The Gulf Coast Heritage Trail, for Manatee and Sarasota Counties, is an integrated trails network linking regional natural, cultural and historical resources, offering visitors and the community a chance to experience the true heritage and natural wonders of our area. The GCHT offers scenic vehicular auto tour routes, promotes special walking areas (nature trails), bicycling staging areas and wildlife viewing opportunities to the visitor and resident alike. 

The GCHT was established to protect and preserve the region’s magnificent natural and historical resources by encouraging stewardship, protection and appreciation of these fragile resources.  We hope you enjoy exploring paradise as you travel along the Gulf Coast Heritage Trail.

The GCHT was developed by Sarasota Bay Estuary Program in cooperation with Nation Park Service's Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance Program, Manatee and Sarasota counties, City of Sarasota and other local municipalities.

The Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan (CCMP) for Sarasota Bay was signed by the Governor in 1995 and included an element to improve managed access to Sarasota Bay and its resources. The Plan acknowledged the significant investment that the community will make in improving the Bay and the need to provide enhanced recreational opportunities given the investment. Since 1990, pollution to the Bay has been reduced by 47% with corresponding improvement in water quality and bottom habitat (sea grass) enhancing 2,000 acres of habitat. A series of unique environmental parks have been created around the Bay and twenty artificial reefs have or soon will be constructed. Storm water systems have been constructed with more planned, and sewers will soon be under construction in Sarasota County to further improve the environment. Sarasota Bay is much different than it was a decade ago. The community has invested heavily in preserving our beaches as well as creating a special place for visitors and residents alike.

Recognizing the special nature of this area, the CCMP specifically recommended the development of the Gulf Coast Heritage Trail. In this light, the Sarasota Bay Program received grants totaling about $200,000 to develop the Trail and a database of recreational opportunities around the region. The data collected through this initiative is extensive and includes site locations, maps and descriptions of this area’s unique resources.       

Maps of the Gulf Coast Heritage Trail can be picked up at your local tourist office, SBEP offices, hotel lobbies or downloaded from the Publications section of this website.

SBEP is reviewing, revising and updating the Gulf Coast Heritage Trail.  New maps, signs and website will be available towards the end of 2008.