Flagler County Land Management is doubling the number of participants allowed on its popular “A Walk in the Park” guided tour series from eight to 16 people due to growing demand over the past three years.
The next walk will take place at Shell Bluff Park on Nov. 19 at 9 a.m. The tour is limited to 16 registered participants, who are asked to arrive at 8:45 a.m. for a safety briefing and additional details about the 90-minute hike.
Tour Details
Forestry Supervisor Ralph Risch will guide the walk at Shell Bluff Park, located at 14331 State Road 100 in Bunnell. The hike is described as “easy” and follows a dedicated foot trail system and vehicle access drives.
“The hike is about 1.1 miles in length through mixed hardwood-baldcypress swamp forest and hardwood-loblolly pine wet flatwoods. Halfway through, we’ll stop by the shores of Crescent Lake,” Risch said. “We will see many plant species unique to these habitats. The massive size of the loblolly pines here is impressive, as the area likely hasn’t been logged since the late 1800s.”
Participants can expect to see wildflowers and their pollinating insects, including butterflies, bees, and beetles.
“We’ll see some of Florida’s resident birds and listen to them singing and calling,” Risch said. “If we get lucky, we may see a snake or two or hear the breeding calls of native frog species.”
Registration and Requirements
Participants must register online by creating an account and signing two waivers: a liability waiver and a photo/video release waiver.
Those participating should prepare for a two-hour hike and bring a water bottle. Long pants and closed-toe shoes are required. Sunscreen and insect repellent are recommended, as mosquitoes may be present. Binoculars are suggested for enhanced bird watching. Participants should dress for the weather conditions, which could be cold and rainy or warm and sunny.
“Also, the park is a nice place to picnic when we’re done,” Risch said. “Consider bringing a lunch or snacks, if you wish.”
Directions
To reach Shell Bluff Park, drive west on State Route 100 from Bunnell for 13.6 miles to the park entrance on the left. A brown park entrance sign on the right side of the highway will indicate where to turn. Follow the park entrance road for 0.2 miles to the parking area near Little Pond. Risch will be waiting there.
