Bike Ride at GTM Research Reserve

We will ride for approximately 5.5 miles along unpaved trails, which can be somewhat uneven and bumpy, with slight elevation changes. Some areas may be muddy and wet. We will be riding at a moderate pace, that’s comfortable for the group. E-bikes are welcome, but you must be willing to ride at the pace of the group. We will be stopping for breaks and at scenic points. Helmets are required and must be worn while riding on the trail. Minors must be accompanied by an adult 18-years-old or over. Children must be able to follow instructions and ride at an adult pace. No pets allowed. This activity is of medium intensity.

NOTE: You are required to sign our Participation Agreement to participate in our outings. To save time the day of the hike, we encourage you to sign the agreement online ahead of time at:
https://act.sierraclub.org/events/details?formcampaignid=701Po00001Fhj7LIAR

A paper copy will also be available at the outing.

We will meet at the trail parking area. There is a $3 entrance fee per vehicle for up to 8 people. $1 per pedestrian, bicyclist, and extra passengers in vehicles beyond 8. Bike rentals are available. It is recommended that you call in advance to reserve at South Guana Outpost: 904-373-0306. Or book online at northguanaoutpost.com/bookings . The cost for a (3 hour) rental is $30. All bikes are adjustable to fit any rider. Bike rentals include a helmet.

Bring water, bug spray, sunscreen, hat/helmet. You must wear your helmet while riding. Please arrive at least 15 minutes before start time for pre-outing activities and sign-in.

*Optional* After the bike ride, participants can tour the visitor center.
Address: 505 Guana River Road, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
Phone: (904) 380-8600

The GTM Research Reserve is one of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Estuarine Research Reserves. The Reserve is managed by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Office of Resilience and Coastal Protection. It’s been established as a protected area for long-term monitoring, research, education and stewardship. It includes 74,000 acres of conservation lands and waters from Ponte Vedra to Palm Coast. It serves to protect and provide for a great diversity of plants, animals and cultural resources by using research to guide science-based stewardship and education.

### Directions

From St. Augustine:
● From US Hwy 1 (Ponce De Leon Blvd)
● Turn onto W San Carlos Ave. (at the Public Library)
● Left at San Marco
● Merge into the Right lane onto N May Ave/A1A N
● Continue over the Vilano Bridge
● Turn left onto A1A North, continue for 7.5 miles
● Turn left onto Guana River Road (just north of Exxon Gas Station)
From Jacksonville:
● Take FL 202/Butler Blvd. East
● Take the A1A S Exit toward Ponte Vedra/St. Augustine
● Continue on A1A South for 16.8 Miles (note- you will pass the 3 beach access points along this stretch of A1A)
● Turn right onto Guana River Road (if you reach the Exxon gas station, you have gone too far)
After you turn onto Guana River Road, continue straight. Stop at the pay station to pay the vehicle fee as posted. After the pay station, you will reach the Guana Dam parking lot. To reach the trails, continue past that parking lot onto a dirt road that will lead you to the trail parking area.

Sierra Club maintains a safe space agreement between participants, leaders, volunteers, and staff. We want to support everyone in exploring, enjoying, and protecting our natural environment, and hateful and dangerous behavior will not be tolerated. We don’t want to deny participation in these outdoor programs and we will always say no to racism, sexism, ageism, homophobia, impairment, and disruption. We request that all participants cooperate with the outing leader's direction to ensure a safe and enjoyable outing for everyone.