Best Nature Walks in Nocatee
Image courtesy of Aleksander Fox via Unsplash
Get Outside and Active this Spring
Florida is an ecological wonder. From the sun kissed shores of the Gulf Coast to the uncharted waters of the Everglades, there’s always something for nature lovers to explore.
It may surprise you that there’s nature to discover in Florida’s planned communities! Nocatee, known as one of the best-selling master-planned communities in the United States, also has some of the best nature walks in northeast Florida.
Going on frequent nature walks is not only good for you physically but has mental health benefits as well. If you find yourself in Nocatee’s neck of the woods, check out these nature walks that are perfect for you and the whole family. Trust us, you’re not going to want to miss out on this.
Nocatee Preserve Tail Head
When people think of Florida, not many think about mountains. But if you’re looking for mountain biking in the flattest state, this 7-mile out-and-back trail near Ponte Vedra is the place to go. This Nocatee route is perfect for beginner mountain bikers and typically takes 2 hours to complete. It is also a popular trail for hiking and running. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.
Where: 210 Davis Park Rd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081
When: Open Daily, Dawn until Dusk
Nocatee Landing
Nocatee Landing is the perfect place for the perfect picnic. It is located in a beautiful and wild preserve along the Tolomato River north of St. Augustine. It includes a bike rack and parking area, a pavilion with a view of the river, solar-powered restrooms, and a launch location for non-motorized watercraft including canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddle boards. On a stunning section of the Intracoastal Waterway, visitors will find themselves surrounded by a variety of animals, including wading and marine birds, eagles, and peregrine falcons. It is also connected to the Nocatee Landing Trail for hikers and bikers.
Where: 2015 Nocatee Landing Trail, Nocatee, FL 32081
When: Open Daily, Dawn until Dusk
Nocatee Community Park
This 75-acre park is the hub of friendly recreation. You can find Nocatee trails for running and hiking that weave through lush landscapes and past scenic lakes. Tennis courts and soccer grounds are also available for family fun. There is also a dog park for our furry family members. Children of all ages can enjoy water slides, a zip line, a lazy river, and more at the local Nocatee Splash Water Park.
Where: 32081, 707 Little River Rd., Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081
When: Open Daily, 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Guana River Wildlife Management
Miles of trails may be found all over the area, and some of them lead to platforms with stunning marsh views. This is the ideal location in northeast Florida to watch peregrine falcons between the months of April and October, particularly when there is a west wind or right after a cold front. At Lake Ponte Vedra, some 3,000–4,000 migratory birds spend the winter, including pied-billed grebes, common moorhens, American coots, and common gallinules. There is no better trail in Nocatee for bird watchers.
Where: Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
When: Open Daily, Dawn to Dusk
Grab a Bite at Timoti’s after Your Hike
Treat yourself to some delectable wild-caught seafood at Timoti's Seafood Shak after your hike. Conveniently located in Nocatee Town Center, we offer a variety of seafood that will fuel you for your next outdoor adventure.