Do you want an escape from the rush of modern life, but you barely have a weekend to spare? You’re in luck because some of the most interesting and scenic hikes in our state are well under five miles. These hikes are perfect for day trips or road trips with lots of stops, where you can get out into nature but not be exploring all afternoon long. Relax and recharge with this comprehensive list of some of the best hikes under 5 miles in Florida.

1. Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, Naples
Peter W. Cross via Flickr/VISIT FLORIDA
The 2.25-mile boardwalk will take you through marsh and wet prairie, pine flatwood, and a large forest of Bald Cypress - the largest left in North America. You can spot alligators, white-tailed deer, and many types of native birds. Bring binoculars for a glimpse of the "Super Ghost orchid" that blooms in the summer.
Click here for more information about this Florida trail.
Address: 375 Sanctuary Rd W, Naples, FL 34120
2. Big Cypress Bend, Fakahatchee Preserve State Park
Flickr/Jordi E
At only 2,300 feet, this boardwalk is very short and accessible, through a rare stand of ancient cypress trees. Look up for orchids and bromeliads, and possibly even some bald eagles.
Click here for more information about this Florida trail.
Address: 27020 Tamiami Trail E, Naples, FL 34114
3. Timucuan Trail, Alexander Springs, Ocala National Forest
Flickr/Jim Brekke
This is an exciting hike which winds through several different habitats before depositing you at a beautiful natural swimming hole. Many visitors hike this trail during the warmer months in Florida so they can cool off along the way.
Click here for more information about this Florida trail.
Address: 49525 County Rd 445, Altoona, FL 32702
4. Caladesi Island Trail, Dunedin
Flickr/philipp michel reichold
The trails at this park take you on a three mile tour of one of Florida's most beautiful state parks. This unspoiled barrier island has everything from a wonderful natural beach to slash pine forest and mangrove swamp.
Click here for more information about this Florida trail.
Address: Offshore Island, Dunedin FL 34698
5. Garden of Eden Trail, Apalachicola Bluffs and Ravines Preserve, Bristol
Flickr/Eleanor
Shorter doesn't always mean easier. This 3.3-mile hike in the Panhandle is possibly the most challenging hike in the state, due to the rise and fall of the terrain. Your hard work will pay off, though, because it leads to gorgeous scenic bluffs that most people have no idea exist in Florida.
Click here for more information about this Florida trail.
Address: Garden of Eden Rd, Bristol, FL 32321
6. Anhinga Trail, Everglades National Park
Flickr/Peter Dutton
This popular trail in Everglades National Park is an easy stroll of less than a mile. There are lovely views of the sawgrass prairies, and of course, plenty of alligators.
Click here for more information about this Florida trail.
Address: Homestead, FL 33030
7. Falling Waters Sinkhole Trail, Chipley
Flickr/Stephen Nakatani
This hike at Falling Waters State Park will take you past several deep sinkholes before leading you to the main attraction: Florida's tallest waterfall. The flow is seasonal, so call ahead to check on its status if you're hoping to see the waterfall.
Click here for more information about this Florida trail.
Address: 1130 State Park Rd, Chipley, FL 32428
8. Ravine Gardens State Park, Palatka
Flickr/Sandy Auriene Sullivan
Around two miles of trails weave up and down and around the ravines that the park is named for. Parts of the trail are a little rugged and steep, but the park also has a scenic drive. It's best to come in early spring when the azaleas are in full bloom.
Click here for more information about this Florida trail.
Address: 1600 Twigg St, Palatka, FL 32177

So, what do you think about the best hikes under 5 miles in Florida? Have you tackled any of these already yourself? Make sure to let us know in the comments section about your experience. Or, are you looking for a really special hiking spot in Florida? Check out this unforgettable hike.

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Best Hikes Under 5 Miles In Florida

Marisa Roman | September 05, 2020

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Can I hike to historical sites in Florida?

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What are the most easily accessible hikes in Florida?

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Featured Addresses
375 Sanctuary Rd W, Naples, FL 34120, USA
27020 Tamiami Trail E, Naples, FL 34114, USA
49525 County Rd 445, Altoona, FL 32702, USA
Garden of Eden Rd, Bristol, FL 32321, USA
Homestead, FL, USA
1130 State Park Rd, Chipley, FL 32428, USA
1600 Twigg St, Palatka, FL 32177, USA