Calling all nature lovers! The Ron Sapp Egans Creek Greenway Trail is one of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of Amelia Island. Enhance your stay with an unforgettable walk or bike ride through this stunning coastal habitat, filled with Florida flora and fauna. While there are many ways to immerse yourself in rich culture and the great outdoors, this trail system is a must for your vacation itinerary.
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Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about this trail system in the heart of Fernandina Beach.
What is the Egans Creek Greenway?
This trail system is operated by the City of Fernandina Beach Parks and Recreation Department and was established in 2000. The greenway encompasses 300 acres of protected land, vegetation, and wildlife. Egans Creek Greenway features six grass-covered trails for walking and bicycling, a nature pavilion and picnic area located at the Atlantic Avenue entrance, benches, a boardwalk, educational kiosks, a playground, a kayak launch, and several areas designated for wildlife viewing.
Trails range from 800 feet to 1.3 miles and can be linked to create a custom distance for walking or biking. No public motorized vehicles are allowed on the trails, making it a peaceful, pedestrian-friendly experience.
The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset.
Where is Egans Creek Greenway Trail Located?
Lace up your walking shoes and head to Egans Creek Greenway Trail from your comfortable accommodations at The Fairbanks House. We offer complimentary bicycles, making it easy to pedal your way to this gorgeous oasis and green space.
The northern entrance to the greenway is located 1.4 miles from The Fairbanks House, making it an easy eight-minute bike ride away. You can drive to one of the parking lots and trailheads if you prefer. With multiple trailheads to access the greenway, it is easy to enjoy this majestic area.
Click here for a map of the greenway.
What Will I See While Touring the Greenway?
As the name suggests, Egans Creek runs through the greenway, creating a network of marshlands and hydric hammocks. A hydric hammock is a specific kind of wetland, unique to the southern coastal plains, created by lowland water in an area shaded by tree canopy. Visitors can observe a myriad of trees, shrubs, coastal grasses, and wildflowers throughout the salt marshes and freshwater ecosystems.
As you explore the wetlands via the network of trails throughout the greenway, you will undoubtedly encounter a few species of Florida wildlife. Here is a sampling of creatures you may see:
- Marsh Rabbits
- Snakes
- Alligators
- Wading Birds (egrets, herons, storks, and spoonbills)
- Birds of Prey (osprey, hawks, eagles)
- Songbirds
- Migrating Birds
What Do I Need to Bring or Know?
While in Florida, several things will make outdoor activities more comfortable. The natural wonders are truly spectacular, but the hot sun, humidity, biting insects, snakes, poisonous plants, and resident alligators can be overwhelming if you are unprepared.
Here are a few tips to make your adventure through the Egans Creek Greenway trails more enjoyable:
- Wear close-toed shoes
- Wear weather-appropriate clothing
- Bring water to stay hydrated
- Bring sunglasses and/or a hat
- Wear sunscreen if needed
- Wear bug repellant
- Stay on the path
- Do not pick flowers or plants
Whether you are planning a romantic retreat or a girlfriend’s getaway, there is always something fun to do on Amelia Island. From spa days to epic outdoor adventures, you will want to return year after year.