Sunlight glimmers off the tannic waters of Myakkahatchee Creek, a floodplain creek that flows naturally between tall sand banks through the northernmost reaches of North Port.
At Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park, ramble the trails to immerse in the beauty of the oak hammocks while looping around the creek.
Resources
Overview
Location: North Port
Length: Up to 2.5 miles in three loops
Trailhead: 27.118700, -82.196050
Address: 6968 Reisterstown Road, North Port FL 34287
Fees / Permits: free
Restroom: composting toilet at the trailhead
Land Manager: City of North Port
Phone: 941-861-5000
Open dawn to dusk. Leashed dogs welcome. Call ahead for a primitive camping permit.
Horseback riding and biking are allowed on the trail system, but the primary use appears to be for hiking.
A canoe and kayak launch is available to explore the creek.
Directions
From I-75 exit 182, North Port, head north on Sumter Blvd. When you reach the T intersection after 1 mile, turn left on Tropicaire Blvd. Brown signs lead the way to the park.
After 0.3 mile, turn right on Reistertown Rd, and after 0.9 mile, turn right into the park entrance. Park your car near the picnic area.
Hike
Starting at the trailhead sign just beyond the picnic area, follow the Big Slough Trail for a scenic loop walk along this picturesque natural waterway, on sand bluffs above the creek.
The trail passes through oak hammocks and old fields, while the two side loops (East Loop and West Loop, both worth the extra walk) enter dense hammocks along restored wetlands.
Be prepared for great views of the waterway as you walk along the bluffs along Big Slough, aka Myakkahatchee Creek.
Along the East Loop Trail, there is an observation deck and interpretive display overlooking restored wetlands.
The park also provides access to trails at neighboring Big Slough Preserve.
Trail Map
Explore More
Slideshow
See our photos of Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park
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