Chapel Trail Nature Preserve

Rate this place

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Chapel Trail Nature Preserve is a beautiful natural area located in the state of Florida, covering over 450 acres.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

There are many reasons to visit this preserve, including its diverse habitats, hiking trails, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. Visitors can explore wetlands, pine rocklands, and hardwood hammocks, each with its unique flora and fauna. The preserve features a variety of trails for hiking and bicycling, ranging from easy to challenging, and some are also wheelchair accessible.

One of the most popular attractions at Chapel Trail Nature Preserve is the Butterfly Garden, which is home to many species of butterflies and plants. The preserve also has an outdoor amphitheater, picnic areas, and a boardwalk that leads to scenic views of the wetlands. Visitors may also be lucky enough to spot endangered species such as the eastern indigo snake and the gopher tortoise.

Interesting facts about the preserve include that it was once used as a cattle ranch and later as a dairy farm. The land was then donated to the city of Pembroke Pines for preservation purposes. Additionally, the preserve is home to over 120 bird species, making it a great spot for birdwatchers.

The best time of year to visit Chapel Trail Nature Preserve is during the winter months when the weather is mild. However, the preserve is open year-round, and visitors can enjoy different sights and sounds during each season. It is important to note that the preserve has limited hours of operation, so visitors should check the official website before planning a trip. Overall, Chapel Trail Nature Preserve is a must-visit destination in Florida for those who love nature and outdoor activities.

       

Weather Forecast

Park & Land Designation Reference

National Park
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
View more

Featured Parks