Tarpon Bay Explorers is pleased to report that their bike rentals and Tram Tours will now
be able to return as options to explore Wildlife Drive. Wildlife Drive experienced significant
damage during Hurricane Milton and was subject to an extended closure. As a result, the
Explorers’ Tram Tours along with their bike rentals were not able to venture down Wildlife Drive
until repairs were complete.
Tarpon Bay Explorers is the concession to the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife
Refuge meaning that the company is the only operation that provides tours and rentals for the
Refuge. The Explorer crew has been waiting for the call about Wildlife Drive’s reopening so they
can provide ways to explore the drive by bike rental or an educational Tram Tour. Tram Tours
are a great way to educate visitors about “Ding” Darling and the wildlife that inhabits conserved
land like spoonbills, alligators and more in the company of a trained naturalist. Bikes are a great
option to casually stroll through Wildlife Drive taking time to search for wildlife or just to take in
the Refuge’s beauty. The concession is the closest bike rental company to the Refuge. The
concession’s bikes are the good ol’ fashioned single-speed beach cruisers for adults and
children. For smaller children their fleet contains ‘weehoo’s’, which are modified ‘Trail-A-Bikes’,
bike trailers and baby seats. All bike rentals are offered on a first come, first serve basis.
Reservations are recommended for Tram Tours.
“We’ve received a lot of phone calls asking about Wildlife Drive and Tram Tours. said
General Manager Adam Sauerland. “The island and its recovery are getting stronger and
stronger everyday. Though Helene and Milton were a couple steps back, having Wildlife Drive
reopen is a great step in the right direction especially with holidays right around the corner,”
explained Sauerland.
As of now, Tarpon Bay Explorers is open four days a week: Monday, Wednesday, Friday
& Saturday. Rentals begin at 8am, stop at 3pm and must return by 4:30pm. Please remember
that Wildlife Drive is always closed on Fridays. For any further inquiries on bike rentals or
general questions feel free to visit the Explorers’ website at www.tarponbayexplorers.com or call
their gift shop at 239-472-8900.