Thanks to Barbara Bowen from New Port Richey, owner of Riverbank’s Outdoor Store, I learned about a new preserve in this very urban area along the Gulf Coast and set out to find it on a recent visit. What a delight to find a lengthy boardwalk winding along the scenic Pithlachascotee River, especially on a day when temperatures were topping 95F. The 1.3-mile double-loop trail system is a must for the next edition of “50 Hikes in Central Florida,” thanks to the diversity of habitats and the pleasant setting. It’s one of the most appealing nature trails I’ve visited in a long time. I’ve just added the details to the Florida Hikes! website, so check it out and plan a visit!

Hike James E. Grey Preserve