Sarasota's beauty is more than sand deep

If you're able to look beyond the beaches and waterways, beyond the restaurants and bars, beyond the activities and attractions that Sarasota has to offer, you'll find that this area has some one the most extensive collections of parks and protected lands in the state. Whether you're a hiker, birdwatcher, or just want a relaxing walk through the woods, Sarasota has plenty of opportunities to experience the grandeur of natural Florida.

Start with the huge Myakka River State Park, 57-square miles of wetlands, woodlands and prairie that make up one of the oldest and largest parks in the state. The park's main roads follow the Myakka River, providing ample opportunity for casual visitors to enjoy the scenic views and natural beauty of Sarasota without ever getting out of the car. Leave the air conditioning, however, and you'll see alligators basking on the river's shores, armadillos and foxes scattering among the trees and red-tail hawks circling for prey, without ever needing to hike a mile.

Serious explorers, however, can hike or bike the hundreds of miles of trails that wind through the vast expanse of Myakka State Park, with primitive camp sites along the way if you plan to make a weekend of it. There's also camping with more amenities -- including showers and electricity -- closer to the roads, as well as private rental cabins complete with beds and kitchens.

Sarasota County also controls a bounty of local park land, including the 11-mile long Legacy Trail that stretches along an unused railway from south Sarasota all the way into Venice. There are trailheads along the way if you're looking for a short walk, or you can take advantage of the paved trail to bike or rollerblade the entire distance.

Paddlers can see a side of Sarasota rarely glimpsed, even by locals, by paddling the dozens of kayak and canoe trails that wind throughout the area along beaches, canals and the intracoastal waterway.

For a guided tour of the great outdoors, head to the Crowley Museum and Nature Center. Walk through an early Florida settlement complete with historic buildings and preserved tools, before heading into Crowley's well-heeled trails through the Florida brush. Workers on-site will give you spotting guides for the area wildlife and tell you where to stop for the best chance of catching a glimpse of your favorite animal.

After all, Sarasota's natural beauty doesn't stop at the bridges.