Through one of the largest maple swamps in Florida, Sawgrass Lake Park offers a 1 mile loop dirt track and half-mile boardwalk surrounded by the natural beauty of Florida. Despite being so close to one of the most densely-populated counties in Florida, Sawgrass is home to a wide diversity of creatures: from alligators to to turtles, and especially the birds: egrets, storks, ibis, herons, and many more. This is what makes it a premier spot in Florida for bird-watching, acclaimed by The Great Florida Birding Trail and the National Audubon Society, part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail. The gators are also plentiful, and much-loved by kids who want to see these strong and powerful creatures in person.

You can reach Sawgrass Lake Park by driving down a seemingly-residential suburban road, ending up in this hidden jewel. It is maintained due to a project starting in 1972 to protect the surrounding city against floods, to facilitate water levels in the swamp. Despite its practical beginnings, there is the nature trail, and also an education centre and an observation tower. Biking and inline skating are also permitted on the paved boardwalk. After the hike, there is one shelter with a barbecue grill as well, as well as picnic tables, a perfect place to enjoy a day out with friends or family after a hike.