Gator Boardwalk — Attraction in Daphne

PSA DON'T FEED THE GATORS. A fed gator is a dead gator. Just because they like marshmallows doesn't mean you should give them marshmallows. Getting too familiar with humans and expecting sweets from us means a gator has to be moved away from humans or euthanized. Don't put you short-term enjoyment over the safety of these beautiful creatures

Actual review It's pretty awful. I thought people were exaggerating when they said it's surrounded by highways, but no. There's literally highways to the left, to the right, and above the boardwalk. It's so loud that it's irritating. On the bottom of the highway going over the boardwalk are a GRATUITOUS amount of dirt dobber nests. I don't see why they'd have a gator boardwalk in a place where few people (according to reviews) sees gators. There was some other wildlife around though. Saw a few species of birds and a couple brightly colored dragonflies. There's also a sign on the boardwalk that says no loitering?? I find this bizarre as that's basically all you can do on this trail. Loiter around, hope for a gator to pop up, and curse humanity for constantly building over habitats. Update Apparently the sign is for the highway that's 4 feet away from...

The boardwalk is an easy 5 minutes walk north of the parking lot. It is underneath the highway, and there'll be bird droppings. Walk past the highway, the boardwalk forks out left to a trail on far side of the pond (motel side), and the trail on the right (near) side of the pond continues north.

I went after 4pm, not busy at all. I stayed over an hour and didn't spot an alligator. Then I cross the street (N Main street) to the other (smaller) side of the pond and voilà! One gator just chilling in the shade and it certainly made my day.

I consider myself lucky to see a gator so it's definitely 5. If I didn't see one - my only goal - the boardwalk itself is 3 as it is rather short. I can't comment on the trails as I just stayed around the pond the whole time. If you go for gators, remember to check the other pond...

My opinion on this spot may be biased as I live very close to this location. Gator Boardwalk or Gator Alley is a popular spot for strolls to read about the restoration projects in the area and the history of the location. However, there is very little upkeep of the boardwalk itself. The city replaces the boards of the bridges consistently, but does not seem to do any maintenance that could strengthen or extend the life (or safety) of the wood. There is some noticeable vandalism and graffiti under the overpasses that should be covered up and the seating areas are lacking. While walking my dog along this path, I sincerely wished a drinking fountain or waste disposal was available at one of the rest stops as this trail is a long one leading up towards Spanish Fort. Dog feces is a common find, as is...