Exploring the Blueways: Florida at Its Most Natural

Just the other day my outdoor enthusiast buddy and I went for a canoe adventure down the Alafia River.

As we drove through Brandon into the more rural spaces, we discussed just how very much we appreciated the green spaces in Florida. The very idea that within one hour we could jump in our cars and head to the nearest outdoor escape is just so appealing.

Having the ability to embark on such adventures is just another perk to living in Florida. Although the Alafia is an amazing kayak and canoe experience, in all of its glory with class one rapids, you do not have to travel that far to enjoy your own outdoor adventure.

To the people of Pinellas County it may seem like we have nothing but concrete jungle upon concrete slab upon picket fence to turn to. However, there are 49 blueways in Pinellas County and 10 kayak trails in the St. Petersburg area alone!

One of m favorite kayak trails is that of Weedon Island. It is not too often in life that one will get the opportunity to paddle through ancient native midden mounds covered by mangrove hammocks. Something about this place and its majestic beauty makes me feel like I am entering in a secret garden of sorts.

Another kayak trail that is currently in the works of being restored is Clam Bayou. The trail is similar to that of Weedon Island as it meanders through mangroves and estuaries where birds find sanctuary.

I am always seeing great blue herons, white egrets, grey night crowned herons and pelicans perched upon the trees. In fact, each of these places offers a variety of wildlife sightings.

I remember one experience in particular a few years ago at Weedon Island, a moment that I will never forget. My friend and I were meandering through the covered hammocks, enjoying the much-needed shade.

As we went through the small entry out on to a tidal flat we were greeted by a huge flock of roseate spoonbills. All of them were comfortably perched upon the trees while I was simultaneously taken back to a time before humans dominated the lands.

We were a part of their home at this moment, not the other way around.

It is moments like those that make Florida such a beautiful place. As spring turns to summer and work or school loads become heavier, I encourage you to take sanctuary in your very own backyards.

Explore the waterways of Pinellas County and all that is has to offer.

Before you take off on your adventure here are a few items I like to bring along for safety and precautionary measures.

• Be sure to have a personal flotation device with a whistle for emergency purposes.
• Always charge your cell phone and store it and other perishable items in a secure waterproof bag or storage container.
• Always make it a point to bring snips or not pointed scissors to cut fishing line down from trees as well as plastic bags and such that have become entangled.
• A hat, safe sunscreen, and lots of water are also of great importance. Be sure to check the tides before heading out, kayaking or canoeing at low tide can be quite the disaster especially in places like Weedon Island and Clam Bayou because of the nature of the tidal dependence. You may be stuck and or need to drag your vessel across flats which is neither fun nor healthy for the eco system.
• Check out the National Weather Service website for tides and currents before heading out.
• For more blueways safety tips check out the section on the Pinellas County website.

One of the most important parts of being in nature is of course respecting nature. Give wildlife adequate distance and respect when passing by. Remember that what happens in nature stays in nature so take only photos and memories with you. Also, be kind to the area by bringing a garbage bag and a dip net with you so that you can help to remove potentially dangerous debris from the water.

If you do happen to run in to a Spoonbill and are able to see it clearly, report the sighting to the Audubon Society as they are in need of identifying assistance.

For more information on kayak and canoe rentals follow these links:

In St. Petersburg

• USF Students
• Eckerd College Students
• Weedon Island: Sweetwater Kayaks
• Fort De Soto: Topwater Kayak Outpost

Have fun, be safe and enjoy your escape! In the famous words of Henry David Thoreau, “Wherever there is a channel for water, there is a road for the canoe.”

Have a kayak/canoe story to share? Please do!