Red Maple Boardwalk and Blueberry Trail

This trail system is located within the University of North Florida (UNF) campus in Jacksonville, Florida. It winds through the beautiful Sawmill Slough Preserve.

The trail system offers diverse terrain, including shaded flatwoods, pine flatwoods, and deep swamp areas. The Red Maple Boardwalk features elevated sections traversing the Buck Head Branch Swamp, while the Blueberry Trail includes sandy paths, especially in the Gopher Tortoise Ridge section.

Yes, the Red Maple Boardwalk section of the trail is fully wheelchair accessible, making it a great option for visitors of all mobility levels. The Blueberry Trail, however, includes sandy sections and is not fully accessible.

The trails offer frequent opportunities for wildlife viewing. You might spot various birds, deer, and gopher tortoises, especially in the Gopher Tortoise Ridge section. The Blueberry Trail is also known for its blueberries, which attract local wildlife.

The provided information does not specify whether dogs are allowed on the Red Maple Boardwalk and Blueberry Trail. It's best to check with the University of North Florida's campus regulations or the Sawmill Slough Preserve guidelines before bringing your pet.

While the trail can be enjoyed year-round, the cooler months (fall, winter, and spring) in Florida generally offer more comfortable hiking conditions. The blueberries on the Blueberry Trail are seasonal, so visiting when they are ripe could be a unique experience.

As the trail is located on the University of North Florida campus, there are typically no specific permits or entrance fees required for accessing the trails themselves. However, standard university parking regulations may apply if you are driving to the trailhead.

Yes, the Blueberry Trail includes permanent exercise stations along its route, offering an opportunity to incorporate a workout into your walk. The entire trail system is also described as a peaceful retreat, perfect for a quick hike or a nature reset.

A combined loop of the Red Maple Boardwalk and Blueberry Trail is approximately 1.5 miles long. While individual walking pace varies, the entire route is considered easy and can typically be completed in about 20-30 minutes.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the official trails known as Red Maple Boardwalk, Blueberry Trail, and Goldenrod Trail, offering a comprehensive experience of the preserve's diverse habitats.

The primary highlight along this route is the Sawmill Slough Preserve itself, which encompasses the diverse habitats you'll explore. You'll also experience the unique Red Maple Boardwalk traversing the Buck Head Branch Swamp and the Blueberry Trail known for its namesake fruit and exercise stations.