Listen to your heart and explore the outdoors through St. Lucie County’s Environmental Resources Department’s award-winning guided nature program series. With more than 11,000 acres of protected land to discover, it’s easy to fall in love with wild Florida. Nature trails are the perfect setting to connect with others who share your love for the outdoors. Don’t just walk the trails—let them lead you to new connections.
Scheduled programs for February include:
- Saturday, Feb. 1 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. – Wildlife Spotting Walk at George LeStrange Preserve. Join an enchanting 1.5-mile scenic trail and focus on the vibrant world of local wildlife from the melodic songs of native birds to the subtle movements of reptiles basking in the warmth of the sun. Discover the fascinating behaviors, habitats and unique adaptations of the diverse species that call this preserve home.
- Saturday, Feb. 1 from 9 to 10 a.m. - Walking Trees and Changing Seas Walk at Donald B. Moore Preserve. Come along on this nature walk and learn all about some of our most important native plants: Mangroves. How do they grow in saltwater? How many species do we have in Florida? Why are they incredibly important for humans? If you’re curious about the answers to these questions and more, sign up and join in on the fun.
- Wednesday, Feb. 5 from 9 to 11 a.m. – Fire in the Wild Hike at Lake Indrio Preserve. While fire is often seen as destructive, in Florida’s ecosystems, it plays a vital and rejuvenating role. Join an enlightening walk through an area that has recently undergone a prescribed burn and discover the essential benefits fire brings to these wild landscapes. As you explore the charred remnants, you’ll witness firsthand how fire clears away dense underbrush, nourishes the soil and fosters new growth, creating a thriving environment for a variety of plant and animal species. Learn how this natural process helps maintain the health and balance of Florida’s habitats, promoting biodiversity and ensuring the survival of fire-dependent plants. It's an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of how fire, when managed carefully, is an invaluable tool in preserving and enriching the beauty of our wild spaces.
- Saturday. Feb. 8 from 9 to 11 a.m. – Looking Ahead; Looking Backward in Time Walk at Indian Hills Recreation Area. Join this relaxing paved trail (wheelchair accessible) walk through wetlands and along a lake. Learn how wetlands mirror early Florida and how it performs important ecosystem services. This easy stroll over level ground will show you how we use Mother Nature to help us clean up our messes, but how we are also messing up Mother Nature.
- Tuesday, Feb. 11 from 9 a.m. to noon – Wings and Water Paddle at Richard E. Becker Preserve. Explore all things with wings while we paddle the St. Lucie River. This unique kayaking experience will have you on the lookout for a diverse array of creatures with wings— from graceful birds soaring above to colorful insects flitting around, and even mysterious bats hiding in the shadows. No experience necessary. All equipment provided. You are welcome to bring your own kayak, canoe or paddleboard if you prefer.
- Friday, Feb. 14 from 9 to 10:30 a.m. - Spring Stroll at Sweetwater Hammock Preserve. Many migratory birds are present in Florida now and native vegetation is sporting spring foliage and flowers. This program is intended as a leisurely stroll through this charming preserve, affording opportunities to stop, look and listen for birdsong, take in the view of the St. Lucie River and see spring bloom.
- Saturday, Feb. 15 from 8 to 9:30 a.m. – Florida’s Wading Birds Hike at D.J. Wilcox Preserve. Come learn about wading bird biology and nesting as you enjoy the sights and sounds of D.J. Wilcox Preserve. This preserve boasts one mile of interpretive trail and is home to flatwood, hammock and swamp habitats. Species discussed will include our native herons, egrets, spoonbills, wood storks and more.
- Wednesday, Feb. 19 from 8 to 10 a.m. – Early Bird Hike at Lake Indrio Preserve. Part of the Great Florida Birding Trail this area is home to numerous species of resident and migrating birds. From the common Mourning Dove and Pileated Woodpecker to the threatened Florida Scrub Jay, check off some new bird species on your life list. Test your luck and see how many species you can spot. Perfect for both amateur and experienced birders. Be sure to bring your binoculars.
- Friday, Feb. 21 from 9 to 10:30 a.m. - Ancient Ones Stroll at Ancient Oaks Preserve. Tree admiration figures prominently in this program, with the objective of viewing, photographing and the gorgeous trees backlit in sunlight as we enjoy the weather and the sounds of nature.
- Friday, Feb. 21 from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. - Wings and Water Paddle at Richard E. Becker Preserve. Explore all things with wings while we paddle the St. Lucie River. This unique kayaking experience will have you on the lookout for a diverse array of creatures with wings from graceful birds soaring above to colorful insects flitting around and even mysterious bats hiding in the shadows. No experience necessary. All equipment provided. You are welcome to bring your own kayak, canoe or paddleboard if you prefer.
- Saturday, Feb. 22 from 9:30 to 11:30 p.m. – Florida’s Invasive Species Stroll at Donald B. Moore Preserve. Delve into the complexities of Florida’s ecosystems and uncover the growing challenge posed by invasive plant and animal species. Explore how these non-native invaders disrupt delicate habitats, outcompeting native species for resources and altering the natural balance of our landscapes. Learn how to identify these species in the wild and discover effective strategies for managing and mitigating their spread. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or a concerned local, this experience will provide you with the knowledge and tools to make a meaningful impact in safeguarding Florida’s wild spaces.
- Saturday, Feb. 22 from 10 a.m. to noon - Love at First Sight: The Romantic Side of Mammal Courtship Hike at Oxbow Preserve. Join us for a delightful walk along the trails at the Oxbow as we explore the fascinating world of mammal courtship behaviors. Just like we’ve celebrated our own romantic rituals for Valentine’s Day, we’ll dive into the unique ways various mammal species woo their mates. We will compare different types of mammals (think big vs small, predator vs prey) and even compare these behaviors to those of birds, revealing the surprising and sometimes humorous similarities and differences. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a lover of all things romantic, this walk promises to be both educational and entertaining.
- Friday, Feb. 28 from 10 a.m. to noon – Wildlife Spotting Stroll at Indian Hills Preserve. Got a camera and a desire to photograph wildlife and blooming plants? Birds, fish, alligators and even river otters are known to turn up in the wetlands portion of this site. This program is designed to be a group spotting activity affording an opportunity to photograph "the view" of seasonal plants and ever-present wildlife.
Visit www.SLChikes.org to register. For more information, call the Environmental Resources staff at 772-462-2536 or email slchikes@stlucieco.org. Nature hikes are free; however, reservations are required as space is limited. Kayak paddles are $20 per person with all equipment provided. Reservations are required as space is limited. The Guided Nature Program season runs from October through June. There are various topics, locations and distances all designed for different ages and abilities.
