Hollywood/Fort Lauderdale - Florida Paddling Trails Association

Florida Paddling Trails Association

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Hollywood/Fort Lauderdale

Even though this is a short urbanized segment along south Florida's Gold Coast, paddlers can enjoy several scenic state parks including Oleta River State Park, the the Ann Kolb Nature Center and the John U. Lloyd State Park.

Florida Cities: Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood

Contact: Contact our Region H Director or Trailkeeper for more information by clicking here Click Here

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1 Locations in Hollywood/Fort Lauderdale

Location	Rating	Views	Posts	Updated

Oleta River		1248	1	1/19/2011

This is Segment 17, Region H. Even though this is a short urbanized segment along south Florida's Gold Coast, paddlers can enjoy several scenic state parks.

Starting from Oleta River State Park, you'll have an opportunity to paddle either the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) or along Atlantic beaches. We recommend taking the Atlantic route only during good weather and light winds. Those trying the Atlantic will need to backtrack to Baker's Haulover Canal, then proceed north. The next opportunity to reenter the ICW is the busy entrance to Port Everglades.

For ICW paddlers, the first stop is Holland Park, seven miles north of Oleta. The park has picnic shelters and makes a fine lunch stop.

From Holland Park continue north to the Ann Kolb Nature Center (a must see!) and then on to the John U. Lloyd State Park. Bring a mask and snorkel as you'll find one of the easiest and most interesting shore dives in the area.

The final stop, and end of this segment is Hugh Taylor Birch State Park. Take special care when proceeding past Port Everglades, where gargantuan cruise ships and other boats dock.

16 miles of circumnavigational trail

Environmental Considerations

Given the narrow Intracoastal Waterway, lengthy stretches of seawalls and heavy boat traffic, this is a challenging segment and recommended for paddlers who have expertise in paddling over large and high energy wakes.
Boat traffic is higher on weekends and holidays
No camping exists along this segment
Paddlers should take special precautions in passing large ships moving and docking at Port Everglades
During favorable weather paddlers may opt to paddle along the Atlantic, with rest stops at area beaches

Primary Campsites & Distances Between