It was a beautiful day outside today and I wanted to get some fresh air and exercise. Originally, I was hoping to find a park along St. John’s River, but instead, I happened upon Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens (www.jacksonvillearboretum.org). What a beautiful place! They have seven interlocking trails in the natural habitat of Florida. The Lake Loop Trail encircles a two acre lake, while the others wind through mostly shaded forest areas. What a wonderful way to get some exercise and enjoy learning about the local fauna at the same time. According to their brochure, if you walk all the trails, you will complete 7,510 adult steps. And, if you bring a picnic you can refuel in their nice little picnic area.
I began my afternoon with the picnic and then only had time to walk the Lake Loop Trail, Rosemary Ridge Trail and part of the Live Oak Trail. Okay, only 4,000 steps at a leisurely stroll, but I enjoyed every bit of it. I am already planning my return. I have my eye on the Lower & Upper Ravine Trails and the more difficult Arelia Trail.