Nothing beats an energizing hike in magnificent Split Oak Forest on a crisp fall morning. I hiked the northern portion of Split Oak Forest and viewed two deer right off the trail. A great way to start the day!
Florida Deer
Sabal Point Sanctuary
After planning to hike Sabal Point Sanctuary for more than a year or so now, we finally got the opportunity to sample this scenic Florida wilderness area last week and were not disappointed! Encompassing more than 600 acres, Sabal Point Sanctuary features a linear 3.5-mile hiking and biking trail that starts at a small parking area within a Longwood neighborhood. Wildlife that call Sabal Point Sanctuary home include deer, otters, wild turkeys, limpkins and even black bears. Due to time constraints, we only did about a 3-mile hike. Unfortunately, we didn’t see any wildlife on this outing, but we will be back soon!
Return to Lake Harney

Ideally located along the scenic St. Johns River, Lake Harney Wilderness Area is the perfect spot to get some exercise, view wildlife (I almost always see deer out here in the early morning) and social distance (I hardly ever run across anyone else out here during my hikes). There’s even an observation deck for a sweeping view of Lake Harney itself and the surrounding area. So, what are you waiting for? Mark Lake Harney Wilderness Area down on your calendar and get out in the great outdoors!
Riverbend Park, Jupiter
Two days. Thirteen miles. 11 deer sightings. Many osprey sightings, among other bird species. Riverbend Park. Jupiter. Don’t miss it!
Split Oak Forest
I hiked about six miles at Split Oak Forest, first heading South along the North/South Trail and then taking the Lake Loop Trail that winds by Bonnet Pond and Lake Hart. A very enjoyable hike and I saw two deer and two Sherman’s fox squirrels. An amazing wilderness area, Split Oak Forest deserves to be preserved for future generations to enjoy!















