Spruce Bluff Preserve: A Journey Through Time and Nature
Discover historical trails and natural beauty at Spruce Bluff Preserve in Port St. Lucie, Florida.
Spruce Bluff Preserve, a 97-acre site in Port St. Lucie, Florida, invites visitors to explore its diverse ecosystems and rich history. The preserve features two self-guided interpretive trails, each offering a distinct experience. The Pioneer Trail, a loop trail, guides you through the site of an 1891 pioneer settlement and cemetery along the banks of the St. Lucie River. Settled in 1891, the community of Spruce Bluff included a school, post office, and sawmill. Though little remains of the settlement itself, the trail offers a glimpse into the lives of early settlers who farmed citrus and pineapples in the area. The trail meanders through a beautiful Sand Pine Forest, where you can enjoy the scents of fresh pine and wild rosemary. Across the street from the parking area, the Ais Trail leads to a significant Native American mound. This trail highlights the history of the Ais tribe, who inhabited the area long before the pioneers. The mound, about 20 feet high and 180 feet wide, may date back hundreds or thousands of years. The trail can be a bit tricky, with some wetter areas and boardwalks surrounded by saltbush and willow. Keep an eye out for songbirds and unique plant life like sundews and wild orchids. Spruce Bluff Preserve is also a haven for wildlife, including manatees, dolphins, alligators, and various bird species. The preserve is accessible by car and uniquely accessible by canoe from the St. Lucie River's North Fork.
Local tips
- Wear appropriate footwear, as some trails can be wet and muddy, especially the Ais Trail.
- Bring insect repellent, as mosquitoes can be prevalent.
- Take your time to read the interpretive signs along the trails to learn about the history and ecology of the area.
- Bring a camera to capture the diverse wildlife and scenic views.
- Consider visiting during the cooler months for a more comfortable hiking experience.
A brief summary to Spruce Bluff Preserve
- 611 Dar Ln, Port St. Lucie, Florida, 34984, US
- +1772-462-2526
Getting There
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Driving
Spruce Bluff Preserve is located at 611 Dar Ln, Port St. Lucie, FL 34984. From Florida's Turnpike, drive 1.5 miles east on Port St. Lucie Blvd to Floresta Dr. Turn right on Floresta and drive south 0.7 mile to Southbend. Turn left on Southbend, then make a left on Peru Street. After 0.5 mile, turn left on Dar Lane, and left into the entrance for the preserve. Parking is available at the trailheads. Parking is free. Limited parking is available, so arrive early.
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Public Transport
From downtown Fort Pierce, take the Route 1 bus towards Port St. Lucie. Get off at the stop at Virginia Avenue and US-1. From there, walk east on Virginia Avenue until you reach 25th Street. Turn right on 25th Street and follow it until it ends at the entrance of Spruce Bluff Preserve at 611 Dar Lane, Port St. Lucie. St. Lucie County has a public transit system, SLCart, but it may not have direct service to the preserve. Check the SLCart website for routes and schedules. A single ride fare is around $1-$3.
