The Martin County paddling trails system spans 37.7 miles across two major waterways - the Indian River Lagoon and St. Lucie River. The Indian River Lagoon section runs 16.2 miles between Jensen Beach and Hobe Sound, with 8 public launch/stopover sites available. A 2.6-mile trail spur provides access through St. Lucie Inlet State Park.

The St. Lucie River portion extends 21.5 miles from Atlantic Ridge State Park/Halpatiokee area to the Indian River Lagoon and St. Lucie Inlet, featuring 13 public launch or stopover sites. An additional 3.6-mile spur trail connects Atlantic Ridge and Halpatiokee Preserve.

Paddlers can observe diverse wildlife including herons, egrets, osprey, turtles and fish while navigating through mangrove-lined waterways. The lagoon section falls within the Indian River Lagoon Aquatic Preserve, offering pristine natural conditions. St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park provides a unique paddling destination, with access to an undeveloped barrier island only reachable by water.

The trail system is actively managed by Martin County's Ecosystem Restoration and Management Division in partnership with local volunteer groups like the 27-80 Paddling Club, who help monitor conditions and maintain access points. All waterways are sovereign public lands owned by the Florida Board of Trustees.

Several outfitters provide rentals and guided experiences, including South River Outfitters in Stuart, Beach Water Sports on Hutchinson Island, and Jonathan Dickinson State Park in Hobe Sound. The calm lagoon waters near Port Salerno offer ideal conditions for beginners to learn paddling basics.

For trip planning, amenities and launch site details are available through the Martin County Blueway Paddling Trails Map. Paddlers should practice "leave no trace" principles and be prepared for encounters with various wildlife in this diverse aquatic ecosystem.