land offers a system of trails running through a variety of upland and wetland habitats. Enter the preserve by crossing a 330 foot boardwalk bordering a wetland. You may spot some of the resident wildlife, such as gopher tortoises, northern quail, swallowtail butterflies and great horned owls. Also look for wildflowers – grassleaf goldenaster and blazing star are prevalent here. Relax on one of the benches you will find along the trail and enjoy nature.

The marked trail is approximately one mile long. The hiking trails are unpaved but accessible for most visitors. Some trails may flood after heavy rainfall. Bring water, sun block, insect repellant, a rain jacket and sturdy shoes for hiking.

History

This 145 acre preserve was purchased between 2000 and 2002 through the County’s Environmentally Sensitive Lands Protection Program. Florida Communities Trust, a state program, provided 40% of the acquisition costs of a 110 acre tract within the site. The preserve is named after one of the earlier landowners, the Manasota Land and Timber Company, and for the scrub vegetation that grows primarily on the west side of Bridge Street.

Habitats

Longleaf and slash pine flatwoods, depression marsh, maple swamp, scrub

Acreage

145 acres

Watershed

Lemon Bay

Who Owns and Maintains

Owned and maintained by Sarasota County

Website

www.scgov.net

SCAT Bus stop and route

Route 16 at SR 776 and Manasota Beach Rd. intersection