GTM Long Hike
The diverse environments along this longer hike in the Guana Research Reserve help illustrate why it is one of only 29 National Estuarine Research Reserves in the U.S.
GTM Research Reserve
Explore the Trails
For those seeking a mix of nature, wildlife, and scenic waterways, the GTM Reserve offers some of Ponte Vedra’s most beautiful and diverse hiking trails. The reserve protects unique estuarine environments, allowing visitors to experience Florida’s coastal ecosystems up close.
For a longer, immersive hike, connect the Yellow, Purple, and Red Trails. This 5.8-mile route shows why the Reserve is one of only 29 National Estuarine Research Reserves in the U.S. Along the trails, you may spot great blue herons, snowy egrets, roseate spoonbills, pelicans, owls, deer, gopher tortoises, and more. Begin at the Trailhead Pavilion on the Yellow Trail, follow the Purple Trail through vegetated areas, then head south on the Red Trail along the Tolomato River before looping back.
Benches along the way provide spots to rest and enjoy the view, especially where the Guana and Tolomato Rivers meet. Trail maps and pre-hike info are available at the Environmental Education Center, and guided hikes or presentations can be arranged by calling the GTM.
Details
Address: The GTM Environmental Education Center is located at 505 Guana River Road, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082. For trail access, continue straight after turning onto Guana River Road, stop at the pay station for entry, then go past the Guana Dam parking lot on the dirt road leading to the trail parking lot.
Entrance Fee: $3 parking fee
Hours: Trails – 8 a.m. to sunset | Environmental Education Center – 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Website: https://gtmnerr.org/
Facilities Available: The Guana Trails offer easy parking, and the Trailhead Pavilion provides background information about the hikes. Restrooms are available at the Pavilion, and benches along the trails provide great spots to pause and enjoy the natural beauty of the preserve.
Level of Difficulty: Easy to moderate – all hikes are on relatively level ground and are easy to access.
Other Information: Visit the Ponte Vedra Visitor Information Center to learn more about the area.
Expert Tips
✓ Stay on the Trail
Stay on designated paths to prevent trampling sensitive plants and animals—these Preserve environments are very fragile.
✓ Pack It In, Pack It Out
Keep the “natural” in “natural areas” by taking out everything you bring in.
✓ Hydrate Smart
Bring your own water bottle and fill it before heading out.
✓ Visit the Environmental Education Center
Stop by the GTM Environmental Education Center to better understand these unique ecosystems and support this important institution.
✓ Best Parking
For easiest access, park at the west end of the Guana Dam, past the pay station, near the Trailhead Pavilion.
✓ Optimal Wildlife Viewing
Go before 11 a.m.—you’ll see more wildlife in the cooler parts of the day, and hiking will be easier.
✓ Enhance Your Hike
Make sure to stop into the Environmental Education Center either before or after your hike to learn more about this unique area.