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A Local Hiking Treasure: Emerson Point

By Ashley Bowder January 15, 2021

My family and I have been enjoying nature hikes at Emerson Point Preserve and want to inspire your family to take a hike at Emerson, too! Emerson Point Preserve sits at the west end of Snead Island in Palmetto, FL- a short drive from Sarasota or Bradenton. There are miles of shady trails to wander, where you are sure to encounter beautiful trees laced with Spanish moss, jungle-like vines, diverse Florida wildlife and overall a true hiking experience.  It is common to see land turtles roaming along the paths, butterflies fluttering overhead, and scurring crabs on the boardwalks covering the estuary. In addition to hiking the trails, the park is perfect for biking, kayaking, fishing, swimming and picnicking.  

Where to start?  When entering the park, the first parking area past the entrance is a great spot to begin your journey.  You'll have an opportunity to brush up on your Florida Native American history and learn new facts along the way. Don't miss the historic Portavant Mound, there is a ramp leading up to the top where drawings of the history of the coastal Native Americans is depicted on large signs.  The educational signs are just right for young learners as they can easily view how the plants, shells, and animal bones were used by the Native Americans in everyday life hundreds of years ago.  Additionally, there is an automated tour that is available and even more information can be found at the visitors center.

Point of Interest:  Emerson Point Preserve's Observation Tower, where you'll take in a stunning view of the Terra Ceia Bay and Tampa Bay and usually there is a clear view of the Skyway Bridge.  When we are finished exploring the trails near the Visitors Center we hop in the car and drive to the next parking lot on the right side of the road.  Follow the short path on the boardwalk atop the brackish waterway, which will lead you to another dirt path leading up to the Observation Tower.  When you are finished viewing the tower views, there are trails through the magroves you can branch off to, or simply head back the way you came.  

Swimming:  If you go during swimming season, all the way down to the furthest point you can drive to, there are spots to enjoy a dip in the water.  If you're not up for swimming, the coastline provides an absolutely gorgeous walk along the point or the sandy shores.  There is a small covered pavilion for picnicking and benches to sit on and enjoy views of the bay.  

I hope seeing our pictures and hearing about our experience at Emerson Point Preserve will be a catalyst to taking your own trip to explore this local hiking treasure! With that, I'll leave you with a fun fact below~

Nature fun fact: Spanish moss is not a moss, but a bromeliad.  There is a very small piece of Spanish Moss that is edible, although I don't recommend it.  Look for Spanish Moss on your hike.  It's an easy plant for kids to identify and get them excited about learning how to identify others plants.    

 Until next time- See you on the trail, friends!