Share the trails with a wide variety of native plants and animal species.
The preserve is accessible from two land locations: the Winkler Point entrance, in Fort Myers, and the Estero River Scrub entrance, in Estero.
Numerous miles of trails offer visitors the opportunity to hike the uplands of the preserve and enjoy the variety of wildlife and native vegetation that the park protects. The trails in the preserve are rugged and seasonally flooded in some areas. Sturdy footwear, insect repellant, sunscreen and plenty of water is recommended.
Estero Bay Preserve is dog friendly, provided that your pet is on a six foot or shorter leash and any waste is bagged and removed.
The Winkler Point access located off the southmost point of Winkler Road and features trails of coastal marshes and maritime hammocks where visitors can view an assortment of birds. Two observation decks near the marshes provide excellent viewing spots for wading birds, waterfowl and other wildlife. This is an extremely primitive trail and preserve access. No restrooms or ADA accessibility are available, so please plan accordingly.
The Estero River Scrub access is located off the westmost point of Broadway West and has four separate trails, which entice visitors to hike through the numerous ecosystems that make up the preserve. Areas of mesic flatwoods, scrub and salt flats are home to gopher tortoises, snakes, lizards and a myriad of bird species.
A pavilion and restrooms are located at this trailhead and numerous benches throughout the preserve allow visitors to stop and rest.
Experiences
Bicycling
Off road cycling is available at the Estero River Scrub Trails. Riders are asked to please not ride on the salt flats which is not healthy for this habitat nor your bicycle due to the high salt content of the water and/or soil.
Bicycles are not permitted at the Winkler Point Trails.
Helmets are highly recommended for all cyclists and Florida law requires helmets for cyclists age 16 and under.
Boating
With over 7,000 acres of mangroves, the water is the best way to experience this part of the Preserve. The majority of the undeveloped inland shore, islands and waterways of the Estero Bay are all part of the Preserve.
Public boat launches are available at Lovers Key State Park and Koreshan State Park.
Paddling
With over 7,000 acres of mangroves, the water is the best way to experience this part of the Preserve. The majority of the undeveloped inland shore, islands and waterways of the Estero Bay are all part of the Preserve. Paddling is a great way to explore the shallow waters of the Bay and all of the intimate details it has to offer.
Public boat launches are available at Lovers Key State Park and Koreshan State Park.
Fishing
Fishing in the Estero River can be done by hiking 0.75 miles to the end of the blue trail at the Estero River Scrub.
A Florida fishing license may be required.
Geo-Seeking
Explore the park in a new and challenging way. Experienced Geocachers have requested permission to hide caches containing trinkets, treasures, or information in various places around the park. Please check the Geocaching website for the most current and up-to-date information and clues to locate these caches.
Operation Recreation GeoTour
Hiking
Estero Bay Preserve State Park has two trail systems.
The Estero River Scrub has four marked trails with a combined length of about 10 miles. These trails meander through pine flatwoods, tidal salt flats and lead to the Estero River. The trails here are seasonally wet. Best times to visit are typically October through May when the trails are at their driest.
The Winkler Point trails have three loops totaling six miles. Here the trails take you through wet flatwoods, salt marshes and mangroves. There are two observation decks overlooking tidal ponds and are a good place to view waterfowl and wading birds. This area is very seasonally wet and the trails are difficult to maintain due to the hydrology of the site with trails completely submerged most of the year. Best times to visit are typically January through May when the trails are at their driest.
Wildlife Viewing
The Preserve has a diverse array of wildlife that can be seen. From the uplands to the wetlands and submerged areas a variety of opportunities await. This is also a great place to observe migratory bird species that stop over or winter in south Florida.
