Travelers who research must-visit spots in Florida have no problem finding worthy attractions. If you know where to look, however, the Sunshine State is packed with wild, natural destinations often overlooked by visitors. These spots aren’t too secret, though, as most are easy to access, lying close to major cities.
Connect with these pristine areas, and you’ll see another side of Florida — one less traveled by tourists. These are trails calmed by the melody of chirping songbirds, and refreshed by surrounding towers of trees. Time it right and you’re in for an epic sunrise or sunset, maybe the serendipity of a cool swim in a natural spring. While some trails featured in our collection of the state’s best options do add miles to test your endurance, most offer friendly options for kids (and pets).
As a hiker who’s lived here for more than 20 years, these peaceful escapes rank high among the factors that have kept me in Florida for so long. During my years traversing the state in search of outdoor adventures, I’ve stumbled upon numerous picturesque routes, grateful to uncover some under-the-radar trails that define the real Florida.
Here are a few local favorites. Start with my top picks from each category of our Florida Favorites trail list, and then go explore the full collection.
Family Favorites
Black Bear Wilderness Area Trail
This is a favorite for Orlando-area locals, as it’s only 30 minutes from downtown. The well-marked trail winds through forest and wetlands, with a series of raised boardwalks, giving you a chance to spot alligators, wild boar, and birds galore. It’s a rewarding option for active families with hiking-ready kids. If the kiddos aren’t up for the entire 7-mile loop, a 1-mile, counter-clockwise hike offers scenic views of the St. Johns River.
Off-Trail: Head to nearby Sanford for authentic German eats downtown at Hollerbach’s. If you’re not interested in their sauerbraten, you can still down a post-hike beer from a boot.
Pet-Friendly Picks
Spanish Pond
Even though this scenic trail is managed by the National Park Service, there’s no charge to visit Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve (where it lies), making it a go-to outlet for Jacksonville hikers. This easy loop, just shy of 3 miles, is a great daily route that local dog-walkers swear by.
Off-Trail: You’re not far from some of Florida’s freshest seafood. Make it a point to try Mayport shrimp, a beloved local delicacy in this longtime shrimping and fishing hotspot. Pet parents can head to Safe Harbor Seafood, where they can bring their fur baby along to dine on the outside patio.
Sunrise & Sunset Spots
Bolen Bluff Trail
Locals love visiting this trail south of Gainesville, inside Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, especially during golden hour. Photographers appreciate the stunning views worth capturing of the wide-open prairie, paired with the backdrop of a colorful sky. You may even be lucky enough to see wild horses or bison. It’s a mellow hike that’s less than 3 miles.
Off-Trail: Before you hike to capture that magic dawn or dusk light, stop in downtown Micanopy, about 5 miles away. This is one of Florida’s oldest inland towns, and locals gravitate to the antique shops on Cholokka Boulevard.
Water Escape Favorites
Weeki Wachee Preserve Loop via Main Entrance
Limestone mining once happened in this fascinating coastal area north of Tampa, now a favorite local hiking spot. While hearing the geologic story of the porous stone’s caves and aquifers is one thing, seeing its clear waters and walking among its shoreline wildflowers is a relaxing treat, though you can’t swim in the surreal lakes.
Fortunately, Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is just 6 miles away. Taking a dip in the clear, natural springs is our favorite way to beat the Florida heat, and there are some fun water slides at the Buccaneer Bay water area.
Off-Trail: You can also catch the famous underwater mermaid show at this park, one of the state’s most unique performances.
After-Work Favorites
Tree Tops Nature Trail Loop
There’s no better way to unwind after a long office day than walking in nature, especially when there’s a convenient corridor near your big-city business. This trail is nicely located in Davie, a Fort Lauderdale suburb where locals often unwind after work by embracing some natural serenity. Since it’s a short hike (less than 2 miles), you can make those miles and still have time for happy hour.
Off-Trail: Follow the locals to The Field Irish Pub & Eatery for live music, trivia, or music bingo. The rustic ambiance and hearty dishes don’t hurt, either.
Top Spot for ADA-Accessible Adventures
Rish Recreational Park Path
Inside William J. “Billy Joe” Rish Recreation Area, a scenic trail runs along St. Joseph Bay that’s accessible for all. You’ll find a variety of mobility equipment that’s free for park visitors to use, including motorized wheelchairs and scooters that make it possible for everyone to enjoy the nature trail. The park is located in Northwest Florida in Cape San Blas along one of the Gulf Coast’s most serene beaches. (Tip: Bring your fishing gear.)
Off-Trail: Locals love fishing for pompano here. Drive 2 miles down the road to pick up bait and tackle at the Scallop Cove General Store. If they have fresh biscuits, be sure to grab one of those, too.
This article is sponsored by VISIT FLORIDA.
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