Just off the busy and commercialized Route 580 in Florida is the tranquil and beautiful Upper Tampa Bay Park.
This park is tucked away in its own little world, with a diverse range of tropical trees, plants and trails. There is also a nice little visitor center, with various exhibits, including tanks showing off some local wildlife. It is a low-key, fly-under-the-radar gem. With the slightly stormy weather, the park was pretty much empty, though beautiful nonetheless.
There are three short (0.7, 0.4, and 0.3 mile) trails that show off some of the different landscapes, including a variety trees, plants and the chance to see some wildlife.
The park borders up against Mobbly Bay, which ultimately connects up with Old Tampa Bay... almost like a bay within a bay. A boardwalk trail takes you to views of the bay and through the interesting ecosystem that makes up the space between the water and the dry land. Mangroves (or at least trees that seem like mangroves) make up a lot of this transition section.
Yes, we saw a snake.
It's pretty wild -- with the park's somewhat precarious location next to Mobbly Bay, it is possible for major storm water surges under the right conditions. This sign must be 20 feet tall.
Upper Tampa Bay Park was not originally on the itinerary, but turned into one of the highlights of this trip in Florida. I loved the various trees and plants, and the trails were short but showed off a lot of different terrain. What an unexpected treat! I'd totally go back for a leisurely stroll and to take in the beautiful surroundings.
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