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 Reporter |
Summary: Lake Manatee State Park is a perfect example of the quiet and relaxed atmosphere that some of Florida's natural areas have to offer. Today, the 2,400 acre reservoir that makes up Lake Manatee supplies drinking water to Manatee and Sarasota Counties. Services Offered: Boat Ramp , Fishing, Full Facility Camping and Multiple Hiking Trails. Hiking trails traverse several types of ecosystems including mesic flatwoods and sand pine scrub. We saw many gopher tortoises on the trail. A variety of other animals are common including Indigo snakes, cottontail and marsh rabbits, bobcats, gray foxes, deer, and eagles. Homepage: http://www.floridastateparks.org/lakemanatee/default.asp It gets HOT HOT HOT on the trail so bring PLENTY of water!! Trailhead: Driving Directions Take exit 220 off of I-75. Lake Manatee State Park is located 9 miles east of I-75 on State Road 64 in Bradenton, Florida. Hours of Operation Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year. Park Fees $2.00 (Lat:27.47529 Lon:-82.33578) Trail Guides for Gopher Trail - Loop: Hiking Florida by M. Timothy OKeefe (Falcon Publishing) Fishing Florida by Kris Thoemke (Falcon Publishing) FLORIDA- OFF THE BEATEN PATH A GUIDE TO UNIQUE PLACES by Diane and Bill Gleasner (Globe Pequot Press) Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, Winter, User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Bikes, Horses, Ranger Contact: Park Manager: William Wolbert - 941-741-3028 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Dean Traiger MD, who has posted 3 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Submit your own review Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: Florida Hiking, Florida Trails, Florida Hikes, Manatee County Hiking, Manatee County Trails, Manatee County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
