As soon as I learned about this trail it went to the top of my to-do list! The name itself intrigued me. Used originally to get to a neighbor's house and the beaches on Orchid Island, it became a formal road in 1920. It got the name Jungle Trail in the 1960s due to the tropical growth along the trail. It is also part of the National Register of Historic Places. Today, it is very much the same as it was then. A sandy trail that takes you along the Indian River Lagoon, from one end of the county to what was then the mainland bridge. Though some of the views around the trail have changed. A few more houses and a few more golf courses. It still showcases the old Florida that drew people there.
The Jungle Trail starts at Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge. There is plenty of parking. There are also nice restrooms and maps available.
Note again, this trail is made of compacted sand. Most of the time it was easy to bike, but it can be difficult at points where the sand is not firm. The sand also makes small divots hard to notice. The trail is called Jungle Trail, but most of the trail isn't completely covered by trees so wear sunscreen. This trail can also be used by cars, though you won't see too many. It was wide enough that we could stay on our respective sides and feel safe passing.
Out of the parking lot, you will veer to the left to start your jungle journey. As you bike through the Wildlife Refuge, you will see tons of beautiful wildflowers, and of course a mixture of tropical plants.
You can take a turn off to see Pelican Island or continue on the trail. Not too far after that will be the drop-in site for kayaks. Nearing the water, you can see little crabs scurrying around. I went and dipped my toes in the water, embracing my inner Jane of the Jungle.
Coming out of the Wildlife Refuge, you will see more civilization. The sight of gorgeous houses on golf courses. You will cross over the entrance to these properties.
There is one major road crossing with this trail. You will have to cross Wabasso Bridge Road, which is a four-lane highway. There is no crosswalk or lights. Be cautious and vigilant. The traffic wasn't heavy, so it was easy finding a good time to cross.
After that, you will be right along the water!
The trail continues to Old Winter Beach Road. In the '20s, this is where the bridge connecting to the mainland was. The end is pretty clear. The sand trail ends and becomes a normal sidewalk. Jungle Trail is 7 miles one way.
It was such a cool experience to bike through some Florida history. To bike down memory lane. A memory of the old Florida and her beauty. A beauty that inspired many painters. A beauty that entices folks to relocate. A beauty that inspires me to go in search of more adventures.
And speaking of adventures, I like to make the most of mine. So after the biking Jungle Trail, I headed over to the beach to cool off. There are several beaches off the A1A. First, I went to Treasure Shores Park, which is 2 minutes south from Pelican Island Wildlife Refuge. What is cool about these beaches is they are frequented by different types of turtles to lay their eggs. Sections are staked out where the turtles nest.
A little island rain moved its way onto shore. But the best thing about island rain is you can easily move away from it. So I moved a few minutes south to Wabasso Beach. Both beaches had parking lots, a rinse off station and restrooms. After a day of biking and beaching, I needed to properly fuel back up. I ventured down to Riverside Cafe. Taking in the waterway views as I enjoyed my oysters and grouper Rueben.
Biking Jungle Trail was the main instigator for this trip, but I like to make the most of my days. Vero Beach has more interesting sights to see, but that is for another adventure.
Comments