While the fall months offer some opportunities for truly stunning hikes, Florida remains sunny and lush pretty much year-round. The state is full of a number of amazing hikes that take you can take through ecosystems as diverse as swampy marshlands and tropical shorelines. To list all of the great hikes found throughout Florida is a nearly impossible task. The following highlights some of the best trails throughout the state:
1. Little Talbot Island: Located in Northeast Florida, this state park offers a number of different trails that pass through five distinct ecosystems. This park is a must-see for anyone who likes to encounter wildlife while hiking. Each ecosystem has different plants and animals for hikers to enjoy, and there is even a dedicated nature trail.
1. Little Talbot Island: Located in Northeast Florida, this state park offers a number of different trails that pass through five distinct ecosystems. This park is a must-see for anyone who likes to encounter wildlife while hiking. Each ecosystem has different plants and animals for hikers to enjoy, and there is even a dedicated nature trail.
2. Little Manatee River: For a moderate hike, head to Little Manatee River State Park in Central Florida, which has a 6.5-mile loop perfect for bird enthusiasts. Nearly half of the hike follows the bluffs of the river, which has an Outstanding Florida Waterway designation. Common animals that you may encounter include whitetail deer, red shoulder hawks, and gopher tortoises.
3. Big Cypress National Preserve: The southern part of the Florida National Scenic Trail travels through Big Cypress National Preserve. This rugged hike provides a great physical challenge and requires hikers to trudge through knee-deep water over the course of miles during certain seasons. The water floods through dwarf cypress trees that are covered with native orchids and bromeliads. The preserve remains one of the few habitats of the endangered Florida panther, which you may see if you are particularly lucky.
4. Osceola National Forest: This small park is an interesting site for history buffs, who can see Olustee Battlefield, where the largest Florida Civil War battle took place. The other major draw of this forest is the presence of the Florida black bear. Although only few hikers will see one of these amazing creatures, it is definitely worth a try.
5. Fakahatchee Strand Preserve: Another amazing state park, Fakahatchee Strand also houses Florida black bears, as well as panthers. You will have the chance to explore some truly gorgeous forested swamps and see the legendary ghost orchid, which alone is worth the trip to the preserve.
6. Bok Tower Gardens: Amateur ornithologists should check out Bok Tower Gardens, located in Lake Wales, Florida. Here, you will find gorgeous, sparkling waters that reflect the tropical trees that grow locally. The gardens, which serve as a bird sanctuary, have earned a designation as a National Historic Landmark.
7. Blue Spring State Park: The main draw to Blue Spring State Park is the presence of endangered manatees in rather large numbers. You will very likely see several of them over the course of your hike and may even have a chance to interact with them.
8. Santa Rosa Island Beach: If you are a fan of the beach, visit the northern part of the Florida National Scenic Trail, which stretches along the beaches of Santa Rosa Island. The hike takes individuals through Fort Pickens, which defended Pensacola Bay in the 1830s, and the Gulf Islands National Seashore. While enjoying the soft sand and pristine water, be sure to wear plenty of sunscreen.
9. Torreya State Park: Seasoned hikers can take the 7-mile Torreya Challenge Loop at Torreya State Park while people wanting a slightly less strenuous experience can take the 6-mile Rock Creek Loop. Both trails, however, are meant for people who want a physical challenge while they explore the natural beauty of the surrounding area. The park takes its name from the endangered Torreya tree found in this area. You may also see the rare Florida yew. At the top of the trail, hikers get a wonderful view of the Apalachicola River.
10. Florida Caverns State Park: As the name implies, Florida Caverns State Park takes you through dark, damp caverns to experience a side of the state that few people get to see. In fact, this park boasts the only caverns in Florida open to the general public. The park is located in the panhandle, but it is definitely worth the trip for people interested in caves and the unique wildlife that lives in them.
11. Falling Waters State Park: This park attracts a number of visitors because it houses the tallest waterfall in Florida. While this alone is a reason to visit, the park also has a butterfly garden that can prove quite spectacular depending on the time of the year that you visit.
12. Big Talbot Blackrock Beach: One of the most geologically interesting hikes in Florida, Blackrock Beach on Big Talbot Island takes visitors around large masses that look like dark lava rocks. In reality, these masses are made of sand. This trail definitely has some unique photo opportunities.
13. Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park: Paynes Prairie Preserve has the honor of being the first state park in Florida. In addition, it has been declared a National Natural Landmark. The hiking is easy since the land is flat, but you may catch a glimpse of bison, wild horses, and alligators all in the same day.