Over the years, I’ve come across hidden spots, quiet and peaceful trails, that I never thought of finding on a simple walk at the park. Some places offer something rare: a quick, meaningful reconnection with nature. Although for me, the journey doesn’t stop at the trail.
The trail is just the beginning. While you walk you can hear echoes of those who came before, the spirit of traditions still lingering in the breeze. In South Florida, where cultures meet and memories root deep in the soil, nature becomes more than a view — it becomes a feeling, a connection, a kind of memory.
Through this series, I hope to share not only the beauty of these places but also the deeper context that makes them truly special. The importance of restoring an ecosystem and selecting native plant material not only enhances its resilience, but it provides better stability for the entire environment.
The Linear Park at Plantation Preserve
The first episode of this new series is dedicated to one of my favorite hidden gems in the City of Plantation: The Linear Park at Plantation Preserve. What is Unique about this place? Let’s start with its history.
Historical Site
Along the 1.1 miles long trail, you get to see different scenic views, of what was once a Native American settlement. During the excavation of the original Plantation Golf Course in 1950, artifacts and human remains were discovered in the area.
The archaeological findings belong to the Tequesta indigenous people, whose presence in South Florida dates to over 2000 years ago. As a result, some of the artifacts found on the site are preserved today by the Broward County Archaeology Society. The Tequesta burial mound can be found on the south side of the trail. Once you get there, you will find a trail stop that tells you about the findings that were made during the excavations.
If you would like to find out more about the Tequesta Indigenous Culture, Plantation Historical Museum has a wonderful exhibit visit: Historical Museum | City of Plantation, Florida
Plantation Preserve Habitat and Ecosystem
You can find this unique park only one block away from West Broward Boulevard and 70th Ave. It supports wildlife across all levels of the Everglades food chain. This is probably one of the most exceptional features of the park.
Native marsh vegetation provides habitat for different kinds of animals. You can stop by the body of water to spot different insects, fish, turtles (just beware of the gators), and while walking the trail you can pass along the forested islands, where you can spot uncountable species of birds. Some that I personally spotted were owls, great egrets, blue herons, hawks, and ospreys. The best you can do is to walk as silently as possible. Make sure you don’t scare them away.
Ecological Restoration
Today’s ecosystem in Plantation is completely different from the one that the Everglades once was. First, the land was partially drained at the beginning of the 1900s, and filled in to promote construction of a canal and allow people to farm. Then, the 1928 hurricane season brought the US Army Corps of Engineers to construct a dike around Lake Okeechobee. Eventually, this caused a considerable shift to the water flow, affecting the entire South Florida ecosystem.
Wetlands at the Plantation Preserve were eventually excavated to support the native water flow and depths. You can spot different kinds of wetland plants, like Spike rush, Duck Potato, and Fire flag. In elevation, you will find Cypresses, Pond apples, and Cocoplum, to reflect the historic habitat.
Why should we care?
The idea of restoring an ecosystem inside an urban development is fascinating. While walking through the residential areas, you would never imagine finding a refuge of such diverse wildlife that showcases our local ecology. It is important to consider the role of native plant material when we look at a restored site. Why does it matter? It supports a resilient ecosystem, and it helps protect endemic species.
If you’re able, step out of your car for just a minute and visit the Linear Park. You’ll find yourself transported to a completely different setting — a peaceful natural space placed right within the urban landscape.
The park is open from dawn to dusk, and it can be easily crossed on foot or on a bike.
Here is the address: Plantation Preserve Golf Course & Club, 7050 West Broward Blvd., Plantation, FL 33317
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