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Hammock Trails at Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge

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There are two trails at the Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge that are worth exploring:

The Oak Hammock Trail.

This is a relatively short trail through a subtropical forest. Even though this trail is only about a half mile in length, it offers some of the best song bird viewing in the area. Typical specie sightings from October through April include the following:

  • Northern Parula -- listen for the characteristic trill.
  • Black and White Warbler -- Look toward the base of large branches and trunks. Marvel as they walk headfirst down the trunk.
  • Crested Flycatcher
  • Palm Warbler
  • Solitary Vireo
  • Carolina Wren
  • Yellow-Bellied Sapsucker
  • Red-bellied Woodpecker

The Palm Hammock Trail.

The Palm Hammock trail normally traverses hardwood forest, cabbage palm and open marsh. Unfortunately, not all of the trail is open because of the tropical storms last summer and fall.

There is a good length of trail still accessible, and it offers additional opportunities for great sightings.

Mornings and late afternoon are the best times for sighting song birds. Be sure to bring your binoculars.

DIRECTIONS

  • From I-95: Exit 80, east on Garden Street to US 1.
  • Cross US1 and travel east on SR402/406 across the Max A. Brewer Causeway
  • Continue on SR402 for 1.2 miles past the Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge Visitors Center
  • Look for a small "Hammocks Trails" sign just before the left turn into the parking area.

NOTE: There are no restroom facilities on the trails.

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