Let's Hike T. Mabry Carlton Jr. Memorial Reserve!

Carrie Dill, an Environmental Specialist with Sarasota County, will lead us on an 8-mile hike that includes some nature facts as well as some park history!

We will meet at the public parking area for Carlton Reserve. (It's the first parking lot on the right when you enter the park.) We'll be hiking a loop trail to the Homestead backcountry campsite. We will observe diverse natural communities including dry prairie, pine flat woods, mesic hammocks, and seasonal wetlands (although most are dry at the moment). We have the opportunity to see wading birds, alligator, deer, bobcat, coyote, wild hogs, along with a variety of wildflowers. We'll take a break about 4 miles into the hike for a rest and a snack.

The first half of the hike will be very sunny, but there will be a bit of shade on the return trip. Most trails will be hard-packed, but we'll experience some soft sand too. There are restrooms at the parking lot area only.

Please bring plenty of water, a hat, sunscreen, snacks, and whatever else you need to make your hike comfortable. Sturdy hiking shoes are a must.

Consider bringing a picnic lunch for socializing afterward! If you have any questions, please call Carrie at 740-632-3917.