The Banyan Tree Tunnels of Stuart & Hobe Sound are a must-see tourist destination on the Treasure Coast. The tunnels are a magical place that preserves the area’s history and natural beauty. Many people visit the tunnels for great photography locations or just a scenic drive.
However, it’s also possible to walk among the banyan trees. Visitors who want to walk should find a safe parking space and stay on sidewalks where possible. A walk through the trees is an excellent way to experience the grandeur of the Banyan Tree Tunnels. The iconic trees are a marvel, and visitors who experience the tunnel for themselves give it high ratings. Below is more information for exploring the Banyan Tree Tunnels of Stuart & Hobe Sound, Florida.
What are the Banyan Tree Tunnels Like?
The Banyan Tree Tunnels feature trees on either side of the road whose branches form a canopy, creating a tunnel of nature that filters the sunlight. The stunning tree branches are curved in such a way that those who pass through feel as if they are entering a different world. It’s best to enjoy the trees before sunset to get a clear view of the detailed leaves and branches.
People who visit the tunnel give the beautiful stretch of road raving reviews, as its something that can only be experienced here. The Banyan Tree Tunnels are also a photographer’s dream. It’s not uncommon for locals and tourists to visit the space for a quick photo opportunity. Engagement and wedding photographers regularly use the tunnels, and nature and wildlife enthusiasts can easily get a good shot on or near the road. The tunnels are a go-to spot for celebrating events or getting out to see the beauty that our ecosystem offers.
A Beloved Spot in Martin County
The Banyan Tree Tunnels, also called the Tunnel of Trees, are a cherished place. Locals make great efforts to protect the stretch of road. Years ago, when city workers trimmed some of the branches in the tunnel, residents voiced their discontent and concern. The Banyan Tree Tunnel is a favorite spot, and most Stuart locals want to preserve the iconic landmark.
The county protects the Tree Tunnel, and trimming or cutting the trees is not permitted. Many locals are very protective of the tunnel, as the road is dear to their hearts. It wasn’t the first time locals were concerned about the tunnels’ future. After an EF1 tornado ripped through Hobe Sound, touching down west of US Highway 1 and causing damage along Bridge Road before crossing the St. Lucie River, officials discovered the storm damaged 22 of the historic trees lining the scenic road. Locals quickly worked to restore the trees and road. For locals, saving the trees was a top priority, as the beautiful landmark means a lot to those who live in the area.
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The tunnel’s trees aren’t the only special banyans in Martin County. Another tree treasured by Stuart residents is the giant banyan on Osceola Street. It’s located near the river at the intersection of Florida Avenue. The banyan tree on Osceola is one of the oldest in the County and is believed to have been planted in the late 1920s.
Are Banyan Trees Native to Florida?
Despite its abundance in Florida, the banyan tree isn’t native to the area. Banyan trees come from India. Although the tree is technically an invasive species, it’s not considered problematic in Florida. The tree has become a natural part of the Treasure Coast’s beauty and flourishes throughout the region.
The Banyan tree is iconic and revered in Florida and worldwide. It’s known for its majestic canopies. The tree, which is native to India, began to spread across the states when prominent people gave them as gifts. The trees arrived in Florida in the 1800s when Thomas Edison planted the first banyan in the Sunshine State. The trees can only grow in the furthest parts of the state as they are not cold-tolerant.
The History of Banyan Tree Tunnels in Hobe Sound
The Hobe Sound banyan trees have roots and history that run deep. The trees were planted by the Reed family decades ago. Joseph and Permelia Reed were environmental icons passionate about preserving the area’s natural beauty. The couple moved to Jupiter Island in 1932 and immediately started working on conservation efforts. The Reeds planted the trees in the late 1930s. In the late 1940s and 1950s, more trees were added to the tunnels. Today, the trees are almost a hundred years old and have survived many devastating storms. Although some of the trees were damaged in hurricanes over the years, the city has always prioritized replanting the trees, so the tunnel remains a whimsical landmark in Stuart, Florida.
Most locals are familiar with the Reed family through the local wildlife refuge in Hobe Sound. The Nathanial P. Reed Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge was named after their son. Today, the refuge has the largest section of undeveloped beach in Southeast Florida and is one of the most productive sea turtle nesting areas in the country. The refuge is also a sanctuary for dozens of endangered and threatened species. The protected sanctuary is beautiful, unique, and inspiring for nature enthusiasts.
More Scenic Drives on the Treasure Coast
The Banyan Tree Tunnels of Hobe Sound and Stuart aren’t the only scenic drive tourists must see when visiting the Treasure Coast. Tourists should also check out the Martin Grade Scenic Highway. The stunning road is a step back in time, covered in stately oaks that arch above the road and create a canopy of beauty.
The Martin Grade Scenic Highway is a much longer drive than the banyan tree tunnels and stretches for twelve miles. The road ends in the Allapattah Flats Wildlife Management Area. The drive and wildlife area are a dream for nature lovers who enjoy stately oaks and native Florida birds.
Many tourists have a checklist of things they’d like to do when visiting the Treasure Coast. A scenic drive on the Martin Grade Scenic Highway or through the Banyan Tree Tunnels offers the perfect opportunity to see the area uniquely. It’s an easy way to appreciate the region’s natural beauty. It’s also free, offering a budget-friendly and wonderful experience in Martin County.
Where are the Banyan Tree Tunnels?
The Banyan Tree Tunnels are located in Hobe Sound on Bridge Road and Stuart on Saint Lucie Boulevard. The stretch of road where the tunnels exist is fairly short, and most people who go through the tunnel wish it were longer. To enhance the drive, locals and tourists recommend driving slowly with the windows down to enjoy the route. Many people also drive through the tunnel but turn around once or twice and drive through again to extend the experience.
Locals and tourists who want to see one of the prettiest stretches of road on the Treasure Coast should visit the Banyan Tree Tunnels in Stuart and Hobe Sound. Local officials have preserved the spot, which has remained mostly untouched over the years. The tree canopy provides a glimpse of the region’s historical geography and shows what Stuart and Hobe Sound looked like decades ago. People searching for a fantastic piece of nature will enjoy the Banyan Tree Tunnels of Stuart & Hobe Sound.
