Wildlife Trails

Creef Cut Wildlife Trail is a half-mile, universally-accessible trail that's ideal for school groups or families, as well as individuals. A kiosk at the trailhead provides information about the refuge and the habitats and wildlife that occur.

Also at the trailhead is a universally-accessible fishing platform. Since there is a canal that links this site directly with South Lake, there is a constant supply of crappie, bluegill, and other freshwater fish. A state fishing license is required.

Interpretive signs along the trail identify vegetation types or wildlife that may be seen in the area.

A 200-foot boardwalk takes visitors out onto the freshwater marsh to the north of the trail. On the south, an overlook provides viewing of the Creef Moist Soil management area where waterfowl, raptors, and other migratory birds can be seen.

Sandy Ridge Wildlife Trail is also a half-mile trail, but takes visitors through very different habitats than Creef Cut Wildlife Trail. This trail consists of an earthen path and 2300 feet of boardwalk through a cypress swamp. The trail is very appropriate for wheelchairs or baby strollers; however, it is not advertised as universally-accessible due to several 1-2 inch steps.

A small portion of the paddling trails parallel Sandy Ridge Trail, so you'll often see paddlers going by....

Sphagnum moss beds, Atlantic white cedar, sun dews, and prothonotary warblers are among the highlights of this trail. You may even see an American alligator here!