Hiking the Footprints Trail, Punta Gorda, FLA
Travel to Babcock Ranch and Take a Hike on Florida’s Newest Trail
Jun 29, 2008
Outdoor enthusiasts can hike the shorter 2-mile loop or the full 4.7-mile loop trail. Both trails lead hikers through various Florida habitats, including cypress swamps, pine flatwoods and hardwood hammocks. At this time, the trail is only open to hiking and is not multi-use.
Footprints Trail: The Wildlife
Florida wildlife is plentiful on Babcock Ranch and it is possible for hikers to see deer, wild hogs and a variety of birdlife, including Everglades swallowtail kites, bald eagles and wood storks. Florida cracker cattle roam free but are not domesticated. Hikers should watch their step and keep an eye out for venomous snakes. Pay attention to the fragile critters underfoot, such as apple snails and Blue Florida Crayfish.
Footprints Trail: The Terrain
Forestry crews have carved the Footprints Trail out of the Florida backcountry. The trail’s terrain is uneven and elevation change is minimal. Depending on the time of year, the Footprints Trail has wet and muddy stretches when traversing through the cypress swamps, especially during the rainy summer season. Depending on rain, water levels on the Footprints Trail may reach knee height on an average female adult. The trail is pretty much open with minimal tree canopy shading the path.
Footprints Trail: Essentials for a Good Hike
- When hiking the loop trails, wear sturdy shoes or boots that can get wet.
- Long slacks are ideal to prevent critters from crawling up legs from the water and protect from plant abrasions.
- Bring a walking stick to help slog through the water.
- When hiking the Footprints Trail during the summer, avoid the heat and humidity by starting out early in the day. Doing so also prevents getting caught in afternoon thunderstorms.
- Prepare for bugs such as mosquitoes, deerflies and ticks by using insect repellent and reapply while on the trail.
- Carry water and snacks and remember to pack out what was packed in.
- Apply and reapply sunscreen and wear a broad-rimmed hat to protect the face and ears against the Florida sun.
- There are no facilities along the trail and be sure to carry a trail map which can be picked up at the trailhead.
- The trail is open during daylight hours and is managed by Babcock Ranch. In case of an emergency on the trail, dial 911. Other calls can be directed to nearby Babcock Wilderness Adventures at (941) 639-3958.
Footprints Trail: The Name Game
A student at Port Charlotte Middle School (Florida) is responsible for naming the “Footprints Trail.” A contest was held and Victoria Mims submitted the winning name, inspired by the hiker’s creed to, “Take only pictures, leave only footprints.” Mims and other students were at the trail’s grand opening on June 11, 2008.
Footprints Trail: Getting There
The Footprints Trail is located at Babcock Ranch in Punta Gorda on Southwest Florida's Gulf Coast. Just two hours south of Tampa Bay and 30 minutes north of Ft. Myers, the trail makes an ideal day trip. Take Interstate 75 to exit 164 and follow State Road 17 north to County Road 74 (Bermont Road). Follow CR 74 east (by taking a right) and pass through the intersection of State Road 31 and continue on CR 74. Footprints Trail trailhead is on the right.
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