Take These 12 Incredible Florida Hikes, One For Each Month Of The Year
As you kick off the new year in Florida, you might have a few things that you’ve added to your to-do list. If any of those things involve nature, outdoors, or breaking a sweat, then this list might be exactly what you were looking for. While it might not seem like it to many visitors, Florida is actually flush with uniquely stunning hiking opportunities throughout the state. Sure, you might not be changing elevation too much, or climbing up any mountains, but instead, we trade the steep terrain for pure natural beauty. Make a year of hiking a reality when you tackle the 12 best hikes in Florida, one for each month of the year.
Kick-off the year with an incredible hike that can be tailored to fit exactly what you need in terms of length. Because of the different options, this is a great kid-friendly hike in Florida. The total length of this trail along Econfina Creek is 18 miles, so if you’re feeling frisky, have at it! But you have plenty of options to turn around at any point, making it a much shorter hike with the same beautiful rewards. Just outside of Panama City, come spend the day in nature.
Find out more about the Econfina Creek hike.
Nothing says February quite like a trip to Lovers Key State Park. For the longest time, this park was only accessible by boat. Even though now there is plenty of accessibility, the park still remains quite secluded. Hiking through Lovers Key will give you a unique glimpse into nature, from dolphins frocking in the channels to birds diving nearby to catch their next meal. There are a few hikes within the park, so you’ll be able to have your pick!
Learn more about Lovers Key State Park.
This March, enjoy a short-and-sweet, light-and-breezy trail through Juniper Springs. It's one of the most scenic hikes in Florida! Clocking in at only 0.8 miles roundtrip, you’ll have a quick jaunt through nature without having to spend all day trekking. Plus, the natural beauty you’ll find along this trail is quite stunning. Make sure to bring a camera, too. This trail packs a ton of beauty in less than a mile.
Read more about Juniper Springs Recreation Area Trail.
Juniper Springs Recreation Area, 26701 FL-40, Silver Springs, FL 34488, USA
The Canopy Walkway at Myakka River State Park in Sarasota is one of the best hikes in Florida. You’ll have incredible, sky-high views of the Myakka River basin, as well as the ability to stroll through the live oak trees at new heights. Hike through the treetops at 25-feet above the ground on this surreal trail.
Check out more about Myakka River State Park Canopy Walk.
Myakka River State Park, 13208 State Rd 72, Sarasota, FL 34241, USA
By now, the temps are going to start climbing in Florida, which makes it the perfect time to incorporate some swimming holes into your hikes! The Pine Island Trail in Blue Springs State Park is about 4.5 miles long and will lead you to some of the best spots in the park. Then of course, after the hike, you can jump right into the springs to cool off!
See more about Blue Springs State Park.
Pine Island, Florida 32713, USA
June - Bulow Woods Trail, Bulow Creek State Park Florida
Out of all of the trails in Florida, the Bulow Woods Trail might have the most history of all. Hikers start at the Fairchild Oak, a 400-year-old Live Oak tree that is stunning, and one of the largest remaining in the state. Then hikers will wander 6.8 miles round trip on a path shaded by oak trees until they wind up at the historic ruins and outdoor museum within. This is a history lesson worth knowing about.
Read more about Bulow Woods State Park.
Bulow Creek State Park, 3351 Old Dixie Hwy, Ormond Beach, FL 32174, USA
Head on over to Milton, Florida this July for one of the most beautiful wildflower trails in the state. During the summer months, this trail is bursting with color and beauty and is not to be missed. Clocking in at around 1.5 miles roundtrip, it’s a simple hike that is loaded with flora and fauna.
Learn more about Blue Springs State Park.
The Jungle Trail is around seven miles roundtrip, but if that length worries you, you can always cut it shorter. What makes this waterfront trail so unique is that it is good for all skill levels and recommended for children ages 12 and up! Hike through the forested area and then along Indian River Lagoon for a perfect natural adventure in Vero Beach.
Read more about Jungle Trail in Vero Beach.
While this might not be a hiking trail per se, it’s still an exciting trail in Florida that makes for the perfect September afternoon on the water. The Chipola River Paddling Trail is a 51-mile designated trail where adventurers can experience various scenery from swamps to forests, to limestone caves, and beyond. You can paddle the whole trail or just a short snippet—either will be just as rewarding.
Find out more about Chipola River Paddling Trail.
Celebrate October in the creepiest way possible with a hike to the most haunted bridge in Florida. This trail in Marianna is short and simple and will take you to the historic Bellamy Bridge, which is all but a steel frame and remnants of a structure. But if the skeletal bridge isn’t enough to give you a fright, then perhaps the story behind the bridge will. Would you visit a bridge that is supposedly haunted by a young girl who met a tragic demise?
Learn more about Bellamy Bridge Trail.
Nature lovers unite for an epic 46-mile trail that is situated between Tampa and Orlando. The Withlacoochee State Trail is the longest paved trail in the state, perfect for a variety of activities from skating to biking, hiking, and horseback riding. Plan for an afternoon of fun as you meander through various small towns and varying scenery. Pro-Tip: break this hike up into smaller hikes to enjoy all November long!
Check out more about Withlacoochee State Trail.
Hiking through Rainbow Springs State Park in Dunnellon is a beautiful and memorable experience. While there are a handful of trails to choose from, we’re partial to the Rainbow Springs Trail which is 2.1 miles out-and-back, with a waterfall surprise! This stunning hike makes for the perfect way to end the year, and it's one of the most scenic hikes in Florida.
Read more about Rainbow Springs State Park.
Rainbow Springs State Park, SW 81st Pl Rd, Dunnellon, FL, USA
So, what’s your take on these 12 incredible Florida hikes? Have you completed any on the list already? Make sure to let us know in the comments section!
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The OIYS Visitor Center
Best Hikes in Florida
June 11, 2022
Danielle Schwartz
What are the most beautiful hikes in Florida?
Florida is a truly gorgeous state, and there are plenty of excellent opportunities for outdoor activities. It's hard to decide what the most beautiful hikes in Florida are, but we've compiled a list of some of our favorites. Ocala National Forest features amazing swamps as well as forest and other landscape highlights. If you're a big fan of wildlife, head to Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park. You'll find wild animals galore, from buffalo to alligators.
Where can I hike to a cave in Florida?
You can hike to a cave in Florida on an invigorating and challenging hike to Dames Cave. You can actually go inside the cave. This aspect makes it an especially unique experience, as many caves are too dangerous to walk inside. The cave itself is huge and allows for some of the best photos you'll find in nature. You'll definitely get some frame-worthy ones. Enjoy your lovely natural surroundings on the way there and back. Make sure you are hiking with friends that have advanced skills for this hike, though. It's certainly a challenge, but it’s worth it to experience this special hike that you will remember for a long time to come! It’ll be a fun bonding experience for a group of outdoors enthusiasts, too.
What are the best waterfall hikes in Florida?
Florida is known for its beautiful water features, from the ocean to lakes to, of course, its striking waterfalls. The best waterfall hikes in Florida include Big Shoals State Park in White Springs, Millhopper Geological State Park in Gainesville, and Rainbow Springs in Dunnellon. Rainbow Springs is reminiscent of Hawaii, with its stunning bright greenery and idyllic waterfall and little pool. Even though it's manmade, you will feel like it's natural when you go!
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A New Jersey native with over 15 years of writing experience, Marisa has studied at both New York University and Florida International University. She has lived all over the country, including a decade stint in South Florida. Marisa is well-versed in exploration as she travels a good majority of the year in her self-converted Sprinter van. Her articles have been featured in various notable publications over the years, she has a published collection of short stories, and three completed screenplays under her belt.
