Wade Ward Nature Park: A Coastal Wetland Escape
Discover a peaceful wetland escape in the heart of Gulf Shores, offering boardwalks, birdwatching, and a chance to connect with nature.
Wade Ward Nature Park is a 12-acre natural area in the heart of Gulf Shores, Alabama, offering a serene escape into a coastal wetland environment. Featuring elevated boardwalks, the park provides visitors with beautiful views of the waterways connecting Little Lagoon and Lake Shelby, making it a prime location for birdwatching and wildlife observation.
A brief summary to Wade Ward Nature Park
- 500 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, Alabama, 36542, US
- Click to display
- Click to display
- Monday 6 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-10 pm
- Thursday 6 am-10 pm
- Friday 6 am-10 pm
- Saturday 6 am-10 pm
- Sunday 6 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Bring binoculars for optimal birdwatching and wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking the trails and boardwalks.
- Apply sunscreen and insect repellent to protect yourself from the elements.
- Visit during the spring or fall for milder weather and increased animal activity.
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Getting There
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Walking
Wade Ward Nature Park is located two blocks north of Gulf Place, the main public beach in Gulf Shores. From Gulf Place, walk north on Gulf Shores Parkway (Highway 59) for two blocks. The park entrance will be on your right.
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Public Transport
The Coastal Express Trolley provides transportation around Gulf Shores [https://www.gulfshoresal.gov/DocumentCenter/View/3284/2024-Trolley-Brochure]. Check the trolley route for the nearest stop to Wade Ward Nature Park. From the trolley stop, follow the walking directions to the park. Trolley fare is $1 per ride [https://www.gulfshoresal.gov/2013/Coastal-Express-Trolley].
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From anywhere in Gulf Shores, a taxi or ride-share service (Uber/Lyft) can bring you to Wade Ward Nature Park. The drop-off location is 500 Gulf Shores Parkway. A typical ride from Gulf State Park Pier to Wade Ward Nature Park costs approximately $15-$25.
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