If you’re looking to get off the beaten path in Clearwater and away from the crowds – consider visiting the local Kapok Park [2950 Glen Oak Ave N, Clearwater, FL 33759]. There are stretches of paved trails great for a run or stroll and a connection to the 13 mile Ream Wilson trail if you’re looking to extend your exercise.
You’ll find idyllic cypress swamps
and oaks draped with Spanish moss.
The birding was wonderful early in the morning and you can find identification plaques to learn more about them.
As you cross bridges over lakes you’ll notice turtles noticing you. At first I marveled at this fact. Then when I got to a particular overlook, there was a swarm of them – and an excited gator heading my way too.
They were enticed by my human presence – not a good thing, think of what it could lead to. We viewed their strange behavior for some time. On our way out, a family was coming in with a loaf of bread. It explained a lot. A very sad fact as it hurts the creatures and the ecosystem – not to mention it’s illegal with signs stating ‘do not feed the wildlife.’ So head to this park (and others) to enjoy the wildlife, keep it wild for the good of everyone!
Verdict: Definitely NOT a tourist spot!
Thank you! It’s definitely away from the hubbub, a nice quiet retreat.
We’ve been to Clearwater so many times-never heard of this park! But then we never went to hike-only to visit friends who lived there or to shop. Nice find. Love the Spanish moss draping the oaks. Nice pictures.