NATURE TRAILS
Nature Trails
FOLLOW THE RULES FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE VISIT
Briggs Boardwalk
The half-mile boardwalk is a self-directed nature trail passing through five unique habitats from scrub to brackish ponds.
Signs along the walk describe the flora and fauna in each community and with every twist and turn you may spot some rare birds, unique plants and other animals. Enjoy the Observation Deck where you can over look just a small piece of Rookery Bay’s beauty.
Monument Trail
Monument Point Trail begins near the end of the Shell Mound Trail at the Shell Island Road boat ramp and leads visitors to the Children’s Monument on the bank of Henderson Creek. The monument recognizes the efforts of school children involved in helping to raise initial funds for purchasing core lands around Rookery Bay in the 1960’s. This trail is frequently used by visitors to access recreational fishing on the creek.
Shell Mound Trail
The Shell Mound Trail starts at the RBNERR field station. The trail follows a mangrove fringing shoreline adjacent to pre-Calusa midden sites, historical sites and an active habitat restoration project in progress. Visitors can learn about native peoples and pioneers who previously lived in the Rookery Bay area, as well as the role of the local community in establishing the Reserve, through self-guided interpretive signs. NOTICE: trails are currently overgrown and not suitable for hiking. Please check back for updates.
