The Myakka River, for which the park is named, is designated as a Florida Wild and Scenic River, and it flows through 58 square miles of wetlands, prairies, hammocks, and pinelands. The park´s river and two lakes provide ample opportunities for hiking, among other recreational activities. Within the park, you can explore large expanses of rare Florida dry prairie. The park is easily accessible, located nine miles east of Sarasota on State Road 72.
There are a variety of hikes available in the park, including the popular hike to Deep Hole, which is known for its many alligators. You can download a map of Myakka River State Park hiking trails here.
Although you can hike to Deep Hole yourself, there is also a scheduled guided hike, which you can read more about here.