St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge & Lighthouse

Established in 1931 as a wintering home for migratory birds, the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge serves as the gateway to the Panhandle Section of the Great Florida Birding Trail, it is a popular spot for viewing more than 250 different species throughout the year. Waterfowl are commonly seen from mid-November through late December, shore birds are most common during late spring and early fall and songbirds arrive from their wintering areas in early spring (April). Multiple trails on the refuge are open to hikers, cyclists and horseback riders. The refuge includes 49.5 miles of the Florida National Scenic Trail.