A Naturalist Walk at the Santa Fe Preserve Register

Date and Time:
Sat, Mar 28, 2026; 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM  (Eastern)

Organized By: Suwannee-St Johns Group

Location: 27025 N State Rd 121, Alachua, FL 32615, USA

Map | Directions

Join us for a slow, guided walk through the hardwood forest of the Santa Fe Preserve along the upper Santa Fe River. We’ll explore the plants and fauna of this North Florida hardwood hammock while learning how the landscape, soils, and river shape the life that grows here. Along the way, we’ll encounter native species and discuss their ecological roles and cultural stories.

Early spring is one of the most beautiful times to visit the preserve, and we’ll likely encounter blooming Pinxter azaleas (Rhododendron periclymenoides), one of the region’s most striking native wildflowers. We’ll also be in the middle of spring bird migration, so bring binoculars for a chance to spot some seasonal feathered visitors.

We’ll pause briefly for a moment of quiet reflection to deepen our sensory awareness and experience the landscape not just as scenery, but as a living community.

This will be an easy, relaxed walk with plenty of stops for observation and conversation. All levels of curiosity are welcome.

The walk will be led by Tim Martin, a Florida Master Naturalist who spends much of his time studying native plants and tending a small North Florida homestead. He enjoys helping people slow down, notice the details of the natural world, and deepen their relationship with the living landscape.

Level: Easy

Cost: Free

Bring: Please bring water and snacks, and wear closed-toed shoes.

Cancellation Policy: Heavy rain cancels