Little Manatee River State Park Trail

Little Manatee River State Park protects one of the most pristine blackwater rivers in Southwest Florida, with trails exploring diverse habitats from scrubby flatwoods to river bluffs and bottomland forests. The trail system climbs sandy ridges for river overlooks, descends to the water’s edge where river otters and alligators patrol, and winds through habitats supporting gopher tortoises, scrub jays, and numerous other species. The Little Manatee River supports healthy populations of manatees, snook, and tarpon, and its dark tannin-stained waters create striking visual contrasts with the white sand bottom. The park’s relative remoteness ensures a peaceful experience, while the varied terrain provides more topographic interest than most Florida trails.