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For residents and visitors of Vero Beach looking to disconnect from their screens and reconnect with nature, the phrase “touching grass” takes on a literal and scenic meaning in Indian River County. A new feature highlights five premier locations across the Treasure Coast that offer accessible trails, diverse ecosystems, and serene landscapes perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
From the sandy scrublands of Wabasso to the expansive marshlands of Fort Drum, these locations showcase the unique biodiversity of our local environment. Whether you are looking for a quick one-mile loop or a more extensive hike through 21,000 acres of wilderness, Indian River County provides ample opportunity to explore the outdoors.
The selected locations highlight the diverse topography of the region, ranging from coastal sub-tropical hammocks and mangrove swamps to dry prairies and pine flatwoods.
Here are the five top spots to explore in Indian River County:
Wabasso Scrub Conservation Area: Situated on 111 acres, this location features a manageable 1-mile trail. Hikers can expect to traverse through a variety of native Florida landscapes, including sand pine and scrub oak, scrubby flatwoods, wet prairies, and pine flatwoods. It is also a known habitat for the Florida Scrub-Jay.
Toni Robinson Waterfront Trail: Located in Vero Beach, this 157-acre site offers a scenic 1-mile trail. The path guides visitors through oaks and scrub forest before leading to the Indian River Lagoon. A highlight of this location is the shaded boardwalk that winds through a classic Florida mangrove swamp.
Oyster Bar Marsh Conservation Area: Also located in Vero Beach, this 96-acre conservation area is defined by its mangrove impoundment. It features a longer 3-mile trek known as the Mini-Botany Trail, offering expansive views and interaction with the ecosystem along the Indian River Lagoon.
Fort Drum Marsh Conservation Area: By far the largest location on the list, this Wildlife Management Area spans an impressive 21,000 acres. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore 5 miles of trails that cut through dry prairie, pine flatwoods, hardwood swamp, and freshwater marsh, providing a true backcountry experience.
Sebastian Inlet State Park: A staple of the Treasure Coast, this 1,000-acre park offers 5 miles of trails. The terrain here is distinctively coastal, featuring sub-tropical palm and oak hammocks running alongside mangroves, making it a picturesque destination for both hiking and wildlife observation.
These designated conservation areas and parks serve as vital reminders of the natural beauty preserved within Indian River County, offering free and accessible ways for the community to enjoy the local environment.
