The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) is making strides to reopen additional loops of the William and Ruth Brooks Nature Trail, following significant damage from Hurricane Ian. With one loop already open, the SCCF’s habitat management team is focused on clearing and restoring two more loops set to open later this year.
Located in the Erick Lindblad Preserve behind the SCCF headquarters on Sanibel-Captiva Road, the trail was severely impacted by the hurricane, which destroyed boardwalks and downed many trees.
One of the trails to be reopened is the former Sabal Palm Trail, which leads out to Alligator Hole and the High Ridge Trail. Both sections are currently being cleared to form a second hiking loop.
“We’re excited to restore this beautiful trail for visitors,” said Chris Lechowicz, SCCF’s Wildlife & Habitat Management Director. “After clearing, signage and some landscaping will be required before we can officially open this loop. Parts of the trail pass through low areas and will be accessible only during the dry season, but most of it runs along a ridge, which should make for a scenic hike.”
The second loop to be reopened will be the East River Trail, a special section that follows the Sanibel River and winds through a buttonwood forest. Like the Sabal Palm Trail, this trail also traverses low areas and will be fully accessible only during the dry season to avoid walking in water.
Restoration efforts also include replacing the boardwalks lost during Hurricane Ian.
For now, access to the trail will be limited to the headquarters’ parking lot. Once the new trail entrance on the east side of the building is completed, the parking lot entrance will be permanently closed.
The SCCF is committed to bringing more of this beautiful nature trail back to life, giving residents and visitors an opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of Sanibel once again.
