Friends of The GTM

Moonlight Hike
2025-10-04 20:00 - 22:00, 2025-12-06 20:00 - 22:00 UTC | GTM Research Reserve, 505 Guana River Rd., Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, 32082, United States
Experience the GTM Trails after dark! Enjoy exclusive after-hours access for a peaceful, self-guided Moonlight Hike from 8-10 p.m. Normally closed by sunset, the trails will be open for a self-paced moonlight hike, providing a peaceful chance to explore nature after dark under the full moon.

$10 – Pre-registration (credit card online).
$20 – Day-of (cash only at the trailhead).

Pre-registration is strongly encouraged to guarantee you a spot. Flashlights or headlamps recommended. Take in GTM Research Reserve in a whole new light!
REGISTER HERE!

Nature Journaling
2025-10-09 09:50 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | GTM Research Reserve, 505 Guana River Rd., Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, 32082, United States
On the first Thursday of every month (except July), join nature journaling instructor Elaine Bergstrom at GTM Research Reserve to explore the wonders at the reserve. Each month focuses on a different topic using words, pictures, and numbers to learn more about what we observe. Meet at the Visitor Center lobby.
Please CLICK HERE to reserve a spot online for nature journaling.
Frequently asked questions:
What should I wear?

Please wear clothing that is appropriate for the outdoors. It’s recommended to dress in layers and prepare for any weather.

Can I bring my dog?

Not during the Nature Journaling event. Otherwise, dogs are permitted on GTM trails and beaches if they are on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Please remember that all dogs must remain on a leash, and the owner must promptly clean all waste. Please be mindful of other visitors when bringing a dog.

What should I bring?

Please bring a reusable water bottle, hat, insect repellent, sunscreen (strongly recommended), and binoculars.

Where should I meet my guide?

The Visitor Center lobby.

If I run late, where do I find the group?

The Visitor Center staff can direct you to the group’s location upon your arrival.

What will I learn from this?

Each month focuses on a different topic using words, pictures, and numbers to learn more about what we observe.

Are there any fees?

There is a $3 fee per vehicle. Park, scan QR code (premiumparking.com) or text the lot number and follow directions.

Is there anything else to see afterward?
There are 6 hiking trails that you can explore at the GTM Trailhead Pavilion. GTM’s Visitor Center is also open from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. Enjoy the beach and collect shells, swim in the ocean, or lay in the sun – have a family day! A $3 parking pass is required for parking at the Trailhead and GTM beach accesses.

Family Seining
2025-10-11 09:00 - 11:00 (America/New_York) | Guana Dam, 505 Guana River Road, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, 32082, United States
Join GTM Research Reserve on the second Saturday of each month for a guided family seining activity. Pull a seine net through Guana Lake, collecting species of fish, crabs, and other habitats. Learn about the animals and their roles. All necessary gear, including waders and boots, will be provided.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER.
Do I need a reservation to attend?

Yes, register online by following the links provided above.

If I can’t make it, how do I cancel my reservation?

When you register, you receive an email confirmation with information about canceling.

How old does my child need to be to attend?

There is no age limit, but your child must be at least three feet tall to hold the seine net.

What should I wear?

Appropriate clothing for the outdoors is recommended. Dress in layers and prepare for any type of weather. Closed-toe shoes are encouraged and wearing flip-flops is discouraged. We provide booties and waders, but you can bring your gear.

What should I bring?

A reusable water bottle (that can be filled up onsite), insect repellent (strongly recommended), sunscreen, and binoculars/cameras are suggested.

Can I bring my dog?

Family pets/dogs cannot attend the family seining, as they may distract participants and disrupt native wildlife.

Where should I meet my guide?

CLICK HERE for a Google Map. Your guide will be waiting at Guana Dam, 15 minutes before the scheduled program. The event begins at 9 am.

What will I catch?

The seine nets catch various types of fish, crabs, shrimp, shells, and plant life.

Are there any fees?

Only a $3/vehicle fee for parking. Park, scan QR code (premiumparking.com) or text the lot number and follow directions.

Is there anything else to see afterward?

Have lunch at the Trailhead Pavilion and explore one of the many trails. You will also have access to the beaches at the South, Middle, and North access lots (for which your parking tag will apply for same-day use, as well as get your $3 worth). Tour the Visitor Center free of admission. It is open Tuesday- Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Beach Exploration
2025-10-18 09:00 - 11:00 (America/New_York) | GTM Research Reserve, 505 Guana River Rd., Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, 32082, United States
Join GTM Research Reserve docents for a beach walk. Learn about the animals that call the beach their home, plus discover seashells and other interesting facts. This is a “Beaches 101” experience the entire family will enjoy. The hike begins at the Visitor Center where you learn about the different habitats on GTM’s beautiful seashore. Afterward, the group heads to the beach for a salty adventure. Parking is in front of the Visitor Center.
The Visitor Center Address: 505 Guana River Road, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082.
Please CLICK HERE to reserve a spot online for the Beach Exploration.
Do I need a reservation to attend?

Yes, register online by following the links provided above.

If I can’t make it, how do I cancel my reservation?

When you register, you receive an email confirmation with information about canceling.

What should I wear?

Appropriate clothing for the outdoors is recommended. Dress in layers and prepare for any type of weather. Closed-toe shoes are encouraged but not required. Hats protect your skin from the sun, along with sunscreen. Bug spray is also suggested.

What should I bring?

A reusable water bottle (that can be filled up onsite), insect repellent (strongly recommended), sunscreen, and binoculars/cameras are suggested.

Where should I meet my guide?

CLICK HERE for a Google Map. Your guide will be waiting at the GTM Visitor Center, 15 minutes prior to the scheduled hike.

How long is the walk?

The walk is about half a mile, round trip. The hike leaders guide everyone ~0.25 miles, one way. You can continue or turn around if necessary. At any point during the hike, visitors can take swim breaks in the beautiful ocean.

What will I learn?

The GTM Research Reserve interpretive guide discusses where the restless sand comes from, where it’s going and its refusal to stay put. Ask why the sand is fine or coarse and how it got its color. Learn about coquina rocks, dune flowers, sea birds, shells, and the humble gopher tortoise that digs deep burrows and comes out to dine on prickly pears along the dunes.

How old does my child need to be to attend? Can I push a stroller?

There are no age restrictions for this hike, but the Florida heat can be uncomfortable for small children. You can push a stroller; however, we strongly recommend strollers with large beach-capable wheels.

I have a bad back. Can I still participate in this hike?

The hike is moderately paced with soft sand terrain. Join the hike if you feel comfortable walking through beach sand for about half of a mile.

Can I bring my dog?

Family pets/dogs cannot join the educational hikes, as they may distract participants and disrupt native wildlife.

Is there anything else to see afterward?
If you like, stay at the beach longer and collect shells, swim in the ocean, or lie in the sun. You can purchase a $3 parking pass to enjoy the Dam area, where visitors fish, and rent kayaks or paddle-boards. Hike one of the beautiful trails, head to one of the three beach lots, or hang out in the Visitor Center to learn more about the reserve’s natural surroundings.

Marineland River to Sea Preserve Trail Walk
2025-10-22 09:00 - 11:00 UTC | River to Sea Preserve, 9805 N Ocean Shore Blvd,, Palm Coast, FL, 32137, United States
The GTM Research Reserve offers you an opportunity to follow the wooded trail to the Matanzas River at the River-to-Sea Preserve. An interpretive guide will tell you about old Florida’s moss-laden trees, seasonal flowering shrubs and Native American lore, including how they used various plants for food, beverage and medicine. The event is free, but online registration is required.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER.
Is there a parking fee?
No.
Are there public restrooms?
Yes.
What should I wear?
Wear appropriate clothing for the outdoors. Dressing in layers and preparing for any weather is recommended. Closed-toe shoes, not flip-flops, are encouraged.
What should I bring?
A reusable water bottle (that can be filled up onsite), insect repellent (strongly recommended), sunscreen, and binoculars/cameras are suggested.
Are trails accessible for strollers?
The trails are not paved and have loose sand. Only strollers with big rugged, all-terrain wheels are recommended.
Can I bring my dog?
Family pets/dogs cannot join the educational hikes, as they may distract participants and disrupt native wildlife.
Is there anything else to see afterward?
Visit the beautiful beach across the street. Heading further south, you’ll find Washington Oaks Gardens State Park. (CLICK HERE to learn more.)

ESTUSCARY: HAUNTED TRAIL NIGHT 1
2025-10-24 19:00 - 21:30 UTC | Guana South Beach Access Parking Lot, 1798 Ponte Vedra Blvd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, 32082, United States
Get ready for a spine-chilling adventure at Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve’s (GTM Research Reserve) ESTUSCARY Haunted Trail filled with scares, surprises and fun (recommended for older children, teens and adults)! Dress in your favorite Halloween costume —scary, silly or sweet! Take a stroll through decorated trunks and collect plenty of candy! Take a hayride and enjoy the scenery!
Closed-toe shoes recommended. The event will take place at the South Beach Access Parking Lot, 2200 S. Ponte Vedra Blvd. (A1A) in Ponte Vedra Beach. Parking is available at the lot.
Online registration is $15 and $20 cash at the entrance.
REGISTRATION FOR HAUNTED TRAIL NIGHT 1!

Monthly Beach Cleanup
2025-10-25 09:00 - 11:00, 2025-11-22 09:00 - 11:00 UTC | GTM Research Reserve, 505 Guana River Rd., Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, 32082, United States
Meet at the Visitor Center for a brief orientation and instructions at 9 a.m. where gloves and trash bags will be provided. You will be directed to a specific beach for cleanup. Hat, insect repellent, water and sunscreen are recommended. No signup is required.

ESTUSCARY: HAUNTED TRAIL NIGHT 2
2025-10-25 19:00 - 21:30 UTC | Guana South Beach Access Parking Lot, 1798 Ponte Vedra Blvd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, 32082, United States
Get ready for a spine-chilling adventure at Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve’s (GTM Research Reserve) ESTUSCARY Haunted Trail filled with scares, surprises and fun (recommended for older children, teens and adults)! Dress in your favorite Halloween costume —scary, silly or sweet! Take a stroll through decorated trunks and collect plenty of candy! Take a hayride and enjoy the scenery!
Closed-toe shoes recommended. The event will take place at the South Beach Access Parking Lot, 2200 S. Ponte Vedra Blvd. (A1A) in Ponte Vedra Beach. Parking is available at the lot.
Online registration is $15 and $20 cash at the entrance.
REGISTRATION FOR HAUNTED TRAIL NIGHT 2!

ESTUSCARY: Trunk or Treat (for smaller children)
2025-10-26 13:00 - 15:00 UTC | Guana South Beach Access Parking Lot, 1798 Ponte Vedra Blvd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, 32082, United States
Now it’s time for the little ones to have their turn with ESTUSCARY Truck or Treat! This afternoon event is designed especially for 8-year-olds and under (or anyone who prefers a not-so-scary Halloween!) at Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve (GTM Research Reserve). Dress in your favorite Halloween costume —scary, silly or sweet! Walk through the Haunted Trail in daylight (no scary actors, just fun for the little ones). Take a stroll through decorated trunks and collect plenty of candy! Take a hayride and enjoy the scenery! This event is a safe, family-friendly way to celebrate Halloween with the GTM community.
Closed-toe shoes recommended. The event will take place at the South Beach Access Parking Lot, 2200 S. Ponte Vedra Blvd. (A1A) in Ponte Vedra Beach. Parking is available at the lot.
Online registration is $10 and $20 cash at the entrance.
REGISTRATION FOR ESTUSCARY TRUNK OR TREAT!

Guided Exploration Hike
2025-11-01 09:00 - 11:00 (America/New_York) | Guana Trailhead, 505 Guana River Road, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, 32082, United States
Visitors learn about the Guana Peninsula’s natural biodiversity, expansive cultural history, vital estuarine resources, and current efforts to protect these resources. Meet at the GTM Research Reserve’s Trailhead Pavilion located west of the Guana Dam. Wear comfortable closed-toe shoes. There is a $3 per vehicle parking fee.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER.
Do I need a reservation to attend the hike?
Yes, register online by following the links provided above.
If I can’t make it, how do I cancel my reservation?
When you register, you receive an email confirmation with information about canceling.
What should I wear?
Appropriate clothing for the outdoors is recommended. Dress in layers and prepare for any type of weather. Closed-toe shoes are encouraged but not required. Hats protect your skin from the sun, along with sunscreen. Bug spray is also suggested.
What should I bring?

A reusable water bottle (that can be filled up onsite), insect repellent (strongly recommended), sunscreen, and binoculars/camera are suggested.

Where should I meet my guide?

CLICK HERE for a Google Map. Your guide will be waiting at the Trailhead Pavilion around 8:50 a.m. The hike begins at 9 a.m.

Are there any fees?

Only a $3/vehicle fee for parking (paid at arrival). Only cash is accepted.

How long is the hike?

The hike is less than 2.2 miles round trip and follows the Yellow Trail (CLICK HERE for a Trail Map), and takes less than 2.0 hours.

Are trails accessible for strollers?

The trails are not paved and have loose sand. Only strollers with big, rugged wheels are recommended.

Is there anything else to see afterward?
If you like, have lunch at the Trailhead Pavilion. Then, try out one of the other trails. Enjoy the Dam area, where visitors fish, and rent kayaks or paddleboards. Head to one of the three beach lots or hang out in the Visitor Center to learn more about the reserve’s natural surroundings.

Nature Journaling
2025-11-06 09:50 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | GTM Research Reserve, 505 Guana River Rd., Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, 32082, United States
On the first Thursday of every month, join nature journaling instructor Elaine Bergstrom at GTM Research Reserve to explore the wonders at the reserve. Each month focuses on a different topic using words, pictures, and numbers to learn more about what we observe. Meet at the Visitor Center lobby.
Please CLICK HERE to reserve a spot online for nature journaling.

Frequently asked questions:
What should I wear?

Please wear clothing that is appropriate for the outdoors. It’s recommended to dress in layers and prepare for any weather.

Can I bring my dog?

Not during the Nature Journaling event. Otherwise, dogs are permitted on GTM trails and beaches if they are on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Please remember that all dogs must remain on a leash, and the owner must promptly clean all waste. Please be mindful of other visitors when bringing a dog.

What should I bring?

Please bring a reusable water bottle, hat, insect repellent, sunscreen (strongly recommended), and binoculars.

Where should I meet my guide?

Meet at the Visitor Center.

If I run late, where do I find the group?

The Visitor Center staff can direct you to the group’s location upon your arrival.

What will I learn from this?

Each month focuses on a different topic using words, pictures, and numbers to learn more about what we observe.

Are there any fees?

There is a $3 fee per vehicle. Park, scan QR code (premiumparking.com) or text the lot number and follow directions.

Is there anything else to see afterward?

There are 6 hiking trails that you can explore at the GTM Trailhead Pavilion. GTM’s Visitor Center is also open from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. Enjoy the beach and collect shells, swim in the ocean, or lay in the sun – have a family day! A $3 parking pass is required for parking at the Trailhead and GTM beach accesses.

Wildlife Track & Sign Lecture with Marcus Reynerson
2025-11-07 16:00 - 17:30 UTC | GTM Research Reserve, 505 Guana River Rd., Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, 32082, United States
An Introduction to Reading the Language of the Land
Every time we step outside, we step into a world filled with stories—subtle signs of life that reveal the movement and behavior of wildlife all around us. One of the oldest human skills is the ability to interpret these signs. In this evening lecture, you’ll discover how tracking offers a powerful ecological lens for reading the living landscape.
Join professional naturalist and CyberTracker evaluator Marcus Reynerson for a dynamic 90-minute presentation and Q&A as he explores:

Basic wildlife foot physiology and morphology
The natural history of landscapes
Clear print identification
Concepts in behavior and wildlife sign interpretation
How wildlife interacts with terrain
The art of inquiry, questioning and nurturing curiosity

Whether you’re a naturalist, educator, biologist or nature enthusiast, this lecture will inspire you to look at the world in a new way—through the eyes of a tracker.
Lecture: The Fundamentals of Wildlife Tracking with Marcus Reynerson
Friday, Nov. 7, 2025, 4-5:30 p.m.
$25 Friends Members; $75 Non-Members
Free with Certification Registration
(Register HERE for Wildlife Track & Sign Certification Course)
REGISTER HERE FOR LECTURE ONLY!

Wildlife Track & Sign Certification
2025-11-08 08:00 - 17:00 UTC | GTM Research Reserve, 505 Guana River Rd., Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, 32082, United States
COURSE OVERVIEW
Whether you’re an experienced biologist or a curious naturalist, this two-day field certification blends assessment and deep learning in wildlife tracking. The CyberTracker Track & Sign Evaluation is an internationally recognized, professional-level certification system that hones your ability to identify, interpret and understand wildlife tracks and signs—while fostering a powerful connection with the land.
This unique experience is equal parts test and immersive workshop. You’ll be challenged to interpret a variety of wildlife signs—then receive immediate feedback in an engaging, group-learning format. Evaluators emphasize learning over scoring, and no prior tracking experience is necessary.
Whether you’re a naturalist, educator, biologist or nature enthusiast, this lecture will inspire you to look at the world in a new way—through the eyes of a tracker.
WILDLIFE TRACK & SIGN CERTIFICATION
Saturday-Sunday, Nov. 8-9, 2025, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. each day
REGISTER HERE!

Family Seining
2025-11-08 09:00 - 11:00, 2025-12-13 09:00 - 11:00, 2026-01-10 09:00 - 11:00 (America/New_York) | Guana Dam, 505 Guana River Road, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, 32082, United States
Join GTM Research Reserve on the second Saturday of each month for a guided family seining activity. Pull a seine net through Guana Lake, collecting species of fish, crabs, and other habitats. Learn about the animals and their roles. All necessary gear including waders and boots will be provided.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER.
Do I need a reservation to attend?

Yes, register online by following the links provided above.

If I can’t make it, how do I cancel my reservation?

When you register, you receive an email confirmation with information about canceling.

How old does my child need to be to attend?

There is no age limit, but your child must be at least three feet tall to hold the seine net.

What should I wear?

Appropriate clothing for the outdoors is recommended. Dress in layers and prepare for any type of weather. Closed-toe shoes are encouraged and wearing flip-flops is discouraged. We provide booties and waders, but you can bring your own gear.

What should I bring?

A reusable water bottle (that can be filled up onsite), insect repellent (strongly recommended), sunscreen, and binoculars/cameras are suggested.

Can I bring my dog?

Yes, but keep in mind that all dogs must remain on a leash, and all waste must be promptly cleaned by the owner. To be part of the seining activity, two hands are needed. Please be mindful of other visitors when bringing a dog.

Where should I meet my guide?

CLICK HERE for a Google Map. Your guide will be waiting at Guana Dam, 15 minutes prior to the scheduled program. The event begins at 9 am.

What will I catch?

The seine nets catch various types of fish, crab, shrimp, shells, and plant life.

Are there any fees?

Only a $3/vehicle fee for parking. Park, scan QR code (premiumparking.com) or text the lot number and follow directions.

Is there anything else to see afterward?

Have lunch at the Trailhead Pavilion and explore one of the many trails. You will also have access to the beaches at the South, Middle, and North access lots (for which your parking tag will apply for same-day use, might as well get your $3 worth). Tour the Visitor Center free of admission. It is open Tuesday- Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Beach Exploration
2025-11-15 09:00 - 11:00 (America/New_York) | GTM Research Reserve, 505 Guana River Rd., Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, 32082, United States
Join GTM Research Reserve docents for a beach walk. Learn about the animals that call the beach their home, plus discover seashells and other interesting facts. This is a “Beaches 101” experience the entire family will enjoy. The hike begins at the Visitor Center where you learn about the different habitats on GTM’s beautiful seashore. Afterward, the group heads to the beach for a salty adventure. Parking is in front of the Visitor Center.
The Visitor Center address: 505 Guana River Road, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082.
Please CLICK HERE to reserve a spot online for the Beach Exploration.
Do I need a reservation to attend?

Yes, register online by following the links provided above.

If I can’t make it, how do I cancel my reservation?

When you register, you receive an email confirmation with information about canceling.

What should I wear?

Appropriate clothing for the outdoors is recommended. Dress in layers and prepare for any type of weather. Closed-toe shoes are encouraged but not required. Hats protect your skin from the sun, along with sunscreen. Bug spray is also suggested.

What should I bring?

A reusable water bottle (that can be filled up onsite), insect repellent (strongly recommended), sunscreen, and binoculars/camera are suggested.

Where should I meet my guide?

CLICK HERE for a Google Map. Your guide will be waiting at the GTM Visitor Center, 15 minutes prior to the scheduled hike.

How long is the walk?

The walk is about half a mile, round trip. The hike leaders guide everyone ~0.25 miles, one way. You can continue or turn around if necessary. At any point during the hike, visitors can take swim breaks in the beautiful ocean.

What will I learn?

The GTM Research Reserve interpretive guide discusses where the restless sand comes from, where it’s going and its refusal to stay put. Ask why the sand is fine or coarse and how it got its color. Learn about coquina rocks, dune flowers, sea birds, shells, and the humble gopher tortoise that digs deep burrows and comes out to dine on prickly pears along the dunes.

How old does my child need to be to attend? Can I push a stroller?

There are no age restrictions for this hike, but the Florida heat can be uncomfortable for small children. You can push a stroller; however, we strongly recommend strollers with large beach-capable wheels.

I have a bad back. Can I still participate in this hike?

The hike is a moderately paced with soft sand terrain. Join the hike if you feel comfortable walking through beach sand for about half of a mile.

Is there anything else to see afterward?

If you like, stay at the beach longer and collect shells, swim in the ocean, or lie in the sun. You can purchase a $3 parking pass to enjoy the Dam area, where visitors fish, rent kayaks or paddle-boards. Hike one of the beautiful trails, head to one of the three beach lots or hang out in the Visitor Center to learn more about the reserve’s natural surroundings.

Marineland River to Sea Preserve Trail Walk
2025-11-19 09:00 - 11:00, 2025-12-10 09:00 - 11:00, 2026-01-14 09:00 - 11:00 UTC | River to Sea Preserve, 9805 N Ocean Shore Blvd,, Palm Coast, FL, 32137, United States
The GTM Research Reserve offers you an opportunity to follow the wooded trail to the Matanzas River at the River-to-Sea Preserve. An interpretive guide will tell you about old Florida’s moss-laden trees, seasonal flowering shrubs, and Native American lore, including how they used various plants for food, beverage, and medicine. The event is free, but online registration is required.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER.
Is there a parking fee?
No.
Are there public restrooms?
Yes.
What should I wear?
Wear appropriate clothing for the outdoors. Dressing in layers and preparing for any weather is recommended. Closed-toe shoes, not flip-flops, are encouraged.
What should I bring?
A reusable water bottle (that can be filled up onsite), insect repellent (strongly recommended), sunscreen, and binoculars/cameras are suggested.
Are trails accessible for strollers?
The trails are not paved and have loose sand. Only strollers with big rugged, all-terrain wheels are recommended.
Can I bring my dog?
Family pets/dogs cannot join the educational hikes, as they may distract participants and disrupt native wildlife.
Is there anything else to see afterward?
Visit the beautiful beach across the street. Heading further south, you’ll find Washington Oaks Gardens State Park. (CLICK HERE to learn more.)

Nature Journaling
2025-12-04 09:50 - 12:00, 2026-01-08 09:50 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | GTM Research Reserve, 505 Guana River Rd., Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, 32082, United States
On the first Thursday of every month (except July), join nature journaling instructor Elaine Bergstrom at GTM Research Reserve to explore the wonders at the reserve. Each month focuses on a different topic using words, pictures, and numbers to learn more about what we observe. Meet at the Visitor Center lobby.
CLICK HERE to reserve a spot online.
Frequently asked questions:
What should I wear?

Please wear clothing that is appropriate for the outdoors. It’s recommended to dress in layers and prepare for any weather.

Can I bring my dog?

Not during the Nature Journaling event. Otherwise, dogs are permitted on GTM trails and beaches if they are on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Please remember that all dogs must remain on a leash, and the owner must promptly clean all waste. Please be mindful of other visitors when bringing a dog.

What should I bring?

Please bring a reusable water bottle, hat, insect repellent, sunscreen (strongly recommended), and binoculars.

Where should I meet my guide?

Visitor Center.

If I run late, where do I find the group?

The Visitor Center staff will be able to direct you to the group’s location upon your arrival.

What will I learn from this?

Each month focuses on a different topic using words, pictures, and numbers to learn more about what we observe.

Are there any fees?

There is a $3 fee per vehicle. Park, scan QR code (premiumparking.com) or text the lot number and follow directions.

Is there anything else to see afterward?

There are 6 hiking trails that you can explore at the GTM Trailhead Pavilion. GTM’s Visitor Center is also open from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. Enjoy the beach and collect shells, swim in the ocean, or lay in the sun – have a family day! A $3 parking pass is required for parking at the Trailhead, dam, and GTM beach accesses.

Guided Exploration Hike
2025-12-06 09:00 - 11:00, 2026-01-03 09:00 - 11:00 (America/New_York) | Guana Trailhead, 505 Guana River Road, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, 32082, United States
Visitors learn about the Guana Peninsula’s natural biodiversity, expansive cultural history, vital estuarine resources, and current efforts to protect these resources. Meet at the GTM Research Reserve’s Trailhead Pavilion located west of the Guana Dam. Wear comfortable closed-toe shoes. There is a $3 per vehicle parking fee.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER.
Do I need a reservation to attend the hike?
Yes, register online by following the links provided above.
If I can’t make it, how do I cancel my reservation?
When you register, you receive an email confirmation with information about canceling.
What should I wear?
Appropriate clothing for the outdoors is recommended. Dress in layers and prepare for any type of weather. Closed-toe shoes are encouraged but not required. Hats protect your skin from the sun, along with sunscreen. Bug spray is also suggested.
What should I bring?

A reusable water bottle (that can be filled up onsite), insect repellent (strongly recommended), sunscreen, and binoculars/camera are suggested.

Where should I meet my guide?

CLICK HERE for a Google Map. Your guide will be waiting at the Trailhead Pavilion around 8:50 a.m. The hike begins at 9 a.m.

Are there any fees?

Only a $3/vehicle fee for parking. Park, scan QR code (premiumparking.com) or text the lot number and follow directions.

How long is the hike?

The hike is less than 2.2 miles round trip and follows the Yellow Trail (CLICK HERE for a Trail Map), and takes less than 2.0 hours.

Are trails accessible for strollers?

The trails are not paved and have loose sand. Only strollers with big, rugged wheels are recommended.

Is there anything else to see afterward?
If you like, have lunch at the Trailhead Pavilion. Then, try out one of the other trails. Enjoy the Dam area, where visitors fish, and rent kayaks or paddleboards. Head to one of the three beach lots or hang out in the Visitor Center to learn more about the reserve’s natural surroundings.

Beach Exploration
2025-12-20 09:00 - 11:00, 2026-01-17 09:00 - 11:00 (America/New_York) | GTM Research Reserve, 505 Guana River Rd., Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, 32082, United States
Join GTM Research Reserve docents for a beach walk. Learn about the animals that call the beach their home, plus discover seashells and other interesting facts. This is a “Beaches 101” experience the entire family will enjoy. The hike begins at the Visitor Center where you learn about the different habitats on GTM’s beautiful seashore. Afterward, the group heads to the beach for a salty adventure. Parking is in front of the Visitor Center; there is no parking fee.
The Visitor Center address: 505 Guana River Road, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082.
Please CLICK HERE to reserve a spot online for the Beach Exploration.
Do I need a reservation to attend?

Yes, register online by following the links provided above.

If I can’t make it, how do I cancel my reservation?

When you register, you receive an email confirmation with information about canceling.

What should I wear?

Appropriate clothing for the outdoors is recommended. Dress in layers and prepare for any type of weather. Closed-toe shoes are encouraged but not required. Hats protect your skin from the sun, along with sunscreen. Bug spray is also suggested.

What should I bring?

A reusable water bottle (that can be filled up onsite), insect repellent (strongly recommended), sunscreen, and binoculars/camera are suggested.

Where should I meet my guide?

CLICK HERE for a Google Map. Your guide will be waiting at the GTM Visitor Center, 15 minutes prior to the scheduled hike.

How long is the walk?

The walk is about half a mile, round trip. The hike leaders guide everyone ~0.25 miles, one way. You can continue or turn around if necessary. At any point during the hike, visitors can take swim breaks in the beautiful ocean.

What will I learn?

The GTM Research Reserve interpretive guide discusses where the restless sand comes from, where it’s going and its refusal to stay put. Ask why the sand is fine or coarse and how it got its color. Learn about coquina rocks, dune flowers, sea birds, shells, and the humble gopher tortoise that digs deep burrows and comes out to dine on prickly pears along the dunes.

How old does my child need to be to attend? Can I push a stroller?

There are no age restrictions for this hike, but the Florida heat can be uncomfortable for small children. You can push a stroller; however, we strongly recommend strollers with large beach-capable wheels.

I have a bad back. Can I still participate in this hike?

The hike is a moderately paced with soft sand terrain. Join the hike if you feel comfortable walking through beach sand for about half of a mile.

Is there anything else to see afterward?

If you like, stay at the beach longer and collect shells, swim in the ocean, or lie in the sun. You can purchase a $3 parking pass to enjoy the Dam area, where visitors fish, rent kayaks or paddle-boards. Hike one of the beautiful trails, head to one of the three beach lots or hang out in the Visitor Center to learn more about the reserve’s natural surroundings.

GTM Monthly Beach Cleanup
2025-12-27 09:00 - 11:00 (America/New_York) | GTM Research Reserve, 505 Guana River Rd., Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, 32082, United States
Meet at the Visitor Center for a brief orientation and instructions at 9:00 a.m. where gloves and trash bags will be provided. You will be directed to a specific beach for cleanup. Hat, insect repellent, water and sunscreen are recommended. No signup is required.

Introduction to Nature Journaling with Watercolors
2026-01-15 09:50 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | GTM Research Reserve, 505 Guana River Rd., Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, 32082, United States
If you are new to nature journaling, you will be guided through this introductory class by instructor Elaine Bergstrom, using watercolors. Each month focuses on a different topic with words, pictures, and numbers to learn more about what we observe. Meet at the Visitor Center lobby.
CLICK HERE to reserve a spot online.
Frequently asked questions:
What should I wear?

Please wear clothing that is appropriate for the outdoors. It’s recommended to dress in layers and prepare for any weather.

Can I bring my dog?

Not during the Nature Journaling event. Otherwise, dogs are permitted on GTM trails and beaches if they are on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Please remember that all dogs must remain on a leash, and the owner must promptly clean all waste. Please be mindful of other visitors when bringing a dog.

What should I bring?

Please bring a reusable water bottle, hat, insect repellent, sunscreen (strongly recommended), and binoculars.

Where should I meet my guide?

Visitor Center.

If I run late, where do I find the group?

The Visitor Center staff will be able to direct you to the group’s location upon your arrival.

What will I learn from this?

Each month focuses on a different topic using words, pictures, and numbers to learn more about what we observe.

Are there any fees?

There is a $3 fee per vehicle. Park, scan QR code (premiumparking.com) or text the lot number and follow directions.

Is there anything else to see afterward?

There are 6 hiking trails that you can explore at the GTM Trailhead Pavilion. GTM’s Visitor Center is also open from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. Enjoy the beach and collect shells, swim in the ocean, or lay in the sun – have a family day! A $3 parking pass is required for parking at the Trailhead, dam, and GTM beach accesses.
