The best running trails around Key Biscayne

The Crandon Beach – Bike path on Key Biscayne loop offers a refreshing jogging experience, blending paved sections with natural, unpaved trails. You'll pass through pristine beaches, coastal dunes, and tropical hardwood hammocks, particularly within Crandon Park and its Bear Cut Preserve, where you might spot a fossil mangrove reef at low tide. The route provides expansive views of Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline, making for a visually engaging run.

This moderate 6.3-mile (10.2 km) loop, with a minimal 24 feet (7 metres) of elevation gain, takes approximately 1 hour and 3 minutes to complete. Parking is readily available within Crandon Park, making access easy. It's a great option for a morning or late afternoon jog to enjoy the cooler temperatures and beautiful light, suitable for most fitness levels.

This trail is part of the iconic Rickenbacker Trail system, known for its diverse ecosystems and top-rated beaches. Crandon Park itself is a designated natural Environment Study Area, protecting habitats like mangroves and seagrass beds, and is home to abundant wildlife such as herons, ospreys, and butterflies. It's a fantastic way to experience Key Biscayne's natural beauty and historical significance.

The No Name Harbor – Cape Florida Lighthouse loop offers a refreshing jogging experience through Key Biscayne's coastal landscapes. You'll navigate a mix of paved paths and natural surfaces, including sand and gravel, as you pass the iconic Cape Florida Lighthouse and the tranquil No Name Harbor. The route provides stunning vistas of the Atlantic Ocean and Biscayne Bay, winding through tropical forests and mangrove wetlands where you might spot diverse wildlife like birds and turtles.

This moderate 3.9-mile (6.3 km) jogging route has a negligible 13 feet (4 metres) of elevation gain, making it a quick and accessible option that takes about 38 minutes. While much of the trail is smooth, be prepared for potentially muddy sections in the mangrove areas, and remember to bring mosquito repellent. Parking is available at Cape Florida State Park, and an early start is always a good idea to beat the heat.

Beyond its natural beauty, this trail is rich in history, with the Cape Florida Lighthouse being the oldest standing structure in Miami-Dade County. The area is also part of the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom, adding a layer of historical significance to your jog. From certain points along the seawall, you can even catch glimpses of Stiltsville, the unique houses on stilts in Biscayne Bay.

The No Name Harbor – Crandon Beach loop offers a dynamic jogging experience across Key Biscayne, blending paved paths with natural sections of sand and gravel. You'll traverse diverse ecosystems, from shaded tropical forests and mangrove wetlands to open beaches, all while enjoying stunning bay views. Keep an eye out for the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse and the charming boats anchored in No Name Harbor as you complete this scenic route.

This moderate 9.0-mile (14.5 km) jogging route features a minimal 31 feet (9 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes about 1 hour and 31 minutes to complete. Parking is readily available within Crandon Park and Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park. For the most comfortable experience and best light for photography, consider starting your jog in the early morning or late afternoon, especially during warmer seasons.

Beyond the varied terrain, this loop is notable for its rich wildlife, offering opportunities for birdwatching and spotting manatees or dolphins in the surrounding waters. The trail provides a unique blend of natural beauty and historical landmarks, including views of the distant Stiltsville houses. It's a distinctive jogging destination that showcases the best of Key Biscayne's coastal charm and ecological diversity.