Sunrise in the Scrub: Guided Hike

Event Description: Join Conservation Collier staff for a short hike atop white sands and deer-moss-dotted rosemary thickets to experience the sunrise over one of the rarest and most unique habitats in Collier County - xeric scrub at the Railhead Scrub Preserve. Endangered plant identification, birdwatching, and a refreshing start to your morning included with your reservation. Participants will arrive and meet the Conservation Collier preserve manager, sign in, and travel on foot into the scrub enjoying the songs of early morning insects and birds to reach the sunrise viewing area. Participants will be encouraged to spread out and find a peaceful location to take in the view of the rising sun illuminating the white sands and rare plant species of the scrub. Participants will learn about notable scrub species that are rarely found in other areas of the county and the wildlife that rely on this urban nature preserve that has been protected in perpetuity through the Conservation Collier Program.

Questions? Email [email protected] or call 239-252-2961

Learn more about the Conservation Collier Program: www.ConservationCollier.com

Address: Railhead Scrub Preserve in North Naples (Old 41, south of Bonita Beach Rd). Exact parking location to be provided via email once you have made your reservation.

About the Preserve: Railhead Scrub Preserve protects one of Collier County’s last remaining fragments of rare xeric scrub uplands - ancient, sandy ridges that support unique plants and wildlife found nowhere else. Across its 135 acres, there are a variety of ecosystems: scrub and flatwoods, wet prairie, small seasonal wetlands, and a cypress dome. These fire-dependent habitats shelter species like gopher tortoises, white-tailed deer, bobcats, and many other scrub specialists that rely on open, sunny conditions.

This preserve is not currently open to the public. This event will provide special access to this rare and unique site.

Considerations: Participants should be physically comfortable walking over uneven terrain and sand for up to half a mile and standing for the duration of the tour.

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