When the Anne Kolb Nature Center opened on February 10, 1996, it was the culmination of a lengthy process that involved many years of planning and development. Today, the nature center complex is a 1,500-acre coastal mangrove wetland that's home to a wide variety of plants and animals, including some threatened and endangered species. Three extensive paddling trails offer access to this wilderness area for sightseeing and fishing. Fossil fuel boats are not permitted in the open waters and on the paddling trails of West Lake. Trail maps are available at the visitor center. The nature center is part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail.