Scenic hike nestled along 30A

Not many visitors or locals are aware of a secret little trail to explore off of Scenic Highway 30A. Nestled in 22 acres of preserved wetlands within the Alys Beach community, a ¾ mile boardwalk trail takes you on a pleasant passage into nature.

Christian Wagley, former environmental coordinator at Alys Beach sought what avid explorers would appreciate when he designed the elevated trail, and planned it along areas giving the largest overview. The trail offers views of pitcher plants, cypress domes, titi trees, a variety of flowering shrubs, wildflowers and more. Interpretive displays along the path educate visitors about the various plants and wildlife that live in the area.

The trail offers a peek into different ecosystems as you pass through a wetland area, then as you exit the boardwalk onto the sandy path, the vegetation becomes dryer. You will notice reindeer moss, woody goldenrod and scrub rosemary become more prevalent.

This wonderful boardwalk may be the longest in Walton County. It gives visitors a true sense of Northwest Florida’s natural diversity— all within steps of the Gulf of Mexico.

The trailhead is located at the north end of Alys Beach at the end of Charles Street.
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Open to the public 7 days a week, sunrise to sunset. ADA accessible.

Master naturalist and gardener Snookie Parrish gives educational tours of the trail at various times throughout the year. For more information, go to: alysbeach.com.

Snookie Parrish contributed to this story.