Stuart and Port Salerno have been designated as official Trail Towns by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s (FDEP) Office of Greenways and Trails. The two Martin County communities join a growing network of destinations recognized for their proximity to long-distance, non-motorized recreational trails and their ability to connect trail users with local amenities, businesses, natural areas, and unforgettable community experiences.
“Being recognized as a Florida Trail Town is a tremendous honor for Martin County and a reflection of what makes our community so special,” said Martin County Commissioner and Board Chair Sarah Heard. “Our trails do more than connect places–they bring people together, encourage residents and visitors to explore our natural surroundings, and create opportunities to experience the unique character and heritage of our communities. This designation is especially meaningful to me because one of the newly recognized Trail Towns is located in Port Salerno. I’m incredibly proud to see this community celebrated and to recognize the positive economic, recreational, and social benefits this designation brings to Martin County.”
Stuart was selected as a Trail Town because of its connections to several trail systems and its proximity to natural, cultural, and recreational amenities. The community is connected to the East Coast Greenway and Martin County Blueway Paddle Trail, while the Sailfish Healthy Trail and Stuart Riverwalk provide opportunities to explore the award-winning downtown district by foot or bicycle. Trail users can easily access local restaurants, shops, parks, public art, events, and other attractions throughout the community.
The designation of Port Salerno highlights its connection to the East Coast Greenway and St. Lucie Blueway Paddle Trail, as well as its waterfront businesses and rich maritime history. The community provides trail users with opportunities to discover local restaurants, fishing culture, nearby parks, protected natural areas, art installations, and more.
The Trail Town program was established by FDEP in 2018 to recognize communities with significant trail investments. These two new designations are the result of an extensive effort led by the Martin County Office of Tourism & Marketing’s Explore Natural Martin team, in collaboration with the Martin Metropolitan Planning Organization, Martin County Public Works Department, Martin County Parks and Recreation, City of Stuart, local businesses, and other valued community stakeholders. The Trail Town application process included an assessment of trail amenities, services, and infrastructure to demonstrate that trail users have access to the resources needed to comfortably explore and experience the community.
“We’re so proud to see Stuart and Port Salerno recognized as our Florida Trail Towns and to highlight the incredible connections between our trails, waterways, natural areas, and local communities,” said Nerissa Okiye, Martin County Tourism Director. “This designation is a reflection of the work that has already been done by our community partners and creates another opportunity to encourage visitors and residents to explore Martin County in new ways. It all dovetails seamlessly with VISIT FLORIDA's focus on showcasing the diverse trail programs across the Sunshine State.”
In addition to participating in quarterly meetings with other designated Trail Towns, the designation allows Stuart and Port Salerno to participate in FDEP program promotion efforts designed to boost tourism and may assist in pursuing state grants by demonstrating readiness for trail-oriented projects.
More information on FDEP’s Trail Town program is available at FloridaDEP.gov.
