4.8
(5829)
9,716
hikers
Curry Hammock State Park Nature Trail
00:35
2.33km
0m
Hiking
Embark on an easy hike along the Curry Hammock State Park Nature Trail, a 1.4-mile (2.3 km) route that takes about 35 minutes to complete. You will experience a unique tropical rockland hammock ecosystem, gaining only 8 feet (2 metres) in elevation. As you hike, you can admire lush tropical plants and trees, including one of the largest populations of endangered Florida thatch palms, before reaching an overlook with serene views of Florida Bay.
When planning your visit, be aware that the trail features uneven terrain with extensive surface cap rock and exposed tree roots. Wearing closed-toed shoes is crucial for your protection, as the rugged environment can make it feel more challenging than its easy rating suggests. Remember to bring your own water and bug spray, since there are no facilities directly on the trail and it can be quite buggy.
This trail offers a distinct opportunity to explore the Florida Keys, immersing you in a dense forest environment. Keep an eye out for tidal flats edged with mangroves and listen for birds like the white-crowned pigeon near the bay. The unique ecosystem and diverse plant life make this a notable short excursion for nature lovers.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Waypoints
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8 m
Curry Hammock Nature Trail 🐊
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🚶♂️ The trail leads along a narrow path through tranquil nature all the way to Florida Bay, where you can enjoy stunning views of the water—especially in the evenings.
🦋 Along the way, you'll encounter butterflies, birds, and sometimes even small lizards. At the same time, you should be careful: the ground is rocky, sturdy footwear is a must, and some plants, like poisonwood, can be unpleasant.
ℹ️ The trail doesn't start directly at the park entrance, but at a small parking lot on Bayside (off US-1). There are no restrooms, and mosquito repellent is provided in the summer—so don't forget your insect repellent.
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905 m
View of Little Crawl Key from Curry Hammock State Park
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2.33 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
2.06 km
270 m
Surfaces
2.06 km
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Wednesday 6 May
29°C
25°C
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any fees to access the Curry Hammock State Park Nature Trail?
Yes, as the trail is located within Curry Hammock State Park, there is an entrance fee required to access the park. This fee helps maintain the park's facilities and natural resources. Please check the official Florida State Parks website for current fee information.
Where can I park for the nature trail?
Parking is available within Curry Hammock State Park. Once you enter the park, follow signs for the nature trail or visitor parking areas. The trailhead is typically well-marked from the main parking lot.
What is the terrain like on this trail?
The trail traverses uneven terrain through a unique rockland hammock. You should expect a surface that can be rough, with lots of uneven limestone and exposed tree roots. While mostly flat, the natural and rugged environment requires careful footing.
How long does it typically take to hike this route?
The Curry Hammock State Park Nature Trail is approximately 2.3 kilometers (1.4 miles) long. Komoot estimates it takes around 35 minutes to complete, but due to the uneven terrain, it might take longer depending on your pace and how often you stop to observe the surroundings.
Is the trail suitable for beginners or families with children?
The trail is generally considered moderate in difficulty due to its uneven surface with limestone and tree roots, which requires careful footing. While suitable for various fitness levels, beginners and families with children should be mindful of the terrain. It is a 'hiking only' path, offering a focused nature experience.
What wildlife or plants can I see along the way?
You'll be immersed in a tropical rockland hammock, home to a dense forest of tropical plants and trees, including one of the largest populations of endangered Florida thatch palms in the United States. It's also an excellent spot for birdwatching, with species like the white-crowned pigeon often sighted. You might also encounter mangroves and various salt-loving ground covers near the tidal flats.
What should I wear or bring for the hike?
It's crucial to wear closed-toed shoes for protection against the extensive cap rock and uneven surfaces. Bringing your own water is essential as there are no facilities directly on the trail. Bug spray is also highly recommended, as the area can be quite buggy.
Is the Curry Hammock State Park Nature Trail dog-friendly?
The trail is generally dog-friendly, but dogs must be kept on a leash at all times. Please ensure you clean up after your pet to help preserve the park's natural environment.
When is the best time to hike the trail?
The Florida Keys generally have pleasant weather during the cooler, drier months from late fall through spring (November to April). During summer, it can be very hot and humid, with a higher chance of mosquitoes, so bug spray is especially important then. Early mornings are often best to avoid the heat and crowds.
Are there any specific points of interest or viewpoints along the route?
Yes, the trail offers several notable features. You'll experience the unique Curry Hammock Nature Trail 🐊 itself, which preserves a wild, untouched area of the Florida Keys. The route also leads to an overlook providing a serene View of Little Crawl Key from Curry Hammock State Park, facing Florida Bay. Informational signs along the way provide insights into the park's natural and cultural history.
Does this trail intersect with other well-known paths?
Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail, the 1 (Florida) trail, and the East Coast Greenway (FL).
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
Great trail through greens in multiple layers on a coral based ground. Encounter local plants, have a plesant walk and with a hint of luck some birds/butterflies or even racoons passing by.
Today, on the penultimate full day of the trip, it was the Keys' turn. The weather, which was already pretty bad in many parts of the USA (snow, flight cancellations, etc. included), was still okay here, with just a little rain every now and then (once a cloudburst). Today we were able to walk the entire way, even though we had to go through deep mud in some places due to the high water level. The mosquitoes like the humidity, and they really liked us too (the tributes from Fat Deer Key, I already left a little blood). The path, with lots of zigzags, was a real (and far too big) challenge for Komoot - the recording kept stopping (the only solution: stop and start again straight away). As a result, a lot of distance was lost and the average speed was ridiculously high. We didn't fly, but the routes that were subsequently taken over were obviously taken over with a duration of 0 seconds! Unfortunately, Komoot's weaknesses in terms of uneven paths (zigzag or up-down) are getting worse and worse, so it no longer makes sense!
We did the walk after the rain. It felt like 100% humidity. That's what it must be like in the rainforest. Great 👍 If you don't want to go all the way back (like us), you can make your way through the bushes across the parking lot. It's not a real path, but you can see the trail.