Nature Trails
at Crowley
The self-guided
nature trail winds through CMNC property from high and dry pine flatwoods,
through the shady oak hammock, over the Maple Branch swamp, and out to the
edge of the expansive Tatum Sawgrass Marsh along the Myakka River. The wide
trails offer easy and pleasant walking conditions that are enjoyed by people
of all ages and abilities. Visitors are provided with a booklet for the
self-guided trail that details much of the native flora and fauna that might
be seen. Below are the main parts of the trail that visitors enjoy.
Pine Level Trail
The self-guided walk starts right outside
the office door on the Pine Level Trail. This trail is an authentic portion of the
wagon trail pioneer settlers used to travel from Pine Level, then the county seat, to the coastal settlement
of Braidentown (today's Bradenton). The Pine Level Trail is a
preserved piece of history within the Center, allowing visitors to walk a
portion of the trail just as the pioneers once did.
The Boardwalk
One of our star attractions is the
1/2 mile Boardwalk, which traverses Oak Hammock, Maple Branch Swamp and the Tatum Sawgrass
Marsh. A comfortable elevated
walkway, the boardwalk allows visitors to enjoy the sights and sounds of the
swamp without getting their feet wet and without harming delicate life below.
Benches placed at comfortable intervals allow for rest, quiet contemplation,
and wildlife viewing.
Observation Tower
A two story
observation tower at the end of the boardwalk is a favorite spot for
birders, providing a
panoramic view of the marsh with the Myakka River in
the distance. During the early summer, visitors can enjoy the vast stretch
of blooming swamp hibiscus that fills the marsh with soft pink. In the
winter months, guests often find white pelicans, roseate spoonbills and wood
storks by the river. Flying overhead, one can observe bald eagles, red
shouldered hawks, ospreys and other birds of prey.
Recent Sightings
We keep a log of
birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, insects, blooming plants and unique
animal behaviors here at Crowley. Click Here
to find out what we have been seeing lately.
