Sleeping Turtles Preserve lies just west of T. Mabry Carlton, J. Memorial Reserve in Venice and about 20 miles from home. This 174-acre preserve is divided by the Border Road and contains in all about 5 miles of interconnecting hiking trails, including a single-track along the Myakka River.
To date, the northern side of the preserve is, for me, the most scenic local hiking experience. Several mowed and tree-covered paths intertwine to ensure several hours of walking.
It was interesting to note that in 2003, the Myakka River flooded to heights greater than Dennis. Note that this gauge stands up from the riverbank about 3-to-4 feet and is about 20 or 30 feet inland from the shore.
Once we reached the northern limit of the preserve, we followed a single path along the riverbank. This was most scenic but unmarked. We were on guard for alligators sunning on the banks or near the edge of the water. At one point something large dove into the water. When nothing surfaced, we backed tracked, just to be on the safe side.
There are plenty of benches and several covered picnic tables to provide resting areas. Today’s lunch was sardines or smoked herring, bread and butter, and olives.
After lunch, we hiked the southern portion of the preserve. Unlike the northern section, dogs are not allowed on these trails, but horses are. Since this side is not near the river, it is not a scenic. Also, since it is nearer to the highway, the the traffic noise detracted from enjoying nature’s tranquility.
The southern side also had fewer benches and the interconnecting trails could confuse someone without a map. Even though the maps at the entrance were not up-to-date, there are more trails than depicted, we managed not to get lost, thanks to Dennis’ good sense of direction.
Overall, we had a wonderful visit and I recommend hiking in the Sleeping Turtles Preserve, especially the northern portion. We will return to this picturesque local hiking spot.
