Wagner Realty
August
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Dog-Friendly Hiking in Sarasota and Bradenton
Hiking is a great activity that lets you spend quality time with your precious pet while you both stay in shape. Take in the glorious sights around Sarasota and Bradenton at these dog-friendly trails recommended by our real estate agents.
- Circus Hammock - 4572 17th St., Sarasota, FL 34235
Nature and wildlife are probably not the first things that come to mind when you hear the name, Circus Hammock. The term is a nod to the area's connection with the famous Ringling Brothers Circus and early inhabitants of Florida, who referred to forested wetlands as "hammocks." The 22-acre preserve includes a loop of just under one mile suitable for all family members. Bring a guidebook and challenge the kids to identify the birds you'll likely see along the way. Hours are 6 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. daily. - Lemon Bay Park - 570 Bay Park Blvd., Englewood, FL 34223
Lemon Bay Park, located just minutes from Englewood homes for sale, features trails that accommodate hikers of all experience levels. Lemon Bayshore Trail is an easy 0.7-mile loop with a boardwalk across the water. This route connects to Eagle Trail, which combines with Flatwood Trail to form a 3.6-mile, fairly challenging hike. Live oaks, cabbage palms, and slash pines are just a few of the trees found in the park, along with the occasional bald eagle. Park hours are 6 a.m. - sunset, seven days a week. - Urfer Family Park - 4012 Honore Ave., Sarasota, FL 34233
Urfer Family Park isn't far from Sarasota homes for sale, but visitors consider it to be a hidden gem. Majestic, centuries-old live oaks and magnolia trees grace the 55-acre site that once served as a cattle ranch. A one-mile nature trail passes through beautiful wooded areas, with a boardwalk that overlooks wetlands. Sights to watch for include orchids, palm trees, birds, and wildlife. A large grassy area makes for a de facto dog park and occasional soccer field. Urfer Family Park is open daily from 6 a.m. - 10 p.m. - Robinson Preserve - 10299 9th Ave. NW, Bradenton, FL 34209
Thanks to a recent expansion, Robinson Preserve now encompasses nearly 700 acres of coastal habitats near Bradenton homes for sale. Three miles of paved trails and five miles of shell and coastal trails provide ample opportunity to explore the various habitats, including saltern, marsh, and mangrove. Robinson Preserve is considered one of the top spots for bird-watching, with "residents" such as roseate spoonbills, white pelicans, and bald eagles. Pack a lunch (and doggie biscuits!) to enjoy in the picnic area. Hours are sunrise to sunset daily. - Celery Fields - 6893 Palmer Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34240
Celery Fields may sound like a charming, bucolic farm, but it's actually a dog-friendly park that's part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail. The 300-acre facility does double duty as Sarasota County's primary stormwater collection zone. As a result, the grounds include several marshlands, deep ponds, shallow pools, and canals. Sightings of more than 240 species of birds have been recorded, including flycatchers, which are rare in Florida. Just over six miles of trails feature boardwalk observation decks and scenic overlooks. Celery Fields is open seven days a week from 6 a.m. - sunset.
The Bradenton and Sarasota lifestyle is perfect for the two- and four-legged members of your family. Contact us at Wagner Realty for experienced help buying or selling a home.