While Florida thatch palms (Thrinax radiata) are often seen in South Florida landscaping, they’re a rare and endangered species in the wild. At Curry Hammock, a 1.5-mile interpretive trail twists and winds from the paved Overseas Heritage Trail towards Florida Bay through a dense thicket of Florida thatch palms that makes you feel like you’re walking in a miniature palm forest.
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Overview
Location: Marathon
Length: 1.5 miles <
Lat-Long: 24.742259,-80.994815
Type: Round-trip
Fees / Permits: Parking is free along US 1
Difficulty: moderate
Bug Factor: annoying
Restroom: In the main portion of the park (fee)
Directions
Most of the state park is on the ocean side of US 1 (fee required), but the nature trail goes out to Florida Bay. Park along US 1 at the pulloff for the Overseas Highway Trail, the paved bicycle trail paralleling the road, and walk north to the trailhead for the nature trail.
Hike Details
The hike starts at a broad opening along Florida Bay, framed by mangroves. It’s a spot for shoreline fishing if you can deal with the muck. The trail turns left and begins to wind through the diminutive palm forest. Watch for rocks in the footpath that make for unsteady footing.
