There’s more to the Sunshine State than just beaches and Disney World. Some of the most diverse landscapes and wildlife can be found here, with hiking trails that will lead you on an unforgettable adventure through swamps, rivers, along the beach and more.
Florida National Scenic Trail
Big Shoals State Park (link)
Follow the beautiful Suwannee River, as this trail winds along the river bluffs through steep ravines, flat vegetation, and past a wooden deck overlooking raging class III rapids (the only major rapids found in the Sunshine State). Big Shoals is a special and unique Florida treasure that will leave you captivated as it guides hikers through multiple varying landscapes and terrain.
Florida National Scenic Trail
Blackwater River State Forest (link)
This is the northernmost section of the Florida National Scenic Trail, located in Northwest, FL. If you’re looking for scenery that will take your breath away, be prepared to experience one of the best views in the Florida panhandle. This part of the trail opens up to views of the spectacular Blackwater River, passing giant red clay bluffs and crossing smaller tributaries such as Juniper Creek to keep the scenery always changing and always delightful.
Little Talbot Island State Park
This park not only offers beach access, but also boasts a handful of hiking trails that are known for great wildlife viewing opportunities. The four-mile trail will take trekkers through five different ecosystems that include maritime forests, desert-like dunes and marshes abundant with varying plant and animal life. Take in the sea breeze and comb the beach for ocean treasures after your hike!
Citrus Hiking Loop
Withlacoochee State Forest (link)
It’s trail-a-palooza in this neck of the woods, that is, Withlacoochee State Forest in central Florida to be exact. This is a great place for those training for long-distance backpacking, with over 40 miles of trails to traverse. But, light trail treaders don’t despair—there are plenty of smaller loops perfect for day hiking. These trails also fit the bill if you are looking for more of a challenge, with rolling hills and changing terrain that’ll keep your legs working.
Florida National Scenic Trail
Big Cypress National Preserve (link)
Travel to south Florida and experience one of the most unique trails in the U.S. Expect to slosh your way through knee-deep water, surrounded by gorgeous dwarf cypresses, bromeliads and orchids. Besides the mix of swamp and tropical fauna be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the endangered Florida panther, because this trail winds through one of the big cat’s last remaining habitats.
Bulow Plantation Loop
Bulow Creek State Park/Bulow Plantation Ruins State Park (link)
If you’re a history buff, then check out Bulow Plantation on the east coast, where 12 miles of trails careen through plantation ruins that were burned in 1836 during the second Seminole Indian War. It’s almost as if time is frozen here, and besides taking in the plantation, you can marvel at some of the oldest live oaks in Florida, including the 400-year-old massive Fairchild Oak.