Loxahatchee's boat launch sitting at the end of Lee Road, the main thoroughfare through the refuge, is the entry point to explore (and fish if you like) the marshes, swamps and tree islands that make up the majority of Loxahatchee's 144,500 acres. Airboats and outboards can travel the extent of the perimeter canal. There is a trail through the marsh and tree islands for canoeists and other paddlers; for those that don't have, rentals are available through a vendor on site. The craft seen in the photo is about to enter the trail to the left. The launch also provides access to the Levee Perimeter Trail; hike or bike its length, north or south, but remember that this is a one-way trail in either direction. For every mile you go in, there's a mile coming back. Two other quick notes: the Levee Trail is pet friendly as long as you clean up after Fido and keep him or her on a leash no shorter than six feet so that wildlife are not disturbed. Second note: the trail to the north provides access to Strazzulla Marsh, the newest unit of Loxahatchee. It's a bit of a hike, though, about 3.2 miles, and there are no hiking trails or other amenities at the marsh, which sits east of the levee. NEXT STOP
