Myakka Canopy Walkway
Sarasota, FL, 34241
The Myakka Canopy Walkway was built in 2000 as the first public treetop trail on the continent. The walkway is both a tourist attraction and an outdoor research and education laboratory, with a 74-foot (22-meter) tower offering views of the treetops, while a walkway extending 100 feet (30 meters) through the canopy provides a better view of the ground below.
The basics
Standing 25 feet (7 meters) off the ground, Myakka Canopy Walkway is a short and sweet feature of the Myakka River State Park. You can make your way from one end of the walkway to the other, as well as up and down the observation tower, in a matter of minutes. Some visitors assume this notable landmark is much more extensive and immersive; that’s why It’s best to include it as one of many sightseeing stops when hiking through the park.
Things to know before you go
The canopy walkway is free, but you must pay state park admission.
Pets, except for service animals, are not allowed on any part of the walkway structure.
The walkway is only accessible by stairs.
How to get there
The Myakka Canopy Walkway is near the main entrance to Myakka River State Park. To get to the park you’ll need to drive, bike, or use a rideshare or taxi service. If arriving from Sarasota, take Highway 72 east and make a left onto Myakka State Park Road. The parking lot for the Myakka Canopy Walkway is just beyond the kayak launch bridge. Follow the trail to the walkway.
When to get there
Myakka River State Park is open from morning to sunset year-round, and the Myakka Canopy Walkway stays open as well. The adjacent Boylston Nature Trail has some shade cover, but the canopy walkway is exposed, so consider an early morning or late evening visit. Check with the visitor center about the breeding habits of birds of prey, as some can be territorial of their nests in the spring season.
See more wildlife from above
The Myakka Canopy Walkway is ideal for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, but it’s far from the only wildlife observation point in the park. Near the walkway is a kayak launch and bridge over the Myakka River. Park in the adjacent parking lot and head to the bridge to gaze down at alligators, turtles, snakes, and more.
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