Swamp Tromp in the Green Swamp

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Take a hiking excursion thorough the Green Swamp | NatureFest 2013 Central Florida: Hike through the Green Swamp and discover wildlife from birds and rare plants in The Liquid Heat of Florida in Central Florida, Day 2 Excursion October 4 for NatureFest 2013.

Explore like the early settlers of Florida once did. Hike; yes HIKE through the Green Swamp!

Day 2 Excursion NatureFest

Wade through water over your boots while learning about the importance of this unique ecosystem, The Liquid Heart of Florida. It is not every day that you will find yourself taking the road less traveled, so do not miss out on this excursion. During this excursion cypress knees are not the only knees getting wet. Yes, you will get wet up to your knees, if you so choose. All are encouraged to Swamp Tromp into a tranquil cypress dome.

Located At

Green Swamp East
Rock Ridge Road
Lakeland, FL 33809

Driving Directions

From US 98 North, turn right onto Rock Ridge Road. Follow Rock Ridge Road 5.4 miles. At the fork in the road turn left to stay on Rock Ridge Road. The entrance to the Green Swamp East is 4.7 miles east on the left side of the road.

GPS Coordinates

N 28° 18.183 W 081° 55.124

Excursion Details

  • Friday, October 4 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
  • Type: Wilderness Tour
  • Cost (Per Person): $10.00
  • Max People: 10
  • Where To Meet: Green Swamp East off of Rockridge Road

Your Excursion Guide

Paul Elliot

Paul has been hiking in the Green Swamp for almost 32 years. As the land manager for the Green Swamp for the Southwest Florida Water Management District, Paul is the perfect guide. He has over 35 years of experience as a wildlife biologist. If you are looking for a guide that can show you the magic of the Green Swamp, we’ve found him. Paul knows the history of the swamp, how the swamp works, and why still today the Swamp still needs our protection. From the pitcher plants scattered in the wet prairies, to the Tillandsia in the canopy; Paul will provide you an experience you will not forget. Come see the butterflies and wildflowers.

What To Expect?

You will get wet up to your knees, maybe higher if you so choose. An intact ecosystem, the Green Swamp attracts many types of wildlife. Wading bird rookeries are used by wood storks, a variety of egrets and white ibis. Threatened Florida scrub-jays inhabit scrub and scrubby flatwoods. A small population of insect-eating hooded pitcher plants marks one of the southernmost occurrences of these rare plants in the United States. The beautiful pine lily is in bloom late fall, early winter.

What To Bring?

Comfortable Walking Shoes, Water Bottle, Binoculars, Camera, Snacks and Brown Bag Lunch, Rain Gear, Sunscreen, Hat, Sunglasses, Insect Repellent. Dry change of clothes and shoes.