The best walks and hikes in Hernando County

Embark on an easy 4.3-mile (7.0 km) hike through the Weekiwachee Preserve: Maple Leaf Loop, a route that promises a gentle adventure with only 21 feet (6 metres) of elevation gain. You can complete this loop in about 1 hour and 45 minutes, making it perfect for a relaxed outing. As you hike, the trail guides you through varied Florida landscapes, from quiet pine flatwoods to lush floodplain forests. A highlight of the journey is encountering the preserve's distinctive bright blue, crystalline lakes, which reflect the sky and offer serene views. Keep an eye out for the small, lapping blue waves on these unique water bodies, adding to the peaceful atmosphere.

Planning your visit to the Maple Leaf Loop is simple, as the preserve welcomes visitors daily from sunrise to sunset with no entry fee. While the trail is generally easy, be ready for sections with limited shade, especially during warmer periods. It is advisable to wear appropriate footwear to handle areas of soft sand or rough limestone washboard that you might encounter. Always bring sufficient water to stay hydrated throughout this multi-mile hike.

This trail offers a rich tapestry of Florida's natural beauty, winding through diverse ecosystems like hydric hammocks. The striking blue lakes you will see are a unique feature, formed from former limestone quarries, adding a distinct geological element to the landscape. As you explore, you might spot various bird species and gopher tortoises, showcasing the preserve's vibrant wildlife. The Maple Leaf Loop provides a pleasant outdoor experience for hikers of all levels.

The Weekiwachee Preserve Loop offers a moderate hiking experience through a landscape shaped by its past as a limestone quarry. You'll encounter a chain of deep, bright blue-green lakes, which are former quarry pits now filled with clear water, providing striking views along the way. The terrain varies, moving through pine flatwoods, oak hammocks, and marsh edges. Expect sections of old jeep roads and soft "sugar sand" underfoot, which can make the 5.2-mile (8.4 km) route feel more challenging. With only 28 feet (9 metres) of elevation gain, this 2-hour and 6-minute hike focuses more on varied ground than steep climbs.

When planning your visit to the Weekiwachee Preserve Loop, be aware that many sections of the trail offer limited shade. This means it can get quite hot during warmer months, so bringing plenty of water is essential for your comfort and safety. The trail consists largely of old jeep roads, and some areas feature soft "sugar sand" which can be tiring to walk through. Parking is generally available at the trailhead access point, making it convenient to start your hike. Consider an early morning start to avoid the midday heat, especially in summer.

Beyond its unique quarry-turned-lake features, the preserve is a crucial habitat for Florida black bears. It also forms part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, offering good opportunities for wildlife sightings as you hike. The ecosystem here includes diverse environments like pine flatwoods and oak hammocks, providing a rich setting for local fauna. This blend of geological history and active wildlife makes the Weekiwachee Preserve Loop a distinctive outdoor experience in the region.

Embark on the Croom Trail North Loop for a moderate hiking experience through the diverse landscapes of Withlacoochee State Forest. This 9.2-mile (14.8 km) route guides you through rolling sandhill landscapes and expansive longleaf pine forests, offering a true taste of Florida's natural beauty. You will gain 239 feet (73 metres) in elevation over an estimated 3 hours and 49 minutes, encountering varied terrain that includes oak hammocks and brushy areas. Keep an eye out for the unique, more rugged sections around the Sugar Mountain Loop, which add to the adventure.

When planning your visit, you will find parking generally available near the Tucker Hill Day Use Area, which serves as a convenient starting point for your hike. While specific permits are not typically required for day hiking, it is always a good idea to check with the Withlacoochee State Forest directly for any current regulations or fees before you head out. This ensures you have the most up-to-date information for a smooth and enjoyable trip.

This trail offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Florida's distinct ecosystem, where you might spot wildlife such as red-headed woodpeckers and deer amidst the varied flora. The Croom Trail North Loop also provides a connection to the much larger Florida National Scenic Trail, giving you options for extending your adventure if you are looking for a longer journey through the state's natural wonders. It is a great way to experience the region's natural heritage.

Embark on the Croom South Yellow Loop for a moderate hiking experience through the diverse landscapes of Withlacoochee State Forest. This route spans 7.8 miles (12.6 km) and involves a gentle elevation gain of 289 feet (88 metres), typically taking about 3 hours and 17 minutes to complete. As you hike, you'll pass through areas of patchy hardwood forests and classic sandhill habitats, with views of slash pines, turkey oaks, and sand live oaks creating a varied backdrop.

When planning your visit, you'll find the Croom South Yellow Loop is dog friendly, so feel free to bring your leashed canine companion along. The nearby Tucker Hill Trail Head offers convenient amenities, including restrooms, a shelter, and picnic tables, making it an ideal spot to begin and end your adventure. Consider starting your hike earlier in the day to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer people on the trail.

This trail offers a great opportunity to immerse yourself in Florida's unique ecosystems, showcasing the transition from dense woodlands to open sandhill environments. Depending on the season, you might even spot vibrant wildflowers like coral bean shrubs or skyblue lupines along the path. The varied terrain, which includes both hard-packed dirt and occasional sandy spots, keeps the journey engaging and provides a true sense of the region's natural beauty.

Embark on the Croom Tract - A-B Loop, a challenging 14.7 miles (23.7 km) hike that immerses you in Central Florida's diverse ecosystems. You will gain 412 feet (126 metres) in elevation over an estimated 6 hours and 6 minutes, traversing rolling sandhill habitats and dense pine forests. Experience the serene beauty of shaded oak hammocks and follow the Withlacoochee River, where you can admire towering cypress trees and peaceful oxbow ponds. This difficult route offers a deep dive into the region's unique natural landscapes. Immerse yourself in the varied terrain, from sandy paths to shaded riverbanks, as you explore this extensive loop.

The Croom Tract - A-B Loop is accessible throughout the year, but careful navigation is key due to multiple-use trails and forest roads; always carry a map. Parking is generally available at the Tucker Hill Day Use Area, which serves as a convenient starting point for your adventure. If you plan to hike during hunting season, wearing bright orange is highly recommended for your safety. Be prepared for a full day on the trail, ensuring you have enough water and supplies for the duration.

Beyond the natural beauty, this route offers glimpses into the area's past, with potential encounters of historical remnants like old mining quarries. The trail is also a prime spot for wildlife viewing; keep an eye out for diverse species such as herons, egrets, and foxes as you move through the different habitats. This extensive loop provides a comprehensive experience of the Withlacoochee State Forest, showcasing its ecological richness and historical depth.

Embark on an easy 0.7-mile (1.2 km) hike along the Chinsegut Pines to Prairie Loop Trailhead, a gentle route that takes only about 17 minutes to complete. You will experience a subtle elevation gain of just 3 feet (1 metres) as you wander through diverse landscapes. Imagine strolling past towering old-growth longleaf pines, some of the oldest in Central Florida, with the distinct scent of pine in the air. The path leads you through sandhills and into open prairies, offering a peaceful and accessible outdoor experience.

This short and easy trail is ideal for a quick escape into nature, perfect for beginner hikers or anyone seeking a leisurely stroll. You will find well-defined paths, with some portions following old roadways, making for very easy walking. The route is part of the Chinsegut Wildlife and Environmental Area, providing straightforward access for your visit. Consider coming during cooler parts of the day for the most comfortable experience.

The Chinsegut Pines to Prairie Loop Trailhead is notable for its ecological diversity, showcasing a blend of sandhills, longleaf pine forests, and prairies. Keep an eye out for May's Prairie, a significant wetland area where sandhill cranes often gather, especially during the winter months. This offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing from designated boardwalks. The trail provides a unique glimpse into Central Florida's natural heritage and its ancient pine ecosystems.

The Good Neighbor Trail from Richbarn Road offers an easy hiking experience, covering 4.2 miles (6.7 km) with a minimal elevation gain of 52 feet (16 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 1 hour and 41 minutes. The trail begins by winding through rural residential areas, where you'll see farms and ranches, before transitioning into a power line corridor bordered by forest. As you continue, the path becomes quite scenic, leading you into the Croom Tract of the Withlacoochee State Forest, where you'll hike through mature sandhill forest. This section follows a historic narrow-gauge railroad corridor, providing a smooth, paved surface for your journey.

When planning your hike, be aware that amenities like restrooms and water facilities are not consistently available along the route, particularly in the more rural stretches, so it's wise to bring your own supplies. Parking is generally available near the starting point, making access straightforward. You should also exercise caution at rural road crossings and driveways, especially in the earlier sections of the trail, to ensure a safe outing.

This segment of the Good Neighbor Trail is a part of the larger Florida Coast-to-Coast Trail, highlighting its significance as a connective pathway. The route's foundation on a historic narrow-gauge railroad corridor adds a unique historical layer to your outdoor adventure. As you progress, you'll also pass the junction with the Withlacoochee State Trail, offering a potential connection point for longer explorations within the region.

Embark on an easy hike through the Silver Lake Recreation Area, a pleasant 2.5-mile (4.0 km) route in Florida's Withlacoochee State Forest. You will experience a gentle elevation gain of just 49 feet (15 metres), making this an accessible outing that takes about 1 hour and 1 minute to complete. As you walk, you will pass through the unique Munson Sandhills, where deep, dry sands meet the lush Florida landscape, offering views of large pine trees and moss-draped cypress lining the spring-fed Silver Lake.

This recreation area is well-suited for families looking for a relaxed outdoor experience. Parking is generally available, but be aware that the area is popular for picnicking and swimming, especially on busy days, so plan your visit accordingly. The trail also features interpretive information along the way, enhancing your understanding of the natural surroundings.

One of the highlights of this route is a lovely 250-foot white sand beach, perfect for a break or a picnic by the water. The diverse environment, from the sandhills to the lake's edge, makes it an excellent spot for nature watching, allowing you to observe local flora and fauna in their natural habitat.

The Cole-Lition Loop offers a moderate hiking experience through the diverse environments of Florida's Withlacoochee State Forest. You will cover 5.0 miles (8.0 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 99 feet (30 metres), making it a pleasant outing that typically takes around 2 hours and 2 minutes to complete. Expect to wander through varied terrain, including sections of the Withlacoochee State Trail and other named paths like Northeast Blue, providing a changing landscape as you go.

To plan your visit, you can easily access the trailhead for the Cole-Lition Loop near Nobleton Croom Road. Parking is generally available right at the starting point, which makes getting there straightforward. Always remember to check local conditions before you head out, especially if there has been recent rainfall, as some parts of the trail might become muddy.

This route stands out for its blend of established trails and more uniquely named sections, such as Moonshine, White Lightning, and Hangman's Ridge. The loop provides a good opportunity to explore different facets of the Withlacoochee State Forest, offering a varied and engaging journey for hikers looking for a moderate adventure in the area.