Deep Hole Trail – Myakka River

Distance: 4.8 miles Elevation Gain: 10 ft Difficulty: Easy Type: Out-and-Back Surface: Packed dirt, grass, some sand Activity: Hiking Best Season: Year-round Typical Time: 2:00 Fee: $6/vehicle Dogs: Yes, on leash Permit: No

The Deep Hole Trail leads through the heart of one of Florida's largest and oldest state parks to the legendary Deep Hole—a natural depression in the Myakka River that becomes one of the most spectacular wildlife congregation points in North America during the dry season. As water levels drop from December through April, American alligators by the hundreds pack into Deep Hole, stacking atop one another in a primordial heap that routinely attracts wildlife photographers and researchers from around the world.

The 4.8-mile out-and-back route follows the river's eastern floodplain through open palm prairie and cabbage palm hammocks, passing through terrain that has been minimally altered since the Civilian Conservation Corps developed the park in the 1930s. Roseate spoonbills, wood storks, and anhinga gather at fishing shallows along the route. Wild turkeys feed in the prairie margins, and Florida sandhill cranes forage in pairs throughout. The trail surface is generally flat and dry-season firm, though summer rains can create wet crossings. The payoff at Deep Hole is unmatched in Florida wildlife viewing.