Green tip: Visit Four Mile Cover Ecological Preserve

A great attraction to visit and recommend for ecologically aware visitors and nature lovers is Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve in Cape Coral.

At 365 acres, Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve is the second largest preserved green space in Cape Coral that has been improved for public use. Located just north of Veteran's Parkway, Four Mile Cove is a brackish water wetland area that features a walking trail, visitor center, veterans memorial area and seasonal kayak rentals.

Visitors of any age can walk through the preserve on the boardwalk, and adults and children over age 6 can explore the park via kayak. Possible wildlife sightings include eagles, ibis, herons, other wading and migratory birds, raccoons, snakes and more. The visitor’s center provides information on programs, local wildlife, trail guides and bathroom facilities. The walking trails and veterans memorial area are accessible year-round, while the kayak shack is open seasonally.

As the City of Cape Coral was being developed, the state mandated the area, which was known locally as Four Mile Cove, be preserved. Now, the property is leased from the state to the city to operate as a preserve. The trail system was funded by grants, and as a condition of these grants, the city must manage the park to benefit the wildlife. Therefore, human intrusion is kept to a minimum. Dogs are not permitted on the trails and neither is jogging, skateboarding, biking, skating or rollerblading.

For more information on Four Mile Cove, visit http://www.fortmyers-sanibel.com/listings/8440/3.

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