The best walks and hikes in Florida

Yes, Florida is an excellent place for beginners. The terrain is mostly flat, and there are over 1,200 easy trails to choose from. A great example is the Anhinga and Gumbo Limbo Trail loop in Everglades National Park, which features a boardwalk over a sawgrass marsh perfect for wildlife spotting.

Florida has several highly-regarded hiking areas.

Black Bear Wilderness Area is a local favorite, known for its well-maintained boardwalks and trails through scenic swamps. Another popular spot is Highlands Hammock State Park, which offers trails through an old-growth cypress swamp. For a unique wetland experience, many people visit Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve, featuring boardwalks that are perfect for spotting wildlife.

While Florida is famously flat, you can find some challenging hikes. The difficulty often comes from the terrain, like sand or swamp, and the length of the trail rather than elevation gain. For a longer, more demanding experience, the Shark Valley Loop Road is a 15-mile (24 km) trek. Some trails in central Florida's sandhills, like in Wekiwa Springs State Park, offer modest but noticeable elevation changes.

The best time to hike in Florida is from late fall to early spring, typically November through April. During these months, the weather is cooler, humidity is lower, and biting insects like mosquitoes are less of a problem. Hiking in the summer can be extremely hot and humid, so if you do, go early in the morning and bring plenty of water.

Florida's trails are teeming with wildlife. It's common to see alligators and turtles in and around wetlands, especially on trails with boardwalks like the Slew Walkway loop. The state is also a major birding destination, with wading birds like herons and egrets frequently spotted. In areas like Paynes Prairie Preserve, you might even see wild horses and bison.

Florida's flat topography means natural waterfalls are very rare. However, you can find some small cascades and rapids. At Big Shoals State Park, the Suwannee River creates Class III whitewater rapids when water levels are high, which is the closest you'll get to significant whitewater in the state. Most hikes focus on other water features like springs, rivers, and swamps.

Always be aware of your surroundings. Stay on marked trails to avoid encounters with snakes or alligators. Never feed or approach wildlife. It's crucial to carry more water than you think you'll need, especially in the warmer months, along with sunscreen and insect repellent. Let someone know your hiking plan before you go.

Dog policies vary by park. Many Florida State Parks allow leashed dogs on designated trails, but they are often prohibited on boardwalks, in swimming areas, and in most backcountry areas to protect wildlife. For example, the popular Black Bear Wilderness Area allows leashed dogs. Always check the specific park's regulations before you and your furry friend head out.

Yes, the premier long-distance trail is the Florida National Scenic Trail (often called the Florida Trail), which stretches over 1,500 miles across the state. It offers everything from day hikes to multi-week backpacking expeditions through diverse ecosystems, including sections in the Ocala National Forest and Big Cypress National Preserve.

The trails in Florida are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the unique experience of walking on boardwalks through cypress swamps and the incredible opportunities for wildlife photography. The sheer diversity, from coastal paths like the Hollywood North Beach Park trail to the pine flatwoods of inland parks, is also a frequently mentioned highlight.

Yes, loop trails are very common and popular in Florida, allowing you to start and end in the same place without backtracking. Many state parks are designed around them. A great example is the Wekiwa Springs State Park Loop, which takes you through several of the park's distinct habitats.

For summer hiking, wear lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing that wicks moisture away from your skin. A wide-brimmed hat is essential for sun protection. Despite the heat, consider lightweight long sleeves and pants for protection against the sun, insects, and thorny plants. Sturdy, breathable footwear is a must, as trails can be sandy, wet, or covered in roots.