Clewiston offers a variety of outings: a long trail along the Herbert Hoover Dike, walks through residential areas, a museum covering a wide range of topics, and activities around Lake Okeechobee. When planning, you can choose between trail lengths, historical themes and seasonal programs.
Trails and Walking Tours
The Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail (LOST) is a 115-mile trail along the Herbert Hoover Dike. In 1993, it was designated as part of the Florida National Scenic Trail. Its length sets it apart from the Clewiston walking tours, which pass through residential areas and range from 1 to 2.9 miles long.
The four walking tours are marked on the sidewalks with different-colored arrows that correspond to the tour map. During your walk, you can match the arrow color to the map. This gives you a choice between a long dike trail and several shorter tours with stated distances.
Clewiston’s History at the Museum
The Clewiston Museum features prehistoric fossils, Spanish artifacts and exhibits on Native American history. Other topics include the founding and development of Clewiston, as well as the fishing, cattle and sugar industries. The subject matter ranges from early traces of the past to local and economic history.
Another focus is Riddle Field and the Royal Air Force’s role over Clewiston during World War II. This section adds a clearly defined military history connection to the topics covering the city’s past. Visitors interested in the different historical aspects of the area will find more than just one subject at the museum.
Sugar Festival and Historic Railway
The Clewiston Sugar Festival grew out of end-of-harvest celebrations held by the United States Sugar Corporation in the 1930s. The multi-day festival features live music, sugarcane processing, classic car shows, activities for children and local food vendors. Since the program varies, it is a good idea to check the specific dates and events before your trip.
Sugar Express also offers a glimpse into railroad history: the heritage railway uses historic steam locomotive No. 148 and historic passenger cars. In Clewiston, seasonal train rides, excursions and special events are available; schedules vary. Check the current schedule if you want to include a train ride in your plans.
Activities on Lake Okeechobee
Along Hoover Dike Road, Clewiston has four boat ramps and two floating docks providing access to Lake Okeechobee. The city’s boat ramps offer free launching and free parking. If you want to head out on the water by boat, you can compare these access points with rental options.
Roland Martin Marina offers V-bottom fishing boats, pontoon boats and Stratos bass boats for rent on Lake Okeechobee. If you have a specific boat in mind, it is a good idea to ask about current availability. This can help you choose between the listed boat types and the city ramps based on your plans.
Another option is Raisin’ Cane Tours. The offering includes visits to sugarcane and vegetable fields, as well as views of Lake Okeechobee. Individual tour routes may vary; check the specific route if you expect a particular combination of these activities.
Discover more destinations: Labelle, Port Labelle.
See the county-wide travel guide: Hendry County.
