Get your boots on the ground every 2nd Monday from November through April for an epic adventure around the whole loop at CREW Bird Rookery Swamp Trail. This long hike will earn you the title of “Looper” for circumnavigating the old 12-mile railroad berm turned hiking trail. Common wildlife sightings include many alligators, migratory birds - like warblers and finches - and very few people, as you get farther into this wild Florida trail. Join your guide this season and see why everyone is raving about the Bird Rookery Swamp trail!

This 4–5-hour (12-mile) hike is offered from 7:30 am - 12:30 am on the 2nd Monday of every month from November through April. You must be able to complete the entire journey unassisted, recent/previous long-distance hiking is strongly encouraged.

Capacity: 12 Difficulty: 5/5

Please arrive a little early, so that everyone is set for a 7:30 a.m. start. Note that the terrain and distance of this hike is challenging. If you think that it may be too strenuous, we have many other great options on other CREW trails which may be more suitable.

The CREW Bird Rookery Swamp trail is part of the Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed (owned by the South Florida Water Management District). It includes a 1500 ft. boardwalk and nearly 12-miles of raised trails on old railroad trams. The trestle bridge that connects the northern sides of the trail has been closed by the South Florida Water Management District until further notice- making this an out an back hike. The cypress/maple swamp is home to wading birds, owls, deer, bear, panther, bobcat, limpkins and much more.

Be sure to wear comfortable hiking shoes and clothing. Bring water to drink and snacks to eat. Sunscreen and a hat are advisable. Cameras and binoculars are optional.

Cancellations or modifications may occur due to inclement weather, such as thunderstorms or COVID-19 restrictions. 

Limited to 12 hikers. Only service animals allowed. 

If you cannot attend the hike, please call 239-657-2253 or request a cancellation at least 72 hours before the walk is scheduled.

Donations to the CREW Trust are greatly appreciated on the day of the hike or online at http://www.crewtrust.org.

FAQs

Is there an age limit for the event?

This guided walk is for ages 18 and above.

What are the parking/facilities like at the trails?

There is a gravel parking lot at the trailhead. There is one portable restroom at the trailhead.

What are the trails like?

The trails are mostly grassy/sandy ground level trails with some boardwalk structures over wet areas. Expect seasonally wet/muddy places on the trails during the wet season (July - December).

Is my registration/ticket transferrable?

Yes. You may give your spot to someone else. Be sure to change the information on your registration page accessible through your email receipt.

Can I cancel my ticket(s)?

You may cancel your ticket(s) up to 72 hours prior to the event.

Can I update my registration information?

Yes, you may update your registration information up to 24 hours before the event.

Do I have to bring a printed ticket to the event?

No. We do not issue print tickets. Simply check in with the event leader at the time of the event.

Can I bring my dog?

This is not a dog-friendly event.

Directions to the Bird Rookery Swamp Trail: 1295 Shady Hollow Boulevard, Naples, FL 34120

From Fort Myers/Naples: From I-75, take exit 111 and turn east (away from Naples) on Immokalee Road (CR 846). Travel 11.4 miles and turn left onto Shady Hollow Blvd. (One mile past the Oil Well Rd stoplight – Shady Hollow is where Immokalee Rd goes from 4-lane to 2-lane). Go to the end of Shady Hollow (approx 2.4 miles). Parking lot is on the right.

From Immokalee: Travel west (toward Naples) on CR 846 (Immokalee Road) for approx. 16.5 miles. Turn right on Shady Hollow Blvd. Travel 2.4 miles north to parking area/gate.

Donations to the CREW Trust are greatly appreciated.