With the roar of the nearby surf in your ears and sand in your shoes, it’s hard to believe that the glimmering body of water at the bottom of this ancient sand dune is called Gator Lake for good reason—you’ll find its namesake alligators there.
Although less than a half-mile in length, this interpretive loop offers some rugged climbs, panoramic views, and a diminutive coastal scrub forest to explore, with patches of rare rosemary scrub. It’s one of two interpretive trails you’ll find at one of the most popular state parks in Florida.
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Overview
Location: Panama City Beach
Length: 0.4 mile
Lat-Long: 30.128450, -85.732967
Type: Loop
Fees / Permits: state park entrance fee
Difficulty: 3 of 5
Bug factor: 2 of 5
Restroom: yes, near the beach access
It’s easy to lose the footpath, since the dunes are windswept and the movement of sand erases the trail. Watch for visual clues and interpretive markers. For more information about St. Andrews State Park, visit the park website
Directions
From US 98 in Pensacola Beach, follow SR 392 east to where it ends at the park entrance. Continue along the park entrance road and make a right at the store. The parking area for Gator Lake is on the left.
