Arrive right around 8:00 AM during cooler winter and spring months. Early morning gives you the best light on the 74-foot canopy tower, cooler hiking trails, and plenty of parking before midday crowds arrive.
Spanning 37,000 acres of wetlands, prairies, hammocks, and pinelands just 9 miles east of I-75 near Sarasota, Myakka River State Park shows off wild, untamed "Old Florida" at its finest. Located roughly 2 hours and 10 minutes southwest of Kissimmee, it makes an easy, deeply rewarding day trip.
The Famous Canopy Walkway & Observation Tower
The park’s signature attraction is North America’s first public treetop trail. A gentle walk through the oak and palm hammock brings you to a 100-foot-long suspension bridge swaying 25 feet above the forest floor, surrounded by bromeliads and resurrection ferns. At the far end, stairs climb to a 74-foot observation tower offering sweeping 360-degree views above the canopy across miles of untouched river prairie.
2026 Admission, Hours & Park Entrances
- Address: 13207 State Road 72, Sarasota, FL 34241.
- Hours: Open 365 days a year from 8:00 AM until sunset (the North Gate is open weekends and state holidays from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM).
- Admission Fee: $6.00 per vehicle (2 to 8 people), $4.00 single-occupant vehicle, $2.00 pedestrians/cyclists.
- Canopy Walkway Cost: Free with standard park entry (no pets permitted on the bridge or tower).
Wildlife Boat Tours, Kayaking & Birding
Upper Myakka Lake is famous for dense populations of American alligators, roseate spoonbills, wood storks, and ospreys. Guided safari-style boat tours depart from the Myakka Outpost when seasonal water levels allow—offering a narrated look at the river ecosystem. Prefer to explore at your own pace? Kayak and canoe rentals are also available near the outpost, or you can walk the Birdwalk boardwalk right along the marsh edge.
If you have extra time on your Sarasota loop, drive 35 minutes south to soak in the 87°F waters of Warm Mineral Springs Park before heading back toward Kissimmee.
Discover Wildlife & Eco-Tours Across Florida
Book airboat rides, kayak wildlife excursions, and guided nature tours via Klook.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Canopy Walkway at Myakka River State Park cost extra?
No. Access to the treetop suspension bridge and 74-foot observation tower is included with your standard $6.00 per-vehicle park admission.
Are pets allowed on the Myakka Canopy Walkway?
No. Pets are strictly prohibited on the Canopy Walkway suspension bridge and observation tower for safety reasons.
Do the Myakka River boat tours run every day?
Guided lake boat tours operate regularly, though extreme high or low seasonal water levels can temporarily pause departures. Check at the ranger station or outpost upon arrival for the day’s schedule.