Morgan Park

ABOUT THIS PLACE

Morgan Park sits at 1100 West Hickory Street, a short way west of downtown Arcadia, and covers 240 acres along the Peace River. About three miles of connected loop trails run through it. The North Trail is paved in concrete with rest stops along the way, so it suits anyone who wants an easy walk or needs a firm surface. The River Loop and the South Trail are the ones worth the extra effort: they run out to bluffs that stand higher above the Peace River than most people expect to find in this part of Florida, and the views from them are open. Live oaks, cabbage palms, cypress, holly and red maple shade the paths, and wooden footbridges carry the trail over the low spots. Alligators use the oxbow marshes beside the trail. The park is part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, and deer, hawks, woodpeckers, warblers and songbirds are all common, especially early and late in the day. There is a playground, a picnic pavilion that can be rented, picnic tables, grills, restrooms and a dirt parking lot, plus a boat ramp and canoe launch onto the river. The park is open sunrise to sunset, entry is free and leashed dogs are welcome