Monday, Jan. 14, 2008

Oodles of outdoor activities in our community

HORSEBACK RIDING

Wishful Thinkin' Farms Horseback Riding: 5815 Juel Gill Road, Myakka City

Nature trail horseback riding on more than 100 acres of woodlands and open pasture. Observe numerous species of Florida's vegetation and wildlife far away from roadways and houses. Pet farm animals, including baby horses. You are welcome to bring food and beverages to picnic. Day riding for all ages and skill levels; moonlight riding for teens and adults. Access from State Road 70 or State Road 64. Cost: $20 a person per hour. Open Friday-Sunday or by appointment; reservations required. Information and reservations: 322-1074.

NATURE TOURS

Emerson Point Preserve Nature Tours: Emerson Point Preserve, Snead Island, 17th St., Palmetto

Master Gardeners will conduct free tours at 9 a.m. on at least one Saturday and one Sunday each month. Tours are limited to 12 people and reservations must be made through the Master Gardener office. A portion of the tour is handicap accessible. The office is open 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday. Information: 722-4524.

Sarasota Bay Explorers: 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Mote Aquarium on City Island, Sarasota

Now offering a new eco-tour, Nature Safari, with in-depth looks into the ecosystems of southwest Florida. View birds' nests and watch for creatures of the bay. Observe bottlenose dolphins, manatees and sea turtles up close. Cruises run daily at 11 a.m., 1:30 and 4 p.m. Regular tour rate is $26 adults, $22 children ages 4-12. Aquarium admission not included. Information: 388-4200.

Walk on the Wild Side

Eco-Tours: 629 41st St., Sarasota

Guided canoeing, kayaking, hiking and wildlife viewing tours throughout west central Florida. Half-day, full-day, moonlight and overnight trips. All equipment and transportation is provided and instruction is available. Tours start at $30 per person and are available 6 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Sunday. Information: 351-6500.

SEGWAY TOURS

Manatee Segway Tours: Downtown Bradenton

Manatee Segway Tours takes visitors on a two-hour trip on the riverfront in downtown Bradenton. Snack and drink provided along with plenty of photo opportunities. The two-hour tour is $55 and includes training and helmets. For more information or to get on the waiting list, visit www.manateesegwaytours.com or call 224-8079.

Florida Ever-Glides: The Ritz Carlton, 1111 Ritz-Carlton Drive, Sarasota

Segway Tours of downtown Sarasota and through St. Armands Circle are offered by Florida Ever-Glides Inc. A Segway, the world's first and only self-balancing electric transport system, allows riders to go anywhere you can walk and easily navigates most areas, including paved surfaces, dirt roads, grass and inclines. The three-hour guided tours are $85 per person and is limited to six riders to ensure an interactive and personalized experience. Tours are offered daily 9 a.m.-noon and 1-4 p.m. Ages 12 and up are welcome. Reservations are required. Information: 363-9556 or visit www.floridaever-glides.com.