Martha Wellman Park

What You'll Find Here

The heart of Martha Wellman Park is a lovely 3-acre pond that does double duty as a stormwater retention facility. It's not just practical (treating 70% of the surrounding area's runoff) but also pretty scenic. The pond attracts quite a bit of wildlife - keep your eyes peeled for egrets, herons, and ibises going about their day. Just a heads-up: alligators have been spotted here, so it's best to skip fishing or wading, no matter how tempting the water looks.

Wrapping around the pond is a multi-use trail that's fully paved and 10 feet wide. If you're looking to get some steps in, the 0.73-mile loop is well-suited for a quick workout or a leisurely stroll.

The asphalt-paved path works well for all sorts of activities - walking, jogging, or biking. Though fair warning: in recent years, some sections of the trail have seen better days with reported damage in spots.

Rest and Relief

Need a breather? The park features seven refuge areas with benches scattered along the trail where you can sit and take in the views.

The park is well-lit for those evening walks, which is great for safety and extending your outdoor time after sunset.

There's a portable restroom available when nature calls, but like most portable facilities, cleanliness can be hit or miss.

Bringing Your Four-Legged Friends

Your dogs are welcome to join you at Martha Wellman Park. You'll come across waste bag dispensers and trash cans throughout, making it easy to clean up after your furry companion.

The Overall Experience

Martha Wellman Park offers a quiet escape from the bustle of Tallahassee. While it's primarily designed for walking and running, there's plenty of open space for other activities if you're feeling creative.

What makes this park interesting is how it balances recreation with functionality - the pond isn't just pretty to look at, it's actually working hard to manage stormwater for the area.

If you're planning a picnic, note that while there are benches for sitting, you won't find picnic tables or designated eating areas here. Maybe pack a blanket instead if you're planning to snack.