Saturdays in June - #2

A little over a year ago, we drove past Homestead to try taking a hike in the Southern Glades Wildlife and Environmental Area. If you remember reading about that, you’ll remember that we were unable to take that hike because the access point was under construction. Instead, we hiked along an abandoned road. We returned a few more times, and on a visit earlier this spring, guess what we found?

You’re right! The construction equipment had disappeared, and there was an opening in the fence, allowing access to the trail head. However, that particular day we weren’t mentally prepared for a 13-mile hike, so we continued with Plan F and explored the L-31 Canal and Glenn Garrett Memorial Park.

This time, though, when we checked the starting point, it was still accessible, and we were prepared for the long hike. Wayne took off, and I drove around to the ending point to read a book and wait for him. He was bothered, he’d even say attacked, by swarms of biting flies for most of the trail, but otherwise enjoyed his trek. And I enjoyed not being bothered by bugs.

After going under Highway 1, you find the official start of the trail.

The parking lot at Everglades National Park (the visitor’s center is still closed) proved to be a comfortable waiting place.

This is a levee hike. That means there’s absolutely no shade along the way!

Another water control structure marks the end of the hike.

Along the way, Wayne found a couple of other levees he wants to hike, so we’ll be back. Will we take a picnic or stop for milkshakes? Stay tuned to find out!

We had Glenn Garrett Park all to ourselves.