Pictured Above: Boardwalks at Weedon Island Preserve lead visitors through mangrove canopies to large outlooks for optimal views.
Annalise Anderson | The Crow’s Nest
By Annalise Anderson
It’s officially fall in Florida and St. Petersburg’s first cold front of the season arrived last week.
The state’s sweltering summers call for a sort of reverse hibernation to avoid the unbearable heat and humidity. But as temperatures begin to drop and Floridians emerge from their air-conditioned dwellings, outdoor activities become far more appealing.
St. Petersburg is home to an abundance of public parks and nature preserves with walking and biking trails, kayak launches and other natural attractions that offer outdoor escapes for seasoned hikers and nature novices alike. Take advantage of the city’s cooler weather while you can and break away from the computer screen. It’s adventure time.
Boyd Hill Nature Preserve
1101 Country Club Way S
Situated on Lake Maggiore, Boyd Hill is one of the city’s most popular natural attractions – and for good reason. The preserve’s 3 miles of trails guide visitors through Florida’s diverse ecosystems. A bird-of-prey aviary guarantees wildlife sightings during every trek and an up-close look at species like the bald eagle and great horned owl. Typically, a tram offers visitors a care-free ride around the trails, but it is currently unavailable due to COVID-19 safety precautions. Bikes are allowed on the trails. Pets are not permitted into the preserve. Adult admission is $3 and child admission is $1.50.
Annalise Anderson | The Crow’s Nest
Weedon Island Preserve
1800 Weedon Drive NE
North of downtown is Weedon Island Preserve. Located on Tampa Bay, the 3,194-acre preserve has miles of boardwalks and dirt and paved paths that lead visitors through scenic views of mangroves, estuaries and the bay. Its 45-foot observation tower offers an exciting bird’s eye view. Once home to indigenous people for thousands of years, the preserve aims to protect its natural and cultural resources for future generations. Kayak rentals are available to visitors at the canoe launch. Biking and fishing are permitted in designated areas of Weedon Island. Pets are not permitted and admission is free.
Sawgrass Lake Park
7400 25th St. N
Sawgrass Lake is in one of the largest maple swamps on the Gulf Coast. Thousands of birds migrate through the park during fall and spring, making it a national birding destination. Walk its mile-long boardwalk and half-mile dirt trail for an opportunity to spot some of Florida’s permanent and seasonal wildlife residents. The boardwalk leads to an observation tower overlooking Sawgrass Lake. Neither bikes nor pets are allowed on the boardwalk. Admission is free.
Crescent Lake Park
1320 Fifth St. N
For those wanting a more laid-back outdoor adventure, Crescent Lake Park is the perfect place for a breath of fresh air. North of Historic Uptown, the park’s mile-long sidewalk takes visitors around the perimeter of Crescent lake. There is plenty of lush green space for picnics, study groups and workout sessions. It also offers a dog park, tennis courts, pickleball courts and a pleasant number of ducks for cheap entertainment. Fishing and biking are permitted at the park.
