The Trails is a deed-restricted single-family home community with a Sarasota mailing address in the 34243 ZIP code, although the neighborhood is actually located in southern Manatee County. Positioned just north of Tallevast Road near Tuttle Avenue, The Trails offers established homes, lakes, mature landscaping, private pools, and shared recreational amenities in a convenient location near University Parkway and Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport.
Developed primarily from the late 1980s through the 1990s, The Trails includes several recorded phases and a variety of one-story Florida-style homes. Residents enjoy a community pool, clubhouse, tennis and pickleball along with convenient access to University Park, Lakewood Ranch, UTC, Bradenton, and Sarasota.
The Trails Homes
The Trails consists primarily of detached single-family homes developed over several phases. Most residences are one-story homes with practical Florida floor plans, attached garages, screened lanais, and outdoor living areas.
Depending on the property, buyers may find two to four or more bedrooms, open or split-bedroom layouts, vaulted ceilings, formal and casual living spaces, private swimming pools, screened lanais, fenced yards, and lake or pond views.
Because homes were built over several years and have been updated at different times, buyers should compare roofing, HVAC systems, windows, plumbing, electrical components, hurricane protection, pool equipment, flooring, kitchens, bathrooms, and other property-specific improvements.
Multiple Development Phases
The Trails was developed in several recorded phases, including The Trails Phase I, Phase IIA, Phase III, and Phase IV. These sections were built over time beginning in the late 1980s and continuing through much of the 1990s.
MLS subdivision names may vary slightly by phase, so buyers searching specifically for The Trails should be aware that available homes may appear under different recorded subdivision variations.
Lakes, Ponds & Established Landscaping
Lakes and ponds are incorporated throughout The Trails, creating water views and open space behind select homes. Mature trees and landscaping also contribute to the neighborhood’s established residential appearance.
Some properties include private pools or screened outdoor living areas overlooking water or landscaped surroundings, while others occupy more traditional interior lots.
Community Pool, Clubhouse, Tennis & Pickleball
Residents of The Trails have access to shared recreational amenities that provide alternatives to maintaining private facilities at home.
Community amenities include:
- Swimming pool
- Clubhouse
- Tennis courts
- Pickleball courts
- Landscaped common areas
- Lakes and ponds
The recreational area provides space for swimming, racquet sports, social activities, and neighborhood gatherings.
HOA & Deed Restrictions
The Trails is a deed-restricted community with mandatory homeowners association requirements. HOA responsibilities generally include management and maintenance of shared common areas and recreational facilities.
Homeowners should not assume that individual lawn or exterior home maintenance is included. Maintenance responsibilities can vary by property and association documents, so buyers should review the current governing documents, budget, fees, reserves, insurance obligations, and any special assessments before purchasing.
No CDD
Current property information identifies homes in The Trails as having no Community Development District assessment.
Homeowners remain responsible for regular property taxes, applicable HOA dues, home maintenance, landscaping, private pools, and other property-specific expenses.
Pet & Rental Considerations
Pets are permitted in The Trails subject to current homeowners association rules regarding number, type, nuisance provisions, fencing, and other requirements.
Rentals are also subject to association restrictions. Current property information varies regarding minimum lease periods, so buyers purchasing with rental plans should verify the latest HOA documents and approval requirements before making an offer.
Sarasota Address, Manatee County Location
One important detail for buyers is that The Trails uses a Sarasota mailing address and the 34243 ZIP code but is physically located in southern Manatee County.
This geographic distinction can affect property records, taxes, permitting, public services, school assignments, and other county-specific matters. Buyers should rely on the property’s legal address and Manatee County records rather than assuming the Sarasota mailing address means the home is located in Sarasota County.
Near University Parkway, UTC & Lakewood Ranch
The Trails is conveniently located near University Parkway, providing access to shopping, restaurants, medical services, entertainment, and employment areas around University Town Center.
University Park and Lakewood Ranch are also nearby, offering additional shopping, dining, recreation, golf, medical facilities, and community destinations.
Nearby Sarasota & Gulf Coast Attractions
Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport is conveniently located west of the neighborhood, while Downtown Sarasota offers restaurants, performing arts, galleries, waterfront parks, and cultural attractions farther south.
Residents can also travel toward Siesta Key, Lido Key, and other Gulf Coast destinations for beaches, boating, dining, and coastal recreation.
Similar Sarasota Communities
- Country Oaks – An established Sarasota-address community in southern Manatee County with single-family homes, lakes, mature landscaping, and convenient University Parkway access.
- Longwood Run – An established residential area near University Parkway offering single-family homes, mature landscaping, lakes, and convenient access to UTC.
- Mote Ranch – A large Sarasota-area community with single-family homes, lakes, recreation, mature landscaping, and access to University Parkway.
- University Place – A gated community near University Parkway offering single-family homes, lakes, pools, recreation, and convenient access to shopping and dining.
- Woodbrook – A gated Sarasota-address community in southern Manatee County featuring newer single-family homes, lakes, recreation, and convenient access to both Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch.
The Trails Sarasota – Neighborhood Slideshow
The Trails Homes for Sale | Sarasota Florida
View current homes for sale in The Trails below. Available properties may include one-story residences, private pool homes, lakefront settings, screened lanais, fenced yards, and homes with a variety of owner updates and renovations.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Trails
Where is The Trails located?
The Trails is located just north of Tallevast Road near Tuttle Avenue. It has a Sarasota mailing address and 34243 ZIP code but is physically located in southern Manatee County.
What amenities are available in The Trails?
Community amenities include a swimming pool, clubhouse, tennis courts, pickleball courts, landscaped common areas, lakes, and ponds.
Does The Trails have an HOA?
Yes. The Trails is a deed-restricted community with a mandatory homeowners association that manages shared recreational facilities, common areas, and neighborhood standards.
Does The Trails have a CDD?
No. Current property information identifies The Trails as having no Community Development District assessment. Homeowners remain responsible for property taxes and applicable HOA dues.
Can homes in The Trails be rented?
Rentals may be permitted subject to current homeowners association restrictions and approval requirements. Because minimum lease periods can vary in available property information, buyers should verify the latest governing documents before purchasing.
Interested in The Trails or other Sarasota-address communities near University Parkway? Contact Wendy Lynn | eXp Realty for help comparing available homes, lake and pool properties, HOA requirements, county differences, and other Sarasota and Manatee County real estate opportunities.
