Blueways Paddling Guide

Transcription

1 SARASOTA COUNTY Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Blueways Paddling Guide Get into the flow ~ - - -, - -.= ~

2 i Jacaranda Boulevard s LONGBOAT KEY ~.ave no TQce MOCNMCl<OUr New Pass [> The numbered triangles identify the paddle trail areas in this guide. Sarasota Bay Lido Big Sarasota Pass SARASO TA C OUNT Y Gulf of Mexico Tamiami Trail Roberts Bay Siesta TABLE OF CONTENTS About This Guide... u Sarasota Bay Trail... u Lido Trail... u South Lido Trail... u Phillippi Creek Trail... u Neville Marine Preserve Trail... u South Creek Trail... u Dona Bay/Roberts Bay Trails... u Caspersen Trail u Lemon Bay Trail... 0u Myakka River/Carlton Trail... u Myakka River/Myakkahatchee Creek Trails... Resource Directory... inside back cover Please help to protect our coastal habitats, waterways and wildlife. Pack out trash and recyclables and place in appropriate containers. To view this publication online: scgov.net (word Parks/Blueways Paddle Guide) University Parkway 0 Fruitville Road SARASOTA Phillippi Creek Tamiami Trail Little Sarasota Bay Beneva Road Casey Bee Ridge Road Proctor Road Clark Road The Legacy Trail Bay Street OSPREY [> Palmer Ranch Parkway Venice nlet Central Sarasota Parkway Harbor Drive NOKOMS Laurel Road VENCE Venice Avenue Venice Bypass MANATEE COUNTY SARASOTA COUNTY 9 Tamiami Trail Manasota Beach Road Manasota 9 9 Lemon Bay - =- -~ - - ~ =- -Reference Map -= _ 0 [> Myakka River Border Road 9 Englewood Road Lower Myakka Lake N. River Road [> S. River Rd. Upper Myakka Lake Verna Road NORTH PORT ENGLEWOOD SARASOTA COUNTY CHARLOTTE COUNTY Myakkahatchee Myakka River Creek

3 About this Guide THE BLUEWAYS PADDLNG GUDE S A GUDE TO SARASOTA S KAYAK AND CANOE TRALS Discover Sarasota County s natural beauty, its uniue wildlife and habitat as you explore the beautiful waterways of this county. There are area waterways to explore with suggested blueways (paddling trails) highlighted in this guide. The trail systems from the northern area of Sarasota County going south are as follows: the Sarasota Bay Trail, the Lido and South Lido Trails, the Phillippi Creek Trail, the Neville Marine Preserve Trail, the South Creek Trail, the Dona Bay/Roberts Bay Trails the Caspersen Trail and the Lemon Bay Trail. The last two trails in this guide are systems that are located in the eastern part of the county: the Myakka River/ Carlton Trail and the Myakka River/ Myakkahatchee Creek Trails. Sarasota County has a uniuely diverse blend of natural areas to explore while paddling the blueways. Paddle through a mangrove forest and view the wildlife of the estuaries. Paddle along the bays, bayous, lagoons and creeks and explore the natural areas of Florida s designated Wild and Scenic Myakka River. t has been said that in life, the journey is more important than the destination. This is a guide for your journey... to explore beyond the Florida you know. So take a journey and enjoy Sarasota County and all it has to ofer. HOW TO USE THS GUDE This guide can be used to navigate designated paddling routes through open water as well as mangrove trails. Each paddling trail has detailed directions to Launch Points. Each trail includes suggested Short Trips, Navigational Notes and Paddle Tips to help ensure a safe and enjoyable outing. to icons used throughout this guide: i:),,_ Launch Points Boat Ramps Parks Points of nterest Each trail includes some Points of nterest that can be enjoyed while on your journey. Site descriptions list related activities and amenities such as picnicking, birding, nature trails, fishing piers and camping, as well as sightseeing, historic and cultural sites. Throughout this guide there are Nature Notes about the Gulf Coast area s habitat and wildlife that can be observed while on a paddling adventure. Please keep this guide for future visits or share with a friend or family member. We hope you will enjoy the beautiful Blueways of Sarasota County for years to come. Dick Pfaf For park hours of operation call the Sarasota County Contact Center:

4 Sarasota Bay Trail ROUTE This trail is located in the northwestern portion of Sarasota County and extends from the Sarasota/Manatee County line to downtown Sarasota. LAUNCH PONTS/ BOAT RAMPS See map for additional launch points. Overlook Park , ~ ~ PONTS OF NTEREST Powel Crosley Estate Seagate Drive, N. Tamiami Trail, Bradenton. This was the home of Powel Crosley, the entrepreneur (especially known for soap operas). This 99 historic home has towering walls of cast stone, hand carved wooden doors, a stone portico, and freplaces that feature the graceful style and architecture of a bygone era. 9-- powelcrosleymuseum.com park that is a landing site only. No ndian Beach Park Located at the south end of Bayshore Road, Sarasota. A one-acre coastal Ringling Mansion Ca d Zan (top image) 0 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat motor vehicle parking available. and the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall NAVGATONAL NOTES. Take the Ringling Causeway sarasotagov.com (bottom image) are two structures you can see A majority of the Sarasota Bay Trail is on open water. The technical difculty of the Sarasota Bay Trail varies depending on the weather, particularly on the open bay. f paddling on the bay, a slight breeze (even - mph) can make paddling very difcult. This portion of the trail should be avoided by frst-time paddlers and those with onto Lido. Go north on John Ringling Parkway onto Longboat. mmediately after crossing the New Pass Bridge take the frst left. The launch is a sandy patch located on the Gulf side. Limited parking. John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art & Ca d Zan Mansion 0 Bayshore Road, Sarasota. Ca d Zan was the home of John and hours Monday-Friday. artists, in addition to French, Dutch, Centennial Park past fve centuries. Whitaker-Gateway Park as you paddle along the Sarasota Bay Trail. GENERAL EXPERENCE View the cultural, historic and landmark buildings from the water. As Mable Ringling, the crown jewel of sland Park/ you paddle north along the Sarasota the Ringling complex with stained Bayfront Park Bay Trail you will see structures that glass windows, whimsical carvings, Bayfront Drive is a section of U.S., were homes to residents of Sarasota little experience with waves. marble terraces, gardens, and located in downtown Sarasota on from times past, as well as buildings historical furnishings. The museum that are internationally recognized as SHORT TRPS the bayfront. There is a small beach has a large collection of internationally to launch from located at the south landmarks for their uniue designs. Whitaker Bayou recognized works of art by talian The paddle north from Centennial end of the park. Parking is limited to and Northern European Renaissance Park Boat Ramp is approximately / mile following the shoreline into Flemish, and Spanish works from the PADDLE TP Whitaker Bayou. This bayou provides a 09 N. Tamiami Trail at 0th CHECK THE mile or so of gentle paddling. You will 9--0 ringling.org Street, Sarasota. There is a small MARNE FORECAST pass the Ringling College of Art and section of sandy beach to the north Whether your trip is on Design and homes, and eventually of the boat basin, on Sarasota Bay, Sarasota Bay or any coastal the trail narrows into drainage canals. N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. that provides a great launch point waters, be sure to heed any These canals are narrow and have high Fishing pier, pavilion, playground to avoid the motorized trafc in the small craft advisories. banks which limit the paddlers view. and restrooms. A portion of the winding trail on the Ample parking. actual bayou provides a great view of native vegetation. 00 Ken Thompson Parkway, Paddling against strong winds sland Park to Eloise Werlin Park N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. This Lido. From U.S. take the and tides can make the trip This urban paddling trail is a two-mile landmark building was designed by John Ringling Causeway west. Go very difcult. Some trails may loop. Restaurants and public restrooms the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation. t north on John Ringling Parkway, not be navigable at low tide. are available. features world-class music, dance and onto Longboat. At the stoplight Check tide tables and plan your theater trip accordingly so you don t Ted Sperling Nature Park to Bird before the New Pass Bridge turn right on Ken Thompson Parkway. vanwezel.org get stranded at low tide. Park or Ken Thompson Park This trail is approximately a four to six-mile loop depending on the route you take. boat basin and channel. sarasotagov.com KNOW CURRENT CONDTONS WND, TDES AND Van Wezel Performing Ken Thompson Park RVER LEVELS Arts Hall The boat ramp is located on the right beyond Mote Marine Laboratory and Auarium. For park hours of operation call the Sarasota County Contact Center:

5 South Tamiami Trail Washington Boulevard LEGEND. Most sites listed o er some amenities r Refer to Manatee County Blueways Guide for more paddling trails north of Sarasota County. Seagate Drive PARKS ~-~ BLUEWAY TRAL Mangroves f. ndian Beach Park CAUTON AREAS Whitaker-Gateway Park High Boat Tra c Centennial Park y or Strong Currents D Exit Numbers c:, 0 LAUNCH PONTS Overlook Park sland Park/Bayfront Park Bird Park Ted Sperling Nature Park BOAT RAMPS All boat ramps accommodate canoe and kayak launching Centennial Park Ken Thompson Park LANDNG PONTS Water access ndian Beach Park Quick Point Nature Preserve Gulf of Mexico Drive 9 0 Quick Point Nature Preserve Ken Thompson Park (bait shop in area) Eloise Werlin Park and Tony Saprito Fishing Pier (bait shop in area) sland Park/Bayfront Park Bird Park North Lido Beach Otter Lido Beach Ted Sperling Park at South Lido Beach (See detailed inset on page ) PONTS OF NTEREST Powel Crosley Estate/University of South Florida New College of Florida Ca d Zan and Ringling Museum Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall New Pass Fishing Pier Sarasota BayWalk Mote Marine Laboratory and Auarium Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Sarasota Bay th St. North Shore Drive -: ~ - -=. - =-""'-- ~ ~ ~ - -~ ~ MANATEE COUNTY SARASOTA COUNTY Sarasota nternational Airport University Parkway North Tamiami Trail Bayshore Road Whitaker Bayou 0th St. SARASOTA University Parkway th St. to Gulf of Mexico 0 / Approx. scale E ective date: 0 Longboat mile Miles New Pass Lido 9 John Ringling Parkway St. Armands John Ringling Causeway 0 Otter ntracoastal Waterway Sarasota Bay Trail Bird Golden Gate Point Sarasota Bay Fruitville Road Bayfront Drive Mound Street Hudson Bayou Bahia Vista Street to 0

6 Lido Trail PONTS OF NTEREST sland Park/Bayfront Park PADDLE TP Bayfront Drive, Sarasota. Enjoy spectacular bay views, fountains, indoor/outdoor restaurants and unforgettable sunsets on Sarasota Bay. Ken Thompson Park 00 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota. An -acre park ofering a nature trail/boardwalk, picnic area, playground, and restrooms. There are indoor/outdoor restaurants in the area to enjoy refreshments and the view, as well as a bait shop scgov.net guided tour of the bays. NAVGATON A handheld GPS unit is recommended for trips on open water. Pack a trail map, marine map and/ or nautical chart of the Sarasota area and compass at minimum. Quick Point Nature Preserve Mote Marine Laboratory 00 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat and Auarium. A -acre nature park ofering ROUTE trails, boardwalks, tidal pools, scenic LAUNCH PONTS 00 Ken Thompson Parkway, This trail is located in the downtown area See map for additional launch points. Sarasota. Get a close-up look at the of the Sarasota bayfront and includes creatures that inhabit nearby coastal Lido and the southern portion of Bird Park waters. Come face-to-face with sharks, Longboat. 00 John Ringling Causeway, touch a horseshoe crab or enjoy Bird. After crossing the watching manatees gliding through the water. Mote Marine also ofers a vistas and wildlife viewing longboatkey.org ENVRONMENT Otter is primarily a mangrove NAVGATONAL NOTES Ringling Bridge going west, this island and is an excellent spot for The technical difculty of this trail park and launch point are located bird viewing. Observe manatees and varies, depending on the location. immediately on the right. 9--mote.org dolphins in their natural surroundings Motorized vessels are a hazard when throughout the Sarasota Bay area. paddling the ntracoastal Waterway. Ted Sperling Nature Park Otter As with all wildlife and marine life, Be careful tides and currents can 90 Taft Drive, Lido. A 0-acre island east of Lido, please keep your distance while be powerful as well. Paddlers should The launch is located to the east Otter is an undeveloped county observing them. also be aware of boat trafc and of the restroom facilities at the park. t is a great place for viewing strong currents when crossing Big end of Taft Drive. wildlife scgov.net Sarasota Pass. ATURE NOTES Ted Sperling Park Sarasota BayWalk 00 Ken Thompson Parkway, Dolphins communicate SHORT TRPS at South Lido Beach 0 Ben Franklin Drive, Lido. Sarasota. This.-acre wetland mainly by means of sounds. Ted Sperling Nature Park This launch area can be accessed restoration site with boardwalks ofers These sounds include whistles, Kayak/canoe one of Sarasota s by driving to the end of Ben wildlife viewing and nature trails. and also so-called pulsed sounds. They most popular paddling trails. Franklin Drive. also use breaching (jumping and falling Approximately -mile of a peaceful 0 Ted Sperling Park at South paddle through the mangrove Siesta Beach Lido Beach back into the water with a loud splash) tunnels that wind through Big 90 Taft Drive & 0 Ben Franklin and pectoral fn (or fipper) and tail (or Access # Grassy Lagoon and Brushy Bayou. Drive, Lido, Sarasota. This fuke) slaps (hitting the fipper or fuke on 90 N. Shell Road, Siesta. There is a detailed description of this From U.S. take Siesta Drive onto 00-acre park interacts with four the water s surface) for communication. outstanding trail on Pages -. Siesta ; continue west to Higel signifcant bodies of water: the Gulf Drive. n approximately one uarter of Mexico, Big Sarasota Pass, Sarasota Quick Point Nature Preserve of a mile, turn right on North Shell Bay, and Brushy Bayou. There are to Ken Thompson Park Road. At the end of North Shell beaches, nature trails, picnic areas, This trail is a -mile loop. There are Road there is a small beach access and restrooms nature trails to enjoy at Quick Point with limited parking. scgov.net Nature Preserve and the Sarasota Baywalk by Ken Thompson Park. Tony Saprito Pier Also located here are waterfront Located at Eloise Werlin Park, restaurants, picnic areas and Sarasota. Concession and bait shop fishing piers. (Hart s Landing). This is a popular spot to fsh, with a beautiful view of the Sarasota skyline. For park hours of operation call the Sarasota County Contact Center:

7 LEGEND Most sites listed o er some amenities - g # Otter -: BLUEWAY TRAL Mangroves CAUTON AREAS High Boat Tra c or Strong Currents Exit Numbers LAUNCH PONTS Overlook Park ' " ' '... _, - sland Park/Bayfront Park Bird Park Ted Sperling Nature Park Ted Sperling Park at South Lido Beach Siesta Beach Access # LANDNG PONTS Water access BOAT RAMPS All boat ramps accommodate canoe and kayak launching New Pass g Centennial Park 9 Ken Thompson Park Lido Beach PARKS Centennial Park Quick Point Nature Preserve Ken Thompson Park (bait shop in area) Eloise Werlin Park and Tony Saprito Fishing Pier (bait shop in the area) sland Park Bird Park North Lido Beach Otter 9 Lido Beach 0 Ted Sperling Park at South Lido Beach (See detailed inset on page ) Edwards slands PONTS OF NTEREST Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall New Pass Fishing Pier Sarasota BayWalk Mote Marine Laboratory and Auarium 0 / Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Approx. scale E ective date: 0 0 Gulf of Mexico Drive Longboat Lido North Boulevard of the Presidents Pansy Bayou Gulf of Mexico Sarasota Bay ', Miles St. Armands / mile /,,,, John Ringling Causeway l South Boulevard of the Presidents Benjamin Franklin Drive + N Otter Taft Drive 0 / NTRACOASTAL WATERWAY Big Sarasota Pass Bird n "- - " Lido Trail ' North Shell Road Higel Avenue Siesta Hanson Bayou Roberts Bay NTRACOASTAL WATERWAY ' ' " Fruitville Road sland Park g /. / '-., SARASOTA Bayfront Drive '- to 0 Hudson Bayou Siesta Drive

8 South Lido Trail Harrison Drive S. Blvd. of the Presidents McKinleyDrive RooseveltDrive Taft Drive P Little Grassy Lagoon Sarasota Bay Big Grassy Lagoon MANGROVE TUNNELS This trail is located at Ted Sperling Nature Park at the southernmost tip of Lido. Take a self-guided tour of this outstanding trail, considered one of the most diverse in Southwest Florida. Following the trail you will enter Sarasota Bay before turning into Little Grassy Lagoon, a shallow water body distinguished by its rich seagrass beds. Two main varieties of seagrass carpet the bottom of the lagoon: turtle grass (fat and wide blades) and widgeon grass (spaghetti-shaped). Both provide food and protection for a wide range of marine animals, including channeled whelk, hermit crab, and mullet. At the far southern end of the lagoon, the trail continues east down a tunnel that was originally constructed as a mosuito ditch. Mosuito ditches are a remnant of eforts made during the 90s to control mosuitoes by introducing tidal fow to the mosuito breeding pools. Because of its detrimental environmental impact and limited efectiveness, this method of mosuito control was discontinued. By paddling down the narrow passage, kayakers can better view the complex root system of the red mangrove and the dynamics of mangrove ecosystems. As one emerges from the tunnel into Sarasota Bay, two mangrove islands appear directly ahead. These islands provide habitat for large nesting water birds (especially during the winter). Brown pelicans, great blue herons, and great egrets rest in the dense foliage of the mangrove islands. From the mangrove islands, paddle along the northern bank of Big Grassy Lagoon. Along the mangrove-fringed shore are a series of oyster beds. Passing the observation deck of the northern nature trail, you will enter another tunnel connector which will take you into the focal point of the park s natural system Brushy Bayou. As you drift uietly in the bayou you may have the opportunity to view a broad range of wildlife that travel between land and water. To exit Brushy Bayou, paddle down the tunnel immediately to the north of the bayou inlet. Buttonwood and white mangroves grow along this tunnel in greater density than other areas of the Brushy Bayou system. After leaving the fnal tunnel, you can return to the canoe launch by crossing Big Grassy Lagoon, passing the mangrove islands, to emerge in the small clearing on the other side that faces Sarasota Bay. PADDLE TP NECESSARY EQUPMENT Bow and stern lines (about feet long is best). Anchoring device with rope (length of rope should be fve to seven times depth of water). Extra paddle per boat. Approx. scale Eective date: 0 Benjamin Franklin Drive 0 / / Brushy Bayou South Lido Beach LEGEND Gulf of Mexico + P Miles ENVRONMENT Habitat Mangroves and wetland areas are an important natural resource to all of Florida. As beautiful as they are biologically essential, they are an integral component of the estuarine ecosystem. These habitats provide a number of essential benefts to bay life food and shelter for marine life and wildlife, protection for the shorelines from erosion, and as a flter for the pollutants. Green buttonwood (Conocarpus erectus), which is not a true mangrove, grows along the South Lido Trail in the Brushy Bayou tunnel area. Green buttonwood generally has small, elongated leaves and bears round buttons or fruits that turn brown. There are three types of mangroves found along Florida s coast, all of which can be found on the South Lido Trail red mangrove, black mangrove, and white mangrove. Big Sarasota Pass BLUEWAY TRAL MANGROVE CAUTON AREAS High Boat Trac or Strong Currents LAUNCH PONTS PONTS OF NTEREST North Nature Trail South Nature Trail Observation Towers Red mangrove (Rhizophora mangle), which is the dominant plant of South Lido Park s shoreline, has distinctive arching prop roots and green beanlike seed pods or propagules. Black mangroves (Avicennia germinans) are found growing among red mangroves. Black mangroves sweat salt from their leaves and send up twiggy projections from their roots called pneumatophores, which provide oxygen to the tree s roots. White mangroves (Laguncularia racemosa) usually grow above the high tide line. The white mangroves have thick, leathery leaves at the base of which lie two small nodes which excrete excess salt. For park hours of operation call the Sarasota County Contact Center:

9 Phillippi Creek Trail ROUTE LAUNCH PONTS PONTS OF NTEREST Pinecraft Park Marie Selby Botanical Gardens 0 Gilbert Ave., Sarasota. S. Palm Ave., Sarasota. A -acre park with a beautiful view of Selby Gardens has multiple distinct Phillippi Creek winding north. t ofers garden areas that showcase plant picnic areas, playground, pavilion, species from all over the world. There nature trail, shufe board courts, is a butterfy garden, the bamboo basketball courts, volleyball court, pavilion, koi pond, banyan grove, palm and restrooms Siesta Beach 0,000 plants. 9-- This beach is world-renowned and grove, shoreline restoration, and the baywalk. Selby Gardens also ofers a collection of more than,000 orchids and a museum showing more than selby.org scgov.net 9 Beach Road, Siesta. recognized as one of the most beautiful beaches found anywhere Phillippi Estate Park with the whitest and fnest sand in the The Phillippi Creek Trail extends from See map for additional launch points. 00 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. world (99 percent pure uartz) Siesta Roberts Bay to north of A 0-acre park located on Phillippi Beach has concessions, picnic areas, Bahia Vista Street. Pinecraft Park Creek. The Edson Keith Mansion is playground, tennis courts, beach 0 Gilbert Ave., Sarasota. the center piece of the park, it was volleyball, pavilion, and restrooms. NAVGATONAL NOTES From U.S. (Tamiami Trail) take built in 9 in the classic talian scgov.net This is a great trail for novice paddlers. The technical difculty can be intermediate depending on the Bahia Vista Street going east; then turn south on Gilbert Avenue. renaissance style, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Enjoy a stroll on the nature trail that weather conditions and presence of Phillippi Estate Park winds along the shoreline. This park motorized vessels on the open bay and near the ntracoastal Waterway. There is light boat trafc on the creek. From the mouth of the creek to U.S. is a slow speed zone; after that it is an idle speed zone/no wake. SHORT TRPS Phillippi Estate Park to Pinecraft Park Approximately three miles upstream from the launch at Phillippi Estate Park, this urban paddle trail takes you through residential neighborhoods. This route can also be taken by launching from Pinecraft Park and paddling downstream to the bay. 00 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. has picnic areas, playground, gazebo, Travel approximately four miles fshing piers, and restrooms. south on U.S. from downtown scgov.net Sarasota. Phillippi Estate Park is located on the west side of U.S. (Tamiami Trail). Follow the road ENVRONMENT to the back parking area, by the Estuaries restrooms. The launch is located by the west fshing pier. Estuaries are where fresh water from rivers and creeks mixes with salt water Christopher Wheeler Park from the sea. 00 Old Stickney Point Road, Estuaries are considered cradles of the Siesta. From U.S. take sea because they provide important Stickney Point Road onto Siesta. spawning grounds and nurseries for at Turn left on Midnight Pass Road. least two-thirds of the nation s fsheries Take the frst left on Old Stickney and are among the most biologically Point Road. The park is at the end of productive areas in the world. While paddling the road. Limited parking. you have a chance to view a wide variety of wildlife up close. Remember that many species NAT URE NOl ES The most widespread and familiar heron across much of the country, the Great Blue is also the largest heron in North America. t is a solitary Phillippi Estate Park PADDLE TP are incubating or rearing young and are bird, and single birds are often seen to Roberts Bay vulnerable to disturbance. Some may be very fying slowly overhead although Approximately a four-mile loop rare or even endangered so please keep your they tend to nest in colonies that heading north from the mouth of distance. The Phillippi Creek Trail ofers unlimited can contain hundreds of birds. The Phillippi Creek. Paddle this trail to opportunities to view estuarine habitats. nest is an untidy-looking platform explore the Big Edwards and Little of sticks, either in trees or brush. The Edwards slands. Two locally important bay habitats are eggs are incubated for about seagrasses and mangroves. The seagrass beds days, by both adult birds. The chicks Christopher Wheeler Park are important to estuarine productivity in leave the nest about eight weeks to Phillippi Estate Park DON T FORGET many ways. The grass beds provide a protective after they hatch. Approximately a one-mile paddle to Hat and sunglasses, sunscreen, nursery area for juvenile fsh, shrimp, and crabs. the mouth of the Phillippi Creek. insect repellent, and a waterproof Mangrove trees serve as a home to birds, and storage bag. A frst aid kit is the prop roots of the red mangrove ofer shelter always recommended. to small fsh and shellfsh. For park hours of operation call the Sarasota County Contact Center:

10 John Ringling Boulevard Bird Big Sarasota Pass,,,,,, ) North Shell Road Beach Road Higel Avenue Sarasota Bay Siesta NTRACOASTAL WATERWAY,,,--... _... ' y / Roberts Bay Midnight Pass Road Gulf of Mexico 9 Hudson Bayou Siesta Drive Osprey Avenue Midnight Pass Road 0 Tamiami Trail,/ Bahia Vista Street SARASOTA Webber Street Bee Ridge Road Proctor Road /,,/ Constitution 0,/ Creek Phillippi Stickney Point Road ( ) r ( ) / Boulevard /,/ / Tuttle Ave. Swift Road Clark Road / Phillippi Creek Trail / / /. South Lockwood Ridge Road Beneva Road LEGEND Most sites listed o er some amenities,,,-" BLUEWAY TRAL D y ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ _, 9 0 Mangroves CAUTON AREAS High Boat Tra c or Strong Currents Exit Numbers C, LAUNCH PONTS sland Park Bird Park Pinecraft Park Ted Sperling Park at South Lido Beach Siesta Beach Access # Phillippi Estate Park Christopher Wheeler Park LANDNG PONTS Water access only + N c,. Big Edwards sland (N.) and Little Edwards sland (S.) Skier s sland PARKS sland Park Bird Park Phillippi Creek Levee Trail Pinecraft Park Ted Sperling Park at South Lido Beach Nora Patterson Bay sland Park Big Edwards sland (N.) and Little Edwards sland (S.) Phillippi Estate Park Siesta Beach Christopher Wheeler Park PONTS OF NTEREST 0 / Approx. scale E ective date: 0 to 0 c,. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens to 0 Riverview High School Phillippi Estate Park Nature Trail Miles mile

11 Neville Marine Preserve Trail Blackburn Point Park D ick Pf a f PONTS OF NTEREST Historic Spanish Point U.S. (N. Tamiami Trail), Osprey. A 0-acre National Register site featuring archaeological shell middens, a pioneer era homestead, formal gardens, and nature trails. n A Window To The Past, walk inside a -foot high shell midden, dating back to 0 BC. (No launching or landing at this location.) 9-9- historicspanishpoint.org Jim Neville Marine Preserve This -acre preserve is essentially ROUTE LAUNCH PONTS two main islands. The islands have a The Neville Marine Preserve Trail is See map for additional launch points. fringe of mangroves. This trail has a located in Little Sarasota Bay. The route maze of waterways to explore while meanders around the -acre Jim Turtle Beach observing a large variety of birds and Neville Marine Preserve, which is located 9 Midnight Pass Road, Siesta. other wildlife. between Siesta and Casey. From U.S. (Tamiami Trail) take Stickney Point Road onto NAVGATONAL NOTES Siesta. Turn left at Midnight Novice paddlers will enjoy this trail. t Pass Road and travel south is important to watch for motor boats ENVRONMENT approximately. miles to the when crossing the ntracoastal entrance of Turtle Beach Park. Bird Watcher s Paradise Waterway, especially when Some of the common birds in the Sarasota Bay approaching the Blackburn Point Wharf Road area include: great blue heron, cattle egret, historic bridge. Also, use caution when Going south on U.S. (Tamiami great egret, white ibis, brown emerging from Catfsh Creek and Trail) at the Westfeld Sarasota pelican, roseate spoonbill, North Creek. Suare Mall, turn right onto Vamo kingfsher, osprey, wood stork, Road. Then turn right at Wharf yellow-crowned night heron, SHORT TRPS Road and go to the end. bald eagle, anhinga, Turtle Beach around Limited parking. and cormorant. Jim Neville Marine Preserve From the Turtle Beach launch, paddle out to Little Sarasota Bay. The preserve can be seen as soon as you enter the bay. t is approximately a -mile loop around the preserve. Wharf Road or Vamo Drive to Blackburn Point Park This blueway is a good inner bay paddle. You can journey south without crossing much open water or motorized boating channels. Follow the shoreline along Osprey or Casey to Blackburn Point Park. This trail provides opportunities for a picnic lunch or checking out the local waterfront restaurants. Turtle Beach to Osprey Fishing Pier This blueway trail is an easy paddle and you can also fsh at the pier or take a break for lunch. Vamo Drive Enjoy viewing bird rookeries Going south on U.S. (Tamiami from at least 00 yards away. Trail) at the Westfeld Sarasota These rookeries, such as the Suare Mall turn right onto Vamo Jim Neville Marine Preserve, Road. Before the curve in the road, harbor nesting colonies and turn right on Vamo Drive to the focks of feeding birds. end. Limited parking. Be a friend to nature and pick up trash and marine debris such as fshing line 00 Blackburn Point Road, Osprey. and plastic six-pack can At the intersection of U.S. holders, which can be (Tamiami Trail) and Blackburn Point lethal to seabirds and other Road, turn west onto Blackburn marine life. Point Road toward Casey. The park is located on both sides of the While viewing wildlife historic swing bridge. remember the best opportunity to see them is by being uiet and moving slowly. Turtle Beach 9 Midnight Pass Road, Sarasota. Beach park with a tidal lagoon connecting to Little Sarasota Bay. This -acre Gulf-to-Bay park ofers a large picnic shelter, playground, restrooms, boat ramp, and also has the Turtle Beach Campground scgov.net Aerial of Jim Neville Marine Preserve. Top t o b ott o m: rose ate spoonbill, great blue heron, brown pelican, a nd bro w n and whi te pelicans taking fight. F l. D ept. of St a t e For park hours of operation call the Sarasota County Contact Center:

12 0 g LEGEND,,,, - l N Most sites listed o er some amenities BLUEWAY TRAL 0 + / Siesta Mangroves CAUTON AREAS High Boat Tra c or Strong Currents LAUNCH PONTS Turtle Beach Wharf Road Vamo Drive Blackburn Point Park Oscar Scherer State Park LANDNG PONTS Water access only Palmer Point Park Osprey Fishing Pier (no parking) BOAT RAMPS All boat ramps accommodate canoe and kayak launch Turtle Beach Blackburn Point Park 9 Osprey Fishing Pier Blackburn Point Historic Bridge Oscar Scherer State Park Nature Trail Camping (permit reuired) Midnight Pass Road Stickney Point Road PARKS Turtle Beach and Turtle Beach Campground Jim Neville Marine Preserve Palmer Point Park Blackburn Point Park (bait shop in area) Shoreland Park Oscar Scherer State Park PONTS OF NTEREST Historic Spanish Point The Legacy Trail Trail Access to the Legacy Trail Approx. scale E ective date: 0 Miles / mile Turtle Beach Little Sarasota Bay -,,- Gulf of Mexico 9 9 NTRACOASTAL WATERWAY North Casey Road Casey Wharf Road Beneva Road Vamo Road Vamo Drive South Tamiami Trail Catÿsh Creek Little Sarasota Bay Westÿeld Sarasota Suare Mall Vamo Way North Creek Main Street, Bayview Drive / Dryman Bay Neville Marine Preserve Trail SARASOTA East Bay Street OSPREY Blackburn Point Road. ' -, _, Mcntosh Road Central Sarasota Parkway Navigation di cult Trails are not marked South Creek Palmer Ranch Parkway The Legacy Trail Oscar Scherer State Park

13 South Creek Trail PONTS OF NTEREST Blackburn Point Park 00 Blackburn Point Road, Osprey. This park has a launch point, boat ramp, restrooms and ofers fshing, picnicking, and nearby restaurants. Bait shop in the area scgov.net ROUTE LAUNCH PONTS Oscar Scherer State Park S. Tamiami Trail, Osprey. A,-acre park that has a brackish water tidal creek running through it. The park ofers bicycle trails, camping, nature trails, fshing, picnic areas, a swimming area, and an ADA-accessible canoe/kayak launch in the South Creek picnic area. The park is pet friendly, and This trail follows the coast along the barrier island of Casey. Paddling Blackburn Point Park up South Creek will take you into the At the intersection of U.S. Canoe and kayak rentals lush vegetation of Oscar Scherer (Tamiami Trail) and Blackburn Point are available, a.m.- p.m. daily. State Park. Road, turn west toward Casey. There is a ranger-led paddle program NAVGATONAL NOTES When launching at Blackburn Point Park be aware that this area can have heavy boat trafc. As you paddle into the bay from South Creek also beware of the boat trafc. SHORT TRPS Blackburn Point Park to South Creek Palmer Point Park Located between Siesta and Casey. A secluded bay to beach park that is not accessible by car. Excellent for fshing and observing nature. has phones, and restrooms. Paddling on South Creek, Oscar Scherer State Park. The park is located on both sides of the historic swing bridge. Oscar Scherer State Park (entrance fee and rental fee apply). nuire at the ranger s ofce at the entrance. There is an entry fee Shoreland Park per vehicle, per day. For camping Traveling south on U.S. reservations call: to Osprey, continue south For more information call: 9-- approximately two miles, turn 9 or right onto Shoreland Drive. The park/oscar-scherer park is on the left as you take the curve in the road. Limited parking. ENVRONMENT FSH AND CRUSTACEANS NATURE N TE Mangrove Snapper This is a -mile loop. As you leave From Osprey continue south on Sarasota Bay ofers some of the fnest the launch at Blackburn Point Park, U.S. approximately two miles. shallow-water fshing in the world. paddle south under the swing bridge. The entrance to the park is on Approximately one mile into the the left. (Note: There is an entry Among the fsh and crustaceans that can route you will see the opening to fee per vehicle per day.) Drive be found here are founder, red drum, South Creek on the east side of the approximately / mile and take sheepshead, snook, spotted seatrout, Sheepshead bay. Take a trip down this uiet trail the frst right after entering the mullet, pompano, shrimp, stone crabs, that winds its way into Oscar Scherer park to reach the launch point. and blue crabs. State Park. Blackburn Point Park to Osprey Fishing Pier This is a perfect route to include a stop for refreshments. At both ends of the loop you can enjoy a waterfront restaurant. t is a -mile loop within Little Sarasota Bay. Use caution when crossing the ntracoastal Waterway. Threatened Florida scrub-jay. Sarasota Bay Estuary Program The paddle trails highlighted in this guide will take you through tidal fats, along mangrove shorelines, large expanses of seagrasses, oyster bars, and sand bars, all of which provide access to some of the best fshing found in the region. A fshing license is reuired, except for Florida residents over or those under years of age. To purchase a fshing license go to the county tax collector s ofce or visit: myfwc.com/license Grouper (Red) Red Drum (Redfsh) Diane Peebles-Florida Fish & Wildlife For park hours of operation call the Sarasota County Contact Center:

14 J D }-0- /- -- /... ( ' 0,~-_J Little Sarasota Bay - Bayview Drive '-. ' ' / / Y North Casey Road Gulf of Mexico 0 NTRACOASTAL WATERWAY Casey Road Main Street Dryman Bay Casey OSPREY South Tamiami Trail Blackburn Point Road East Bay Street South Creek North Lane Shoreland Drive LEGEND Most sites listed o er some amenities - BLUEWAY TRAL Mangroves CAUTON AREAS High Boat Tra c or Strong Currents # Exit Numbers LAUNCH PONTS Blackburn Point Park Shoreland Park Oscar Scherer State Park LANDNG PONTS Water access only Palmer Point Park Osprey Fishing Pier PARKS Palmer Point Park Blackburn Point Park (bait shop in area) Shoreland Park Oscar Scherer State Park PONTS OF NTEREST Historic Spanish Point Osprey Fishing Pier Blackburn Point Historic Bridge Oscar Scherer State Park Nature Trail Campground (permit reuired) The Legacy Trail Trail Access to the Legacy Trail South Creek Trail The Legacy Trail Oscar Scherer State Park Road Oscar Scherer State Park to v? -00 Approx. scale E ective date: / / Miles / mile ' '

15 Dona Bay / Roberts Bay Trails ROUTE Located between Nokomis and the City of Venice these trails ofer a variety of opportunities to experience. motorized vessels. The presence of mangrove islands ofers the beneft of a pleasant nature tour. miles, cross Curry Creek Bridge Higel Marine Park PONTS OF NTEREST Nokomis Beach 90 Casey Road, Nokomis. Sarasota County s oldest public beach. A -acre park with a boat ramp, historic pavilion, picnic areas, boardwalk, and restrooms scgov.net North Jetty Park 00 Casey Road, Nokomis. t is popular for fshing; a bait shop is in the area. ncludes picnic shelters, volleyball courts, a concession stand, and restrooms. A great location to watch beautiful Florida sunsets scgov.net - PADDLE TP BRDGES Use extreme caution when traveling under bridges as currents can be very swift. Also, watch for fshing lines. MOTORBOATS AND PERSONAL WATERCRAFT Watch for motorboats and personal watercraft, stay to the right and turn the bow (front) into the wake. North Jetty Park Venice Beach While winding your way through The Legacy Trail 00 The Esplanade, Venice. creeks and bays you will see intertidal to Roberts Bay A multi-use recreational trail that habitat throughout. This trip s technical difculty is novice extends over 0 miles from Sarasota to intermediate, depending on to Venice via the former Seaboard NAVGATONAL NOTES weather conditions and tidal currents Air Line Railroad. Portions of the These trails are easy to maneuver. in exposed areas. t is approximately a Dona Bay and Roberts Bay Trails pass However, be aware of boat trafc at -mile loop. beneath the trestle bridges of The all times, especially at the western Legacy Trail. Nokomis Community side of this trail system, where the LAUNCH PONTS Center, located along this blueway Venice nlet and the ntracoastal See map for additional launch points. trail, also ofers access to The Legacy Waterway are located. Nokomis Beach Trail scgov.net n Dona Bay, be aware of currents 90 Casey Road, Casey, Zebra beneath the U.S. bridge during Nokomis. From U.S. take Albee tidal changes. The currents also can Road onto Casey. The launch be strong in the Venice nlet and is located on the bayside at the surrounding areas. n Roberts Bay, ENVRONMENT south end of the park. beware of the water sport area. When TDAL MARSHES paddling into Curry Creek you may North Jetty Park Tidal marshes are the boundary come upon shallow areas. 000 Casey Road, Casey, or interface between the ocean Nokomis. Follow the same direction and the adjacent land. They SHORT TRPS for getting to the Nokomis Beach receive fresh water, sediment, Shakett Creek Route Park, and continue south to the end and nutrients from the land After passing under Laurel Road, of Casey Road. and are also exposed to salty the trail extends through residential marine waters that add additional Curry Creek Preserve areas for approximately. miles. An nutrients. The abundance of food From U.S. going south from exploration of the black tip needle rush and shelter along this marsh Sarasota take Laurel Road east, marshes on the north and the south edge results in a concentration of then take a right, going south, sides of Laurel Road is recommended. animals, from tiny invertebrates onto Albee Road. Go about. to game fsh and shorebirds. The Lyons Bay stems of individual grasses, bathed Lyons Bay is less than one mile long. and entrance is on the left. daily by salty water, are coated with a Much of the bay is too shallow for dense layer of microscopic animals. motorized vessels, but there are 0 Tarpon Center Drive, Venice. At all levels the interactions between established boating channels on either Take Venice Ave. west from U.S. land and water contribute to the high side of the bay. until you come to Venice productivity and value of Beach. Take the road that follows salt marshes. Dona Bay The length of Dona Bay is the coastline going north (The Esplanade North turns into Tarpon Egrets nesting in approximately. miles. There is marsh area. an established boating channel for Center Drive). The park is located on the right. Limited parking. This beach is best known for collecting sharks teeth. ncluded in this.-acre park is a pavilion, concession, picnic tables, volleyball court, and restrooms scgov.net longwing butterfy For park hours of operation call the Sarasota County Contact Center:

16 Snake sland 't - LEGEND Most sites listed o er some amenities # 0 CAUTON AREAS High Boat Tra c or Strong Currents Approx. scale E ective date: 0 Casey BLUEWAY TRAL Mangroves Exit Numbers LAUNCH PONTS Nokomis Beach North Jetty Park Curry Creek Preserve Nokomis Riverview Park Legacy Park LANDNG PONTS Water access only Rattlesnake sland / Miles NTRACOASTAL WATERWAY Blackburn Bay / mile Casey Road Nokomis Beach Venice nlet Albee Road West Lyons Bay Gulf of Mexico Bayshore Drive Laurel Road West NOKOMS BOAT RAMPS All boat ramps accommodate canoe and kayak launch Nokomis sland Loreto Court Bay Access Higel Marine Park Venice Marina Park PARKS Nokomis Beach Bay Point Park - (no parking) Rattlesnake sland - Access by water only North Jetty Park Lyons Bay Park - (no parking) 0 Snake sland - Access by water only Pocono Trail Preserve Venice Nokomis Community Park Beach 9 Curry Creek Preserve 0 Pinebrook and Wellÿeld Parks South Jetty Park Higel Marine Park Marina Park Boat Ramp, Venice Train Depot and Legacy Park Venice Beach PONTS OF NTEREST North Jetty Park Fishing Area South Jetty Park Fishing Area The Legacy Trail Trail Access to the Legacy Trail The Esplanade Lyons Bay Road 9 Tamiami Trail VENCE Harbor Drive Dona Bay Roberts Bay,-~-..,,, "" Venice Avenue The Legacy Trail Shakett Creek Hatche t Creek,,. 0 River Blvd. /,/ ),/ Curry Creek Dona Way Strong currents beneath bridges...,,,, Fox Creek.. /,/ Portia Street.../.._.. A,...,r l Lucille Ave. Loreto Court Florence Street East Colonia Lane Albee Farm Road South Tamiami Trail (Business U.S. ) Dona Bay / Roberts Bay Trails. _,t_.~.../ --- NTRACOASTAL WATERWAY,/ V -, ) Salt Creek. 9 ~ U.S. BYPASS Edmondson Road Venice Avenue Laurel Road East '-..::::... Pinebrook Road 0 Blackburn Canal 9 Obstructions may impede navigation. Connects with Myakka River 9

17 Caspersen Trail PONTS OF NTEREST Blind Pass Beach Manasota Road, Manasota. Blind Pass Beach (also known as Middle Beach ) is a bay to beach park ofering a nature trail, a picnic shelter, playground, and restrooms scgov.net Caspersen Beach Park 00 Harbor Drive S., Venice. This beautiful bay to beach park has nature trails, wildlife viewing, and restrooms. t is recognized as one of the most enjoyable shelling beaches and a great place to view dolphins and shore birds. An excellent spot to fnd prehistoric shark teeth scgov.net Manasota Beach Park to the Gulf. Sea turtles, both rua:. otes Common Pelican Myth: Pelicans do not carry fsh in their pouch. The pouch is used to catch the fsh, which is then swallowed before the pelican takes of again. Venetian Waterway Park N. Tamiami Trail, Venice. ROUTE LAUNCH PONTS Shamrock Park and Nature Center A 0-mile long, -foot wide linear park The launch point is located at See map for additional launch points. 900 Shamrock Drive, Venice. with a paved trail that weaves its way Caspersen Beach Park. This trail loops Explore nature trails and have a picnic through Venice along the ntracoastal through the park traveling south along Caspersen Beach Park at this -acre park. Visit the popular Waterway (CW) to Caspersen Beach the ntracoastal Waterway. There are 00 Harbor Drive S., Venice. environmental center. This park also on the west side of the CW and to two creeks to explore along this trail From downtown Venice, take has picnic areas, a playground, and Shamrock Park on the east side of the Alligator Creek and Forked Creek. Harbor Drive south to the park. restrooms CW. There are picnic areas along the At the end of Harbor Drive turn scgov.net trail and opportunities to view wildlife. NAVGATONAL NOTES left to the bayside of the park. The scgov.net There are some areas along the trail launch is located on the east side that are very shallow at low tide. of the park. ENVRONMENT Use caution when paddling along Blind Pass Beach Park the ntracoastal Waterway. SEA TURTLES Manasota Road, Florida s Gulf beaches support Manasota. Go south on U.S. nesting activities for sea turtles SHORT TRPS to Route going south. Turn from the months of May through Mangrove Loop on the Bay Side right on Manasota Beach Road October. Female turtles come of Caspersen Beach Park toward Manasota. Once on the ashore during the summer This mangrove trail can be paddled key, go approximately four miles months to dig a nest in the in one hour or less. n this protected south until you come to the park. sand and lay their eggs. The mangrove habitat area you ll The launch is on the bayside of the turtle eggs will hatch in about fnd excellent birding and park at the south end. 0 days. Hatchlings dig their fshing opportunities. way out of the nest and crawl 0 Manasota Road, adult and hatchlings move away Manasota. from shadows and toward the Loggerhead sea turtle PADDLE TP Go south on U.S. to Route brighter horizon of the Gulf of Mexico. Lights on going south. Turn right on shore can disorient turtles, preventing them from USE CAUTON N Manasota Beach Road toward reaching the Gulf. Shorefront property owners OPEN WATER Coastal Manasota. Once on the key, should turn of or shield lights that can be seen areas in and around the take the frst left into the parking from the beach during the nesting season. bays can be subject to fast approaching thunderstorms and lightning in summer months, and high winds and waves in winter months. Stay close to shore. area on the bay side. Loggerhead sea turtle hatchling Help protect Florida s sea turtles and their coastal habitats. Never approach a sea turtle coming ashore or disturb a nesting sea turtle or hatchlings. Do not climb over the dunes or disturb vegetation, use designated walkways. f you see an injured or dead sea turtle call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) at or contact the Mote Marine Laboratory Stranding Program pager at For park hours of operation call the Sarasota County Contact Center:

18 Harbor Drive South CTY OF VENCE Caspersen Beach NTRACOASTAL WATERWAY SOUTH VENCE Alliga or Drive - Jacaranda Boulevard Venice E. Boulevard = = _ --=. Caspersen Trail - = =- ~~ ~- - ~ ~ -~-- South Tamiami Trail Alligator Creek 0 Approx. scale + N / E ective date: 0 Gulf of Mexico Miles mile NTRACOASTAL WATERWAY Manasota Beach Manasota Road Manasota Manasota Beach Road...,_/,/,/ Forked Creek " Blind Pass Beach,/ '.,,,- ' '-.:, Englewood Road Lemon Bay Old Englewood Road Brengle Avenue Curtis Boulevard Stewart Street LEGEND Most sites listed o er some amenities g Caspersen Beach Park -: BLUEWAY TRAL Mangroves CAUTON AREAS High Boat Tra c or Strong Currents LAUNCH PONTS Caspersen Beach Park Lemon Bay Park Blind Pass Beach Park LANDNG PONTS Water access only South Venice Lemon Bay Preserve Lemon Bay Park BOAT RAMPS All boat ramps accommodate canoe and kayak launch Manasota Beach PARKS Shamrock Park and Nature Center Woodmere Park South Venice Lemon Bay Preserve Manasota Beach Park Lemon Bay Park and Environmental Center Blind Pass Beach Park PONTS OF NTEREST Venetian Waterway Park Blind Pass Beach Nature Trail River Road ' Dearborn Street ENGLEWOOD

19 9 Lemon Bay Trail PONTS OF NTEREST paddling opportunities. Environmental Center nuire at the visitor s center. 0 Bay Park Blvd., Englewood checforida.org Lemon Bay Park and Environmental Center ATURE NOTES 0 Bay Park Blvd., Englewood. West ndian Manatees are A great destination when planning gentle, slow-moving mammals a paddle route. While exploring this and are a federally protected species. -acre park you can enjoy nature They mate and give birth to a single trails, pavilion, environmental classes, calf every two to three years. a butterfy garden, environmental center, and restrooms Manatees must come up to the surface scgov.net to breathe air. Collisions with watercraft cause most human-related Cedar Point Environmental Park manatee fatalities. 00 Placida Road, Englewood, Charlotte County. A -acre park that features an ROUTE LAUNCH PONTS environmental center, a picnic This trail begins at Manasota Beach See map for additional launch points. pavilion, fshing pier, playground, and and goes south into Charlotte marked nature trails. Environmental County ofering over 0 miles of Lemon Bay Park and classes and wading trips are ofered. NAVGATONAL NOTES Going south on U.S. take Route Stump Pass Beach State Park This trail is suited for novice to intermediate paddlers depending on weather conditions and tidal currents. Use caution when paddling in the ntracoastal Waterway. SHORT TRPS ndian Mound Park to Tom Adams Bridge (Englewood Road) to Old Englewood Road. Take a right, going west, at Stewart Street, turn right on Curtis Boulevard and left on Brengle Avenue. ndian Mound Park 0 Winson Ave., Englewood. Going south on U.S. take Route (Englewood Road) and continue south on Old This -acre park in Charlotte County consists of three islands and the protected channels between them. A great landing point The park is located at the southern end of Manasota and is accessible by land via the Tom Adams Bridge. foridastateparks.org This three-mile loop ofers a perfect ENVRONMENT opportunity to bring a fshing pole Englewood Road until you DOLPHNS AND MANATEES along as there is a bait shop at the come to West Dearborn Street Dolphins can be spotted year-round. Mothers and their calves can be found in the pier located on the east side of Tom and turn left, then turn right on shallow waters of the bays where they enjoy a plentiful meal of pinfsh, ladyfsh, Adams Bridge. North Green Street and then an and mullet. n the fall and winter, dolphins are more freuently found in the passes immediate right onto Winson and along the Gulf shorelines. ndian Mound Park to Stump Pass State Park An approximately fve-mile loop. Paddling south along the mangrove Avenue. The park is at the end of the road. Dolphins are marine mammals and can be susceptible to the efects of red tide. They are also endangered by marine debris such as fshing line which can entangle them and cause injury or death. Cedar Point coast you will have an easy paddle Environmental Park Manatees, sometimes called sea cows, are also marine mammals that periodically through mangrove islands that ofer wonderful bird viewing. PADDLE TP NECESSARY EQUPMENT - 00 Placida Road, Englewood, Charlotte County. Going south on U.S. take Route to Placida Road. Take a right, going south, and turn left onto South Pine Street to the end of the road. The launch point is located on Oyster Creek. surface to breathe. They are gray in color with a seal-like body that tapers to a fat, paddle-shaped tail. Manatees can reach weights of up to,000 pounds and lengths of more than 0 feet. Although generally slow moving, they can move with bursts of speed up to mph. Please observe dolphins and manatees from a distance. Hand bilge pump and large sponge to remove water from boat. nfatable bladders in open spaces of kayak or canoe for fotation of craft if taking (FWC) at: on water. f a manatee or dolphin appears injured or threatened in any way, contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission For park hours of operation call the Sarasota County Contact Center:

20 Manasota Beach Manasota Beach Road Englewood Road Lemon Bay Trail _ _:_ ~ - - ~ - --~ - = ~ - - LEGEND Most sites listed o er some amenities,,,,,..., BLUEWAY TRAL Mangroves CAUTON AREAS -~ High Boat Tra c or Strong Currents LAUNCH PONTS Lemon Bay Park Blind Pass Beach ndian Mound Park Cedar Point Environmental Park Manasota Beach.... /-...,,,,,; Stump Pass Beach State Park (Charlotte County) PARKS Manasota Beach : Lemon Bay Park and Environmental Center BOAT RAMPS All boat ramps accommodate canoe and kayak launch ndian Mound Park LANDNG PONTS Water access only Blind Pass Beach ndian Mound Park Cedar Point Environmental Park Stump Pass Beach State Park PONTS OF NTEREST Tom Adams Bridge (bait shop in area) Manasota Beach Road,/ / Forked Creek NTRACOASTAL WATERWAY Blind Pass Beach Curtis Boulevard Brengle Ave. Stewart Street Lemon Bay North Beach Road Old Englewood Beach North ndiana Avenue West Dearborn Street West Green Street Winson Avenue McCall Road Beach Road Tom Adams Bridge -, Gottfried Creek J ( Pine Street South Pine Street South River Road ENGLEWOOD Ainger Creek Oyster Creek GROVE CTY San Casa Road + / Gulf of Mexico Manasota NTRACOASTAL WATERWAY Placida Road SARASOTA COUNTY CHARLOTTE COUNTY 0 Approx. scale Effective date: 0 Miles mile Refer to Charlotte County Blueways Guide for more paddling trails south of Sarasota County.

21 0 Myakka River/ Carlton Trail ROUTE On this trail you will travel through the Myakka River State park which is one of Florida s largest and most diverse natural areas. The Sarasota County portion of the Myakka River was designated a Florida Wild and Scenic River by the state legislature in 9. The Myakka River fows through LAUNCH PONTS Myakka River State Park PONTS OF NTEREST Myakka River State Park 0 State Road, Sarasota. You ll fnd many opportunities to discover the beauty of Myakka River State Park. Brochures and information about what the park has to ofer are available at the park entrance. Stop by the Visitor s Center to view videos and exhibits of wildlife and their habitats. Explore the treetops on Myakka s Canopy Walkway and Tower. At the Ranger s Station, ask about wildlife boat or tram tour schedules, park programs, camping, canoe/kayak rentals, and bicycle rentals. The park has a concession and 0 State Road, Sarasota. gift shop, restrooms, picnic areas and From - take exit 0 (Route pavilions, and a fshing pier. Bait and ) west approximately 0 miles tackle, photo and camping supplies until you reach the park s main are available. There is an entrance fee entrance. There is a launch point collected at the park entrance. just past the frst picnic area after Park ofce 9-- ATU E NOTES Bass is a name shared by many diferent species of popular game fsh. The term encompasses both freshwater and marine species, many of which are native to North America and surrounding waters. T. Mabry Carlton, Jr. suare miles of wetlands, prairies, you enter the park. Follow Park foridastateparks.org/park/myakka-river Memorial Reserve hammocks, and pinelands. Drive to reach the second launch point located on the Upper ~~-L 00 Mabry Carlton Parkway, Venice. This reserve is approximately,000 Myakka Lake. There is a fee to Snook Haven acres and ofers picnic areas, a pavilion, NAVGATONAL NOTES enter the park. 000 E. Venice Ave., Venice. nature trails, restrooms, and a historic The technical difculty on this river This county park is a great place log cabin/visitor center. There are more is for intermediate to advanced T. Mabry Carlton, Jr. to relax and enjoy a piece of Old than 0 miles of primitive hiking trails canoeists and kayakers. Some areas Memorial Reserve Florida. The Snook Haven concession that run through large expanses of are protected and easy to paddle but other areas are open to the wind, currents, fooding, and subject to weather changes. During high water periods this river can be dangerous and difcult to navigate. There is a minimum speed, no-wake regulation for powerboats, and airboats are not permitted. 00 Mabry Carlton Parkway, includes a restaurant on the river, pine fatwoods, dry prairie, oak-palm Venice. From - take exit 9 canoe and kayak rentals, and a river hammocks and wetlands. (Jacaranda Boulevard) north to boat tour. Outdoor concerts held scgov.net Border Road turn right, the launch every weekend, check website for is located approximately three schedule miles east and is on the left when scgov.net you cross the river. Snook Haven ENVRONMENT 000 E. Venice Ave., Venice. FLORDA NATVE TREES From - take exit 9 onto Native trees have been part of SHORT TRPS North River Road. You will see the Florida s landscape for eons, Myakka River State Park Snook Haven sign in about one adapting to scorching sunlight, north entrance launch point mile on the left. Follow the dirt intermittent freezes, torrential road to the end. rains, long droughts, insects to Visitor Center Paddle south from the park s northern and fre. Once established, the right tree in the right place will launch point to the main entrance of PADDLE TP thrive on natural rainfall, without the park, just before reaching Route TRP LENGTH fertilizers or pesticides. t will also. This is an approximately -mile Allow a minimum of two miles attract and provide shelter and loop. (Note: There is an entry fee per per hour paddling time under food for birds, butterfies, and vehicle, per day.) normal conditions. other indigenous wildlife. PLANNNG Let someone know your plans, where you are going, who s with you, and when you plan to be back. Pine flatwoods at Jelks Preserve. For park hours of operation call the Sarasota County Contact Center:

22 SARASOTA Bee Ridge Road Proctor Road 0 Bee Ridge Road Extention Myakka River / Carlton Trail Upper Myakka Lake Clark Road 0 dam location (south entrance to park) Lower Myakka Lake LEGEND Most sites listed o er some amenities "" - Myakka Prairie - Myakka River State Park Pinelands Reserve Lyons Bay Venice Myakka River Park ~ Dona Bay T. Mabry Carlton, Jr. Memorial Reserve Roberts Bay ~ ~ 0 BLUEWAY TRAL Mangroves Exit Numbers LAUNCH PONTS Myakka River State Park T. Mabry Carlton, Jr. Memorial Reserve Snook Haven 0 BOAT RAMPS All boat ramps accommodate canoe and kayak launch PARKS Myakka River State Park Sleeping Turtles Preserve North Sleeping Turtles Preserve South Snook Haven Deer Prairie Creek Preserve Jelks Preserve / mile Approx. scale Effective date: 0 PONTS OF NTEREST Myakka River State Park Concession Area T. Mabry Carlton, Jr. Memorial Reserve Public Park Area Campgrounds (permit reuired) Miles Blackburn Point Bay OSPREY Gulf of Mexico VENCE 00 - s Lemon Bay Albee Farm Road Cur ry Cre ek 9 East Venice Avenue Center Road Laurel Road East South Tamiami Trail ~t ;;~,,;i. ---._ J acaranda Englewood Road Boulevard dam location Border Road 9 Myakka River 9 (commercial) 0 T. Mabry (commercial) Carlton Parkway 9 North River Road.,) ( NORTH PORT Myakkahatchee Creek

23 Myakka River / Myakkahatchee Creek Trails PONTS OF NTEREST Butler Park 0 West Price Blvd., North Port. Butler Park amenities include: a canoe launch, concession area, a large pavilion and picnic area. There are little league felds, a playground, restrooms, and two soccer felds scgov.net Jelks Preserve 00 N. River Road, Venice. Jelks Preserve has a.-mile loop nature trail that will take you through a mosaic of native habitats from scrubby fatwoods to oak hammocks ROUTE LAUNCH PONTS and pine fatwoods and seasonal The river and creek are located See map for additional launch points. marshes. Look for gopher tortoise between Venice and North Port burrows, wildfowers, and pileated and fow into Charlotte Harbor. Butler Park woodpeckers. The hiking trails are t is believed that the name 0 West Price Blvd., North Port. limited to foot trafc only. water or big river. Approximately Boulevard. Turn left on Price Myakkahatchee Creek 0,000 years ago this creek, with its Boulevard until you come to the Environmental Park Myakkahatchee is derived from the From U.S., take Sumter scgov.net Seminole language meaning big Boulevard north to Price surrounding forest hammock, was a prime hunting spot for Paleo ndians, according to archaeological evidence. park s entrance on the left. 9 Reistertown Road, North Port. The Myakkahatchee Creek Myakka State Forest Environmental Park consists of S. River Road, North Port. 0-acres of mostly shady oak 00 San Servando Ave., NATURE NOres American alligator habitat includes ponds, streams, swamps, rivers, freshwater and brackish marshes, mangrove, swamps, canals, and lakes. As rare as it may be, they also can be found in the Gulf. USE CAUTON - Always keep your distance when a gator is encountered. Warm Mineral Springs Today it represents an important part From U.S., take South River hammock on both sides of the creek. North Port. n 9, Warm Mineral of the local water supply system. Road left to River Road. Turn left, This park ofers a rare opportunity to Springs was placed on the National and the entrance is on the right. enjoy an Old Florida experience of a Register of Historic Places. Visitors NAVGATONAL NOTES Follow Slash Pine Trail until you blackwater creek. t features birding, come from around the world to soak When paddling the Myakkahatchee reach the river. canoeing, hiking, picnicking, and in the mineral-rich waters which bicycling. There is also a nature trail maintain a temperature of degrees and restroom facilities. year-round scgov.net cityofnorthport.com/visitors/visit- north-port/warm-mineral-springs Creek be aware that north of Price Boulevard the creek is constricted with varying water levels. There are also numerous portages that may be reuired depending on the water levels. Under the - overpass you may encounter rocky areas. Traveling south of Price Boulevard on Myakkahatchee Creek is suitable for novice paddlers. SHORT TRPS Butler Park to Myakka State Forest This trail provides a -mile loop to reach the section of the state forest that is northeast of the Myakka River. Approximately one mile into the journey you will have a portage around a dam. PADDLE TP DRNKNG WATER Bring at least gallon per person/per day. FOOD Bring food and gear in watertight containers tied to your boat. HYPOTHERMA Warning signs include uncontrolled shivering, slurred speech, lack of coordination, and poor concentration. Get the victim into a shelter and remove wet clothes. Give fuids and food until warmed. Hypothermia can even occur in summer with wind and rain. For park hours of operation call the Sarasota County Contact Center:

24 ' -MVAKKA RVER/MVAKKAHAtCHf ~ - ~ - fl - -~ ~ Estate Drive acauton AREAS o,very difficult navigation ' ' ' ' LEGEND Most sites listed offer some amenities, -' BLUEWAYTRAL Mangroves CAUTON AREAS Q High BoatTraffic or Strong Currents ll Exit Numbers~ LAUNCH PONTS Snook Haven Butler Park Myakka State Forest Price Boulevard ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' Price Boulevard BOAT RAMPS All boat ramps accommodate canoe and kayak launch 0 Marina Park --PARKS 0 Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park NORTH f) Sleeping Turtles Preserve South PORT Snook Haven 0 Deer Prairie Creek Preserve 0 Jelks Preserve 0 Oaks Park f) Butler Park 0 Myakka State Forest -o a: East River Road l t-----"'"""---..:..._ PONTS OF NTEREST ~ Warm Mineral Springs a: ~ Campground (permit reuired) :::J 0 Vl Tamiam; Trail Chancellor Boulevard CHARLOTTE COUNTY + Refer to Charlotte County Approx. scale Miles Blueways Guide for more Effective date: 0 paddling trails south of Sarasota County.

25 PADDLE TP REQURED BY LAW Flotation gear. Florida law reuires a United States Coast Guard (USCG) approved, readily accessible and wearable personal fotation device (PFD) for each occupant. PFD s must be worn by all occupants under six years of age. Marine whistle, bell, or horn (USCG approved). Orange smoke signals, or red fares (only reuired at night). Flashlight and extra batteries are recommended. A Florida fshing license is reuired for persons years of age and older. All canoes with motors must be registered. All canoes longer than feet must be titled. Enjoy Sarasota s beautiful blueways, play it safe and know the water. Monofilament Recovery and Recycling Program The Monoflament Recovery and Recycling Program (MRRP) is a statewide efort to educate the public about the problems caused by monoflament fshing line left in the environment as it can cause injuries to wildlife. This program encourages the use of recycling bins and drop-of locations, and conducts volunteer monoflament cleanup events. Outdoor recycling bins are mounted at many piers, boat ramps and marinas throughout the state. ndoor recycling bins are hosted by tackle shops and department stores. To learn more about the program and the efects that monoflament line has on our wildlife, visit: mrrp.myfwc.com Top to bottom: Monoflament fshing line recycling bin, Great blue herons building a nest, Bottlenose dolphins, manatee.

26 RESOURCE DRECTORY ASSSTANCE Sarasota County Contact Center scgov.net Sherif s Ofce Emergency... 9 Non-emergency. Report crime or incident Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Wildlife Alert Hotline (FWCC) Text option for reporting a violation... Tip@MyFWC.com Manatee and marine turtle collision; rescue and recovery. Also for reporting fshing violations, boating accidents, and marine mammal injuries or strandings. U.S. Coast Guard Rescue or For search and rescue assistance...vhf Channel ; Emergency Cell *CG. PROGRAMS (marine resource info) Florida Department of Environmental Protection Ofce of Greenways & Trails (FL Circumnavigational Paddling Trail)... dep.state.f.us Florida Sea Grant fseagrant.org Florida Sportswater Fishing Fishing License... myfwc.com/license Mote Marine Laboratory and Auarium For assistance with injured marine mammals or sea turtles...mote.org NOAA Weather Service Broadcast hour weather and marine forecast....kz/vh Sarasota Bay Estuary Program sarasotabay.org West Coast nland Navigation District For information on the Gulf ntracoastal Waterway OUTFTTERS & ECOTOUR OPERATORS Please search online for Canoes and Kayaks for local canoe and kayak outftters and eco-tour operators. PADDLNG CLUBS Please search online for local paddling clubs.

27 Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources