As you drive south along A1A, it’s easy to spot a variety of beautiful beaches and trails along the highway.
One of the oldest and perhaps most unique trails could easily be missed. Partly tucked among the trees just south of Sebastian Inlet is Jungle Trail, a nearly eight-mile dirt road near Pelican Island Wildlife Refuge.
Originally built in the 1920s, the trail was created for local citrus growers so they could easily move their produce along the barrier island. It passes near houses and a golf course, though most of it is through woods.
Richard Jones played a major role in cultivating this route. In the late 1800s, Jones’ father built their small home on the family property by the Indian River. Eventually, Jungle Trail ran through what was Jones’ property.
Jones was a farmer known for operating a fruit stand. He eventually opened a small pier near his home and the trail. People then began mooring their boats, fishing and transporting goods from the mainland to the barrier island.
Today, visitors can step back into local history as they take their own journey along the dirt road. Whether choosing to bike, hike or drive (slowly), there is much to see and experience along the way. The Jones’ house, now known as the Jones’ Pier Conservation Area, is open to the public from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. each Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.
Located closer to A1A along the Jungle Trail, visitors can also check out the Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge. A beautiful spot for time in nature and observing wildlife, it also has a few scenic trails ranging from less than a mile to a three-mile loop.
Local resident Bridget Burke has biked and hiked the Jungle Trail many times through the years.
“Hiking allows you to notice the smaller details — the quiet movement of wildlife, the texture of the old canopy overhead and the stillness of the lagoon nearby. While biking gives you a greater sense of the trail’s length and rhythm,” Burke said. “The Jungle Trail (is) one of the most peaceful and naturally beautiful places. There’s a sense of calm there that feels increasingly rare. … It’s one of those places that leaves a distinct impression because it feels connected to an older, quieter side of Vero Beach.”