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Driving Around Town: 5 Local Attractions to Visit in Jacksonville, FL

Jacksonville, FL attracts many visitors due to its proximity to the ocean. However, many people don't know just how much there is to do and see in this beautiful Floridian coastal town. With the comfort and style of the 2022 BMW X3, you will have a blast visiting all the local attractions. Driving Around Town: 5 Local Attractions to Visit in Jacksonville, FL 1. The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is a great location to check out cool animals, enjoy family fun, or even just relax. This zoo prides itself on its conservation efforts and is home to over 2000 animals. Amongst the various exhibits, guests can enjoy the beautiful gardens integrated into the experience and appropriately zoned to fit pleasantly into the scenery. This approach contributes to an immersive and unforgettable experience that you will love. Families will find that the Zoo offers even more excitement. Kids will love the educational programs, and by purchasing the full experience tickets guest will have access to a train ride, a 4D theater show, and animal feedings too. There is also a play area and splash grounds which means the fun here lasts all day. more 2. Museum of Science & History (MOSH) The Museum of Science and History is a wonderful option for anyone looking to engage their curious mind. Here visitors will find a variety of exhibits on a range of topics including live animal shows, and there is even a planetarium. The museum offers a range of events and traveling exhibits so there is always something new to explore. Tickets are $17.95 for adults and $14.95 for children. Advanced reservation is required so be sure to plan ahead if you're interested. 3. Tree Hill Nature Center With a focus on environmental and sustainability education, the Tree Hill Nature Center is another spot where visitors can explore and learn about the world around them. There are 51 acres for guests to explore and enjoy the natural environment of the Jacksonville area. Visitors can walk trails, tour the museum, participate in programs, or see some of the native animal species. Tickets are only $5 for adults and $3 for children so this is an extremely affordable activity. 4. Adventure Landing If you're looking for a bit more action, then Adventure Landing is the place to be. Here you can find a waterpark, gator feeding, and other amusement attractions. There is so much happening in one spot, you are sure to enjoy the day at this exciting location. 5. The Beach Many people come for the beaches, and it is easy to see why. The Jacksonville area has a beautiful coastline, and there is no better way to spend a warm summer day. Sand, sun, and the ocean are all you really need to enjoy your time here. With so much to see, you may need a reliable vehicle to get you around. We would love to help. Contact us today at Tom Bush BMW, and we can help you explore the attractions in style.

Fitness in Jacksonville: 4 Great Ways to Stay in Shape

If you're looking for ways to stay in shape in Jacksonville, FL, you're in luck. Our city is home to various fitness options, from walking outdoors to yoga studios. Check out the many different ways in Jax to stay fit and in shape! more Fitness in Jacksonville, FL: 4 Great Ways to Stay in Shape 1. Walking Outdoors Get a good pair of walking shoes and start exploring all the outdoor spaces around town. There are plenty of parks with paved trails or unpaved paths that you can use to go running, walking, biking, and more! The best part is they're usually free, so anyone can enjoy them no matter how much money they have in their pocket at any given time - which means there's no excuse not to get moving. The Jacksonville Arboretum and Gardens is a great place to go for a walk. Its gorgeous scenery and multiple walking trails make it suitable for all skill levels. If you're looking for something more adventurous, head down to The Julington-Durbin Preserve, where you'll find three trails totaling over 7 miles of hiking. These moderately difficult trails are full of natural flora and wildlife, so wear great shoes and remember your camera! 2. Crossfit If you're looking for a challenging and constantly-changing workout, Crossfit may be the right choice for you. Jax is home to quite a few Crossfit gyms, and most of them are open to anyone who wants to come to give it a try - regardless of your skill level. Just be prepared for a great workout and muscle soreness the next day! Crossfit is unique because the movements it uses are designed to mimic the motions we use every day. Crossfit is characterized by workouts that change daily and can be adjusted based on your physical ability and age. Although Crossfit can modify the intensity level, you should check with your doctor before starting any new exercise routine. 3. Join a Gym If you're looking for a more traditional workout and personal training, joining a gym is a great option. On St. John's Bluff Rd, the Florida Extreme Gym gets rave reviews for its group exercise and fat loss programs. Florida Extreme is an excellent choice with its amazing staff and unique, top-of-the-line equipment. You can also buy their group training and fat loss classes a la carte if you're looking to get in shape without breaking the bank. 4. Cycling Studio There are a few cycling studios in town, and they offer classes for all experience levels. If you're new to cycling, the studio will probably have instructors who can help you get started. And if you're looking for a more intense workout, most studios offer high-intensity classes that will definitely get your heart rate up. Rebel Studio Jax is a cycling and yoga studio in town which offers programs for all skill levels. The studio has several cycling classes, including a 45-minute full-body workout! If you're looking to get off the cycle, they have yoga classes that include power yoga and stretching. Jax is a great place to explore if you're looking to stay in shape. There are so many different options for getting fit here you'll never run out of options. Stop by Tom Bush BMW for a variety of fantastic choices for your next car. We'll be happy to set up a test drive!

5 Great Kid-Friendly Activities for Families Near Jacksonville, FL

Jacksonville, FL is a super city to visit for the whole family, with landmarks, attractions, and activities that people of all ages can enjoy. Whether you're interested in art, animals, science, or soft, sandy beaches, you'll find it all right here. Let's take a look at some of the best kid-friendly activities to try in and around the Jacksonville area. more 5 Great Kid-Friendly Activities for Families Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Meet the Animals at Jacksonville Zoo One of Jacksonville's most-visited landmarks, the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens draws in more than a million people each year, and it's not hard to see why. This is one of the best zoos in the country, home to tigers, apes, bears, and more. Any animal lovers in your family will have the time of their lives getting up close and personal with these creatures and learning all about the zoo's impressive animal conservation efforts. 2. Have a Splash at Adventure Landing Adventure Landing in Jacksonville Beach is one of the biggest family entertainment centers in the whole of northeast Florida, offering a huge selection of fun activities and thrilling experiences for every guest. The Shipwreck Island Waterpark is filled with huge slides and a half-million-gallon wave pool, but if you'd prefer to stay dry, the park also has golf courses, an arcade, laser tag, and batting cages. 3. Learn Something New at MOSH MOSH stands for the Museum of Science and History, and it's one of Jacksonville's best museums, perfect for families. Guests will find lots of intriguing and interactive exhibits here, teaching you all about everything from how the human body works to how the first Native Americans lived and prospered on Florida's lands many years ago. 4. Hit the Beach at Little Talbot Island Of course, whenever you're in Florida, one of the best things to do is head to the beach and soak up the sun. If you're in the Jacksonville area, Little Talbot Island State Park is a great place to go for some coastal fun. It's one of the last undeveloped barrier islands in the area, boasting several miles of pristine beaches and some beautiful bike trials, too. Families can play, walk, sunbathe, surf, and make many happy memories on this heavenly little island. 5. Escape into Nature at Tillie K. Fowler Park If you feel like getting away from the hustle and bustle of the big city streets, Tillie K. Fowler Regional Park is a really pleasant place to spend some time with the kids. This park features an array of hiking trails and well-maintained boardwalks, complete with a kids' playground, visitors center, and observation tower. It's a super spot for nature lovers and wildlife watchers of all ages. So, if you're planning a trip to Jacksonville with your family and looking for some fun things to do, you can choose from any of the exciting attractions and activities listed above to make your stay an enjoyable and memorable one. And if you're a car lover looking for another great place to visit in Jacksonville, the city's best BMW dealer is ready and waiting to welcome you. Visit Tom Bush BMW to browse a stunning selection of new and used BMW models.

Park path with leaves

7 Favorite Local Parks Near Jacksonville, FL

Looking to have some fun and enjoy some fresh air all right here in our local community when you check out the parks that we featured below. Each one of them let you have an outdoor adventure without leaving the Jacksonville, FL area, so you won't have to go far to have a whole lot of fun. more 7 Favorite Local Parks Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Lovelace Park If you're looking for a fun place to bring the kiddos for a day out that will give them plenty of activities to partake in, the playground at Lovelace Park makes the perfect destination. Whether they're swinging on the monkey bars or sliding down any of the several slides, they're sure to have a great time playing here. 2. James Weldon Johnson Park The first and oldest park in our city still makes a great place to visit even to this day. Originally a village green, the gardens here make a relaxing place to sit down and enjoy some fresh air. There are all sorts of fun and eye-catching sculptures on display here too, creating a unique atmosphere that you'll only find here. 3. Riverside Park Shoot some hoops at the basketball courts provided at Riverside Park, or just stretch out and enjoy the greenery and fresh air that you can find here. The picnic tables also provide you with some great spots to enjoy an outdoor meal, so bring a few sandwiches or snacks along to get the most out of your visit. 4. Jacksonville Drew Park Play ball at Jacksonville Drew Park and the four-diamond softball complex you can find on the premises here. You can also find outdoor grills here, so bring along some burgers or hot dogs and have an open-air cookout on your day out here. 5. Losco Regional Park Cool off in the warmer months with the splash pad that you can find at Losco Regional Park. The renovated playground features lots of innovative ways for any children playing here to have a whole lot of fun, making this every kids' favorite park to go to. 6. Stockton Park This dog-friendly spot makes a great place to bring out man's best friend for a walk or a run, with plenty of room for your furry friend to work off their energy. The beautiful scenery, including some spectacular views of the ocean, will ensure that you have as much fun as your canine companion does. 7. Memorial Park Beautiful views of the nearby waterfront make Memorial Park stand out among all the places you can plan a day out in our area. Anyone looking to do a little fishing can bring their rod along and cast out from the docks that you can find at this park. Take a ride in a new vehicle from our dealership to get yourself and your crew out to all of the great outdoor destinations that you can find here in our city. Get your next vehicle from Tom Bush BMW today!

3 girls looking at ocean

6 Fun Day Trips You Can Take Near Jacksonville, FL

Around Jacksonville, FL there are some genuinely excellent day trips you can take. To narrow down the brilliant options, the following is a list we've made detailing our favorites. more 6 Fun Day Trips You Can Take Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Blue Springs State Park This is a beautiful 2600 acre part of the St John's river, with crystal-clear blue waters, natural beauty, and exciting wildlife. We recommend visiting here during manatee season and looking out for the West Indian manatees that glide through the water in the springs. We believe this is a great spot to swim, kayak in, or book an ecological tour to make the most of this stunning scenery. The waters are pretty warm, which is an added bonus! 2. Amelia Island Only 30 miles from Jacksonville, Amelia Island is a paradise for birds and holiday-seekers alike. If you're outdoorsy, we advise you to head to the white-sand beaches such as Fernandina Beach and watch the gorgeous sunset rippling over the water. For a more cultural experience, the more inhabited part of the island has enlightening art galleries, a relaxed small-town to explore, and historic saloons. The island also hosts festivals and has rolling grass golf courses. 3. Palatka For a more historically immersive experience, we love Palatka's preserved town with homes and churches dating as far back as the 1800s. This small town is packed with cultural gems for art lovers; there's a blossoming creative scene. We advise going on a tour of the Palatka murals or visiting the galleries to see art aplenty. If you prefer nature, there's the nearby Ravine Gardens State Park, which displays two awe-inspiring ravines and thriving plant life. 4. Ichetucknee Springs We adore Ichetucknee Springs for its family-friendly atmosphere; the interconnecting transparent waterways are beloved by swimmers and tubers alike. Nearby stores are selling affordable tubes so that everyone can get in on the fun. In addition, these clear springs are bordered by well-established trees, making the whole area feel like a luxurious natural spa. You can soak up the sun by splashing about in the water here or search the trees for swooping birds. 5. Big Talbot Island State Park Another attractive option is this state park, which has a road running through it, perfect for inline skaters, cyclists, and handicapped visitors. We advise keen birdwatchers to head here because Big Talbot Island State Park preserves many exciting bird species flitting about in the wetlands. Suppose you want to see the island from the water. In that case, you can take a kayaking tour led by a knowledgeable guide that can give you a unique natural perspective. 6. Cedar Key This is a laid-back destination for those seeking a traditional holiday, renowned for its fishing opportunities and seafood restaurants. In addition, the Cedar Key Museum State Park, home to a Native American shell mound believed to be around 1,800 years old, is a beloved tourist attraction for families. From taking a dip in crystal-clear springs to photographing a mural embellished town, the area around Jacksonville provides magnificent opportunities for enjoyable trips. Visit us at Tom Bush BMW to get the reliable car that can get you to these beautiful locations!

3 of the Best Fishing Spots Near Jacksonville, FL

Located on the eastern coast of Florida and along the banks of the St. Johns River, the city of Jacksonville, FL, has always been associated with fishing and water sports. Whether you are an expert or an amateur angler, Jacksonville is not far from some excellent fishing spots where you can easily spend a day or more catching some great specimens of the local fish species. more 3 of the Best Fishing Spots Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Little Talbot Island State Park Located on Little Talbot Island, about 17 miles northeast of downtown Jacksonville, Little Talbot Island State Park is known for its sandy beaches, maritime forests, large tracts of saltwater marshes, and fishing bridges. This state park spans a surface area of more than 2,500 acres and was established in 1951 by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. Getting here from Jacksonville takes about half an hour by car, driving along Heckscher Drive. Some of the fish species you can find during your visit to Little Talbot Island State Park include redfish, striped bass, millet, bluefish, and sheepshead. Once you get to the entrance of the park, it is a good idea to talk to the ranger and ask for a map of the best fishing areas. This state park features public boat ramps that can be used by anglers on the north end of the island. 2. Jennings State Forest With a surface area of over 25,000 acres, Jennings State Forest is another popular destination among anglers from Jacksonville and other towns and cities in northern Florida. The best fishing areas in the forest are located within the Indian Ford Recreation Area, on the southern part of this expansive nature reserve. The most commonly found fish species here are largemouth bass, striped bass, catfish, sunfish, and crappie. In order to fish in the area, anglers most hold a valid license. The main entrance of Jennings State Forest is located about 40 miles southwest of the Jacksonville city center, making it possible to reach it in less than an hour by car along route I-10. Once here, grab your gear and head south to the Indian Ford Recreation Area, but make sure to take some time to explore the rest of the state forest and check out its beautiful landscapes. 3. Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge With excellent dockside and boat fishing opportunities, Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is an excellent destination for anglers looking for a quiet nature spot that can be visited as part of a day trip or a camping adventure. This nature reserve covers an area of more than 400,000 acres and was established in 1937, soon becoming a top-rated destination among anglers from all over northern Florida. Some of the fish species you can catch here include bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill. Are you ready to check out these fantastic fishing destinations? While you are on your way, stop by Tom Bush BMW Jacksonville. We have an extensive inventory of new and used vehicles and the most convenient financing plans in the market. Talk to our sales representatives and take home a new set of wheels for your next fishing adventure.

3 Great Outdoor Activities to Enjoy Near Jacksonville, FL

There's no better way to enjoy the beautiful weather of Jacksonville, FL than by visiting one of the city's many amazing outdoor attractions. From plants and parks to animals and arboretum, this city has got it all. Keep reading to discover our favorite outdoor activities located in and around Jacksonville. more 3 Great Outdoor Activities to Enjoy Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Jacksonville Zoo Jacksonville Zoo is the perfect place to travel the globe and see creatures from all around the world without ever leaving Florida. The zoo grounds span over 93 acres and are home to more than two thousand animals along with one thousand species of exotic plants. If you prefer to admire animals that are both exciting and close to home, be sure to check out the Wild Florida exhibit that houses turtles, black bears, alligators, and other native animals. When planning your trip around the zoo, it can be helpful to remember that animals are separated by continent, and the main dining area is located in Africa. We suggest heading over to Asia first to view Komodo dragons and tigers before walking along the main pathway to Australia, where you can spot kangaroos. South America hosts jaguars, the African forest exhibit is home to giraffes, and the African plains area is the place to go for rhinos and elephants. 2. Jacksonville Arboretum Jacksonville Arboretum is open daily for tours, special events, and the opportunity for visitors to view a wide variety of flora along a multitude of trails. Specialty plants are abundant at the arboretum, and our personal favorites range from avocado trees with enormous evergreen leaves to shrubs that produce miracle fruits that make sour foods taste sweet. Try to find your favorite plants on your walk, or simply wander around and find something new. If you're looking for the perfect blend of exercise and nature, you can find it at the Jacksonville Arboretum. For a short and easy walk, we suggest either the lake loop trail that travels 0.3 miles around Lake Ray or the live oak trail that passes through an ancient forest. If you're in search of a more strenuous walk, get your steps in while enjoying the beauty of the sand ridge trail through a marsh environment. 3. Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary is a nonprofit haven for endangered cats such as lions, pumas, leopards, tigers, and lynxes that are in need of a protective home. Everything is run by volunteers, and they've been saving the lives of abandoned and mistreated big cats for dozens of years. Before your visit, check out the resident section of their website to meet some of the animals you may see on your tour. Daytime tours of the Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary take place in the afternoon and guide visitors through the habitats of the animals. If you're up for a little bit more, book a night feeding tour to learn from an expert and witness the big cats consume more than six hundred pounds of meat. Alternatively, younger children are sure to enjoy an enrichment tour, which allows visitors the opportunity to observe the animals engaging in a rotating array of activities. No matter which of these amazing outdoor attractions you decide to visit first, we know that you'll love every minute. After you've enjoyed your visit, swing by Tom Bush BMW to find a reliable and quality vehicle!

Trail lined by grass

6 Incredible Biking Trails and Paths Near Jacksonville, FL

Jacksonville's parks have such a wide assortment of trails that all types of bikers will find something that suits them. Some trails are perfect for a laid-back family experience while others are perfect for extreme mountain bikers. The following are the best biking trails and paths in Jacksonville, FL. more 6 Incredible Biking Trails and Paths Near Jacksonville, FL 1.  Hanna Park Hanna Park is ideal for mountain bikers because the trails are relatively hard. You will need a bike that has good tires to handle the trail that changes abruptly from dirt to sand and then mud. Be sure to watch for rocks and roots which are common on the entire trail. One advantage of this park is it is directional (all bikes are headed in one direction), so you can just focus on the trail ahead. 2.  Little Talbot Island State Park The Little Talbot Island State Park has several trails that you can enjoy. You can choose to stick to the Park TImucan Trail section or you can venture into the maritime forest via the Dune Ridge Trail. If you are not feeling too adventurous, you can just ride along the beach, but be ready to cycle through the sand's resistance. The park also has rental bikes and a pavilion that has free air in case you need to fill your tires. 3.  Tillie K. Fowler Regional Park This park is perfect for those with a tight schedule not only because of its proximity to the central business district but also because of its short trails. You can ride in the morning or pass by later in the evening after leaving the office. The trails snake through wetlands and pines, thereby giving you a taste of old Florida. 4.  Jacksonville Baldwin Rail Trail This is a linear park trail which means it is one straight line. The trail was made from a railroad corridor, and it goes for 15 miles through rows of oaks that cast their shade on the path. The path is paved and that makes it an easy path to ride. If you are looking for a great spot to go biking with kids, Jacksonville Baldwin Rail Trail would be perfect. 5.  Beach and Peach Urban Park This trail is for the more experienced mountain bikers. The elaborate BMX trails here are popular with mountain bikers from within and out of state and national events are even hosted here. The trail has some exhilarating dirt jumps at all skill levels. Interestingly, all the trails at the park are created by hand (using shovels) in a bid to involve the community and also to make the trails unique and authentic. 6.  Guana State Park This park is a popular hiking and biking destination. The nature trails span 10 miles and weave around different attractions. You can combine your love for birds with biking by watching the different species that make this park home as you ride. After having an awesome day of biking at one of the above trails, visit us at Tom Bush BMW Jacksonville to see our sweet deals. You can lease or buy the car of your dreams, and we have financing options too.

Couple walking off an RV

4 Favorite Camping Destinations Near Jacksonville, FL

Camping in Jacksonville, FL, provide campers with loads of outdoor activities in beautiful surroundings. Camp between the dunes on pristine white beaches or deep in the maritime forests and discover the Florida wilderness on miles of hiking and biking trails that snake through the diverse ecosystem. Paddle and fish in rivers, ponds, salt marshes, and the ocean, and observe an abundance of bird and animal life. more 4 Favorite Camping Destinations Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Little Talbot Island State Park Campground Pitch your tent between the dunes surrounded by Southern magnolias in the shade of a dense live oak and American holly maritime hammock on one of the very few remaining undeveloped barrier islands in the state. The beautiful campground has 36 sites with water, 20 and 30 amp electricity, picnic tables, and fire rings. There are two restrooms with hot showers, a laundry facility, and a dump station. You can experience the island's untouched beauty and the abundant birdlife hiking and biking down four miles of trails that wind through forests and salt marshes. Kayak, canoe, and fish in the tidal creeks on the edge of the campground. There is a dock, a bait cleaning station, and a boat launch. The campground also has a campfire circle, playground, and easy access to the scenic Nature Loop Trail. 2. Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park Campground The park runs for 450-acres along a pristine white beach where you can laze the day away in the hot Florida sun and cool off in the ocean. Wildlife such as alligators, foxes, shorebirds, and wading birds are plentiful and can be observed on over 20 miles of hiking and biking trails. The park is well known for its popular mountain biking trail suitable for both novice and experienced riders. There is a freshwater pond for fishing and paddling, and the little ones can enjoy the splash park and playground. The campground is set in a shady area in the woods with 300 tent and RV sites, or you can sleep in one of the rustic cabins. The campground has electric and water hookups, restrooms with hot showers, a dump station, and 24-hour security. There is also a camp store with everything you need to ensure a comfortable stay. 3. Huguenot Memorial Park Campground The scenic 295-acre park is on a peninsula surrounded by rivers and the Atlantic Ocean. The campground has 70 RV and tent sites with electricity. The lack of sewer and water facilities is well worth the sacrifice of sleeping on a pristine sandy beach. Pack your surfboard, kayak, and fishing gear, and if you enjoy birdwatching, the Great Florida Birding Trail cuts through the park. It's a wildlife area and is considered the prime birding destination in the county by the Duval Audubon Society. You can find out more about the conservation efforts, especially the nesting terns and shorebirds, at the Nature Center, where there are interactive displays, reference books, and knowledgeable naturalists. You are welcome to bring your pooch along to enjoy the beach with you, but your pet must be kept on a leash at all times. 4. Flamingo Lake RV Resort Camp out in your RV in the breathtaking Florida wilderness on the shores of Flamingo Lake with every modern amenity you could possibly dream of. The pet-friendly resort offers spacious back-in and pull-through RV lakefront and lake view sites. Each campsite has a gravel or paved pad, full hookups, a picnic table, and Wi-Fi. The luxury lakefront sites can accommodate big rigs with added double swing seats and raised cast iron bonfire pits. There is a laundry facility, camp store, and dump station. You can paddle, fish, and swim in the 17-acre Flamingo Lake, relax on the beach, take your four-legged friend to play at the pet area, and dine at the Flamingo Lake Sunrise Café. The resort also has a playground, clubhouse, fitness center, and swimming pool. Get ready for a camp experience of a lifetime in one of the most beautiful destinations in the country. Visit Tom Bush BMW Jacksonville today. Our friendly and professional automotive experts will ensure that your vehicle runs at its best.

2 people hiking

4 Favorite Local Hiking Trails Near Jacksonville, FL

Despite being one of the largest cities in the state, Jacksonville, FL will surprise you with its many miles of beautiful hiking trails. Whether you're taking a hike through one of Jacksonville's many green spaces or a stroll down near the beach, you're sure to appreciate this area of outstanding natural beauty. more 4 Favorite Local Hiking Trails Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Jacksonville Arboretum and Gardens Jacksonville Arboretum and the surrounding gardens include many miles of trails to explore. most of them are fairly short, but walkers will love the variety of tree species and plants and the views of the man-made lake are stunning. If you prefer a more strenuous hike, then the Upper Ravine rail, located on the south side. The views from here are amazing too, especially during the winter when the lack of leaves on the trees allows you great views of the parks and cities. Another trail to attempt that will be of special interest to botanists is the Live Oak Trail which features several ancient oak trees of 100 years old or more. 2. Julington-Durbin Preserve This preserve is formed by the fork made by the confluence of two streams, Julington and Durbin Creeks. The preserve is full of lush green foliage and includes numerous diverse habitats, including low flatwoods, sandhills, and lush floodplain swamps. The preserve includes a moderately difficult trail that winds for over 20 miles through the Preserve and past a tranquil lake. While the trail is mostly flat underfoot, it does include some patches that are tricky to navigate underfoot. 3. Tillie K. Fowler Regional Park The largest city-maintained park in Jacksonville, Tillie K Fowler Regional Park stretches for over 500 acres on the banks of the lower Ortega River. It is widely known as a great place for wildlife watching, with an observation tower and nature center where visitors can learn about the unique riverine wildlife here. One of the best hikes here is the Island Hiking Trail, a gorgeous trail that takes you through the peaceful forests of the park. 4. Talbot Islands State Parks Comprising of two neighboring state parks, Little and Big Talbot Islands, this area forms a stop-off point on the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, so you can be sure to see some incredible wildlife here. Terns are particularly common here, including the rarer Royal Tern, but you can also expect to see Wilson's Plovers, and if the lucky may even spot Bald Eagles fishing these waters during the winter and early spring. The Black Rock Trail is a great hiking trail to explore and takes you past some incredible sandy rock formations and incredible views of the river delta and the sea. These are just some of the beautiful trails to be found nearby, but whichever you decide to choose, you'll be rewarded with a chance to soak up the beautiful landscapes that Jacksonville has to offer. And, if you're looking for a new vehicle to take you on your next hike, look no further! Head down to Tom Bush BMW today, where our incredible team will be happy to help you find your new car.

Tree Branches

Top 6 Things to Do at Big Talbot Island State Park

Big Talbot Island State Park is one of Northeast Florida's beautiful sea islands and a natural preserve with unique eco-systems. Hiking and biking trails wind their way through breathtaking maritime forests and marshes to pristine golden beaches. Fish and paddle on the salt marsh, creeks, or in the ocean, and if you visit from November to March, you will spot the spray of Northern Atlantic Right Whales from the coast. more Top 6 Things to Do at Big Talbot Island State Park 1. Hiking Explore the beautiful island hiking and see white-tailed deer, raccoons, and gopher tortoises along the way. Hike on the Pine trail along the shoreline to the marsh. The Blackrock Trail winds through the maritime hammock and down to the beach, and the Old Kings Highway and Jones Cut through the coastal woodlands. The Shoreline Trail meanders to Nassau Sound and Boneyard Beach and winds through the skeletons of live oak and cedar trees near the shore. The park also offers ranger-led guided hikes on request. 2. Biking The park has miles of paved and unpaved trails for biking. Cycle down the 3.9-mile paved multi-purpose Timucuan Trail through the maritime forest and enjoy panoramic views of Spoonbill Pond and Nassau Sound. Find information on the natural wonders on the interpretive panels along the way. The Shoreline Trail, Black Rock Trail, Kings Highway, and Jones Cut provide miles of mountain biking trails through live oak forests and to the park's beaches. 3. Birdwatching The park is a haven for birdwatchers with covered birding pavillions along the elevated boardwalk at Spoonbill Pond. Here wading birds and foraging shorebirds are in abundance. You will see barred owls, pileated woodpeckers, painted buntings, and doves in the trees on the hiking trails that snake through the forest. On a stroll along the beach, birders spot brown pelicans, osprey, terns, piping plovers, and black skimmers. During the winter, bald eagles soar above the shoreline and sit in the pines at Spoonbill Pond. 4. Fishing The park is a prime destination for angling, with plenty of excellent fishing spots along the ocean shoreline, in the creeks, and the large saltwater marsh that surrounds the island. Here you can fish from the shores, boats, the floating dock, or the George Crady Bridge Fishing Pier. Anglers hook whiting, redfish, speckled sea trout, and flounder all year round. The island is a popular fly-fishing area during the fall and spring flood tides when tailing reds are abundant. Off Simpson's Creek bridge, black drum is plentiful, and half-mile down the Blackrock Trail, fishermen reel in pompano and flounder at the point. 5. Boating and Paddling Boating enthusiasts have numerous options to enjoy the creeks, marshes, and the Atlantic Ocean on powerboats, canoes, or kayaks. From the southern end of the island, at Kayak Amelia, canoeists and kayakers can explore the salt marsh or float down Simpson's and Myrtle Creeks. Boaters can reach Nassau Sound and the Atlantic Ocean from the deep-water boat ramp at the north end of the island.  Kayak Amelia offers guided paddle tours and kayak and paddleboard rentals. This pristine island park's diverse habitats and abundance of wildlife is the ultimate destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Contact Tom Bush BMW today. Our qualified technicians are here to ensure that your vehicle is in excellent running condition.

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