New River Greenway Trail (Bike Ride from University Drive To Everglades Levy-West End of Markham Park, Round-trip: 2+ Hours): This trail is one of the Greenways (A walk/bike road) in Broward County. I started from the paved trail at the University Drive (North side of State Road 84 by the Canal) to the west end of Markham Park. It is about 8+ miles one way. From there, you can ride more on the levy (20+ miles) of unpaved road if you have a mountain bike. No motorized vehicles are allowed on this trail so it is safe and relaxing. Starting from the University Drive, there are five major intersections to cross though (Pine Island, Nob Hill, Hiatus Road, Flamingo Road, and 136th Street). You have to follow the pedestrian traffic lights. The trail is mostly un-shaded but very wide and safe. I parked near a McDonalds at the North West corner of University Drive and State Road 84. There are other parking places by the trail. Having free parking places along the trail is also an attraction since there are not many in Broward County. If one wants, commuting by bike from West to East, is possible now.
West View from University Drive (From Left I-595/State Road 84, Water Management Canal, and Trail)
Everglades View from West End of Markham Park
T.Y. (Topeekeegee Yugnee) Park (Walking/Biking Ride 1+ Hours): One of the best parks in South Florida. The name comes from the Seminole Indian, meaning ‘meeting or gathering place’. Even though it is located next to I-95 (on Sheridan Street), walking here makes you feel like being in a forest. The paved trail is about two miles long and mostly shaded with beautiful ancient oak trees. All different colors of fallen leaves lie on the ground year around. When it’s cool, it looks like autumn and when it is hot, it looks tropical. Plenty of parking available. Just walk or bike and listen to the nature in the middle of the city. Walking club registration is available in the office. Register and collect miles each time you walk. You get incentives after a certain number of miles.
Old Tree in T. Y. Park (Topeekeegee Yugnee Park)
Bike Ride at Pompano Beach Airpark (1 Hour): Being able to carry my bike in my car opens up many possibilities and makes me more active. This is a 4.5+ mile paved loop trail on the perimeter of the golf course, a small airport, and a Dog Park (good size). There are plenty of parking spaces available including the shopping center parking lot. The dog park is the biggest fenced park I have ever seen. This is the home of the Goodyear Blimp (now two). Great convenient trails to bike ride, walk, jog, roller blade, or shop! It is simple and easy thing to do, but can be exotic with the blue sky and fresh air!
Goodyear Blimp Base at Pompano Beach Air Park
Walking Dania Beach to Hollywood Beach (1-3 Hours): The walk from Dania Beach Pier down to Hollywood Beach Boardwalk is more like a nature walk than a city stroll. Sea Oats growing along the oceanfront build dunes that help hold the sand, thus protecting the shoreline from erosion and storm surge. Also, when you pass by the sea grape forest and smell the fermented reddish fruit on the ground, it reminds of you the smell of a local tavern. Sea grapes are used in landscaping as well as a dune stabilizers and coastal windbreaks. The reddish fruits of the sea grape may be eaten raw, cooked into jellies and jams, or fermented into sea grape wine.
Sea Grapes
Walking on the Fort Lauderdale Beach (1+ Hours): Public parking spaces are available at various locations. I like to walk from South Fort Lauderdale beach toward Sunrise Boulevard and return. In between, I stroll at Beach Place or just sit and watch people passing by. I have walked various times between 6 AM to 2 AM. During the morning walk, watch the ocean, enjoy a cup of coffee, and be at peace with the fresh air and soothing waves. During an evening or night walk, feel the cool ocean breeze and the tang of the salt air. All Priceless gifts that cost nothing more than a small effort on our part to enjoy. More information: City of Fort Lauderdale Website.
Fort Lauderdale Beach (Lifeguard Station #5)
Morning Walk on 17th Street Causeway Bridge (1 Hour Activity): Fort Lauderdale is 8 feet (2.7 meters) above sea level. Walking on the bridge is more peaceful early morning when everything is quiet. You can find many runners and cyclists. Beautiful view of the Port Everglades (South) and the City (North). Breakfast places are west of the bridge: Einstein Bagel or Starbucks.