Pick a Hike
Numerous hiking trails wind along the seashore and through the refuge. The Cruickshank Trail's observation tower gives hikers views of the marshes and a photography blind gives shutterbugs a place to snap a memento of the plentiful birds. The Palm Hammock and Oak Hammock trails are short jaunts through wet sub-tropical forests and open marshes. Castle Windy and Turtle Mound take in shell middens (piles of discarded oyster and clam shells) left by Timucuan Indians.

Paddle the Estuaries
Estuaries, where fresh and saltwater meet, nurture a variety of wildlife. When you paddle carefully through the numerous Merritt Island estuaries, you might spot large predators hiding in the marshes, grasses, and shallow waters, hungry dolphins, nesting birds, and adolescent turtles. Red, White, and Black mangroves also thrive; their roots help anchor the soil and prevent erosion.

Take the Black Point Wildlife Drive
This six-mile scenic drive through pine flatwoods and marsh provides plenty of opportunities to view the many species of wildlife present on the island. It is considered one of the top birding destinations in Florida.

Move on to Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge Index

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