SUMMARY:

Riverbend Park, in northern Palm Beach County is a preserved historic site.  It was the setting in January 1838, of two battles during the Second Seminole War, and later saw the first attempts at homesteading in South Florida.  The plan is to hike approximately 3 to 4 miles on a combination of trails (Reese, Farmstead, Indian Camp, Riverbend) that will take us through the various restored sites, such as a pioneer farmstead, a Seminole village, wetlands, and scrub pine forests.  This should be an easy walk, with plenty of shaded areas.  However, there will be some open areas where the sun will shine through, so bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water.  There is a ranger guided tour of the Loxahatchee Battlefield at 10:00 a.m., and if there is desire, we will try to join that tour before doing our hike.  This may add another mile to our hike, but it might be worth it.  Afterwards, if we are hungry, we can all retire to the ever popular Guanabana's Restaurant/Bar in Jupiter, for refreshments.  Their Happy Hour (appetizers are half price) is from 3 to 6.

Driving directions to the location and spot to meet at:

From I-95, take exit 87B (the appropriately named Indiantown Road, or Rt. 706) west for approximately 1.6 miles.  The park entrance will be on your left, or south side of the road.  There is construction going on, as they are replacing the Visitor Center and parking lot with new facilities.  Follow the signs to the current designated parking lot (the old Overflow Lot).  We will meet by the information sign by the parking area.  I will probably be wearing a Red Sox baseball cap.