Exploring Bradenton

So sometime last month (or March possibly lol) we finally got out and explored a little more of Bradenton.  The first place we went is called DeSoto Memorial Park, named for the famed explorer (he's pretty big around here).  There are a few trails that wind throughout the park, shadowed by thick tree growth and bits of shells embedded in the paths. 

Once you park, the first thing you see is the areas in which they perform re-enactments of interactions between the explorers and the natives. (Sorry, forgot to take pictures of that.) Continue on and you'll see an inviting grassy area with this pictured monument and incredible trees (they fascinate me!).  Turn around at that awesome tree and you'll see this...

We quickly got started down trail, enjoying the view as we leisurely strolled.  (The water was to our left.)

We came across this wooden pathway and decided we were feeling adventurous. 

 

We met some new friends along the way.          And admired God's incredible handiwork

We found a tree growing in the middle of a tree!

The trail rounded and we came to open air at DeSoto Point, looking out over Manatee River.

Next, our explorations took us Robinson Preserve.  Note that these two places are pretty much right next to each other... for DeSoto Memorial go straight, for Robinson Preserve you turn left.

Robinson has camping grounds, fishing, and miles and miles of trails.  We didn't last long here as we didn't realize the size of the places and did not have enough water on us. Or sunscreen. So we walked for ten minutes and then turned around.