Today was a perfect Solstice hike to three different parks, River to Sea Preserve, Washington Oaks Gardens, and Betty Steflik Preserve. The parks weren’t crowded; it’s kind of shoulder season for Florida, being just before Christmas. The visitors tend to arrive after the holidays.

Since I waited until the schools were open (no buses) and commute was done, there was hardly any traffic on my way to the beach.

I was the only one at River to Sea… which I much prefer so I can soak up the wonderful presence of the grand oak hammock there.

When I arrived at Washington Oaks, I noticed their beach access was still closed off. In the past, the dunes have been damaged by storm surge and we just endured two hurricanes in the area this past season. Bella Vista Nature Walk was also still closed, completely taped off. I asked the lady at the booth about the progress. I could see for myself they’re having to use heavy equipment to remove some of the large trees that had fallen in the latest set of hurricanes. I also hiked down Mala Compra Trail. There was a maintenance fellow pulling out palm fronds and broken branches from the underbrush. The path is just wide enough to drive a small skid steer tractor down it or a utility vehicle.

Betty Steflik Preserve was pretty quiet too, except for the cry of an osprey overhead and the hum / roar of traffic crossing the Moody Blvd. Bridge (SR 100).

All in all, it was a lovely peaceful outing in perfect Florida weather (57 to 63 F ).

Eliza

https://sunnysjournal.com

P.S. In keeping with the holidays, I’m going to be posting less. I think everyone is feeling the fatigue from information overload particularly here in the United States. Enjoy your holidays.