Hike To An Emerald Lagoon On The Easy Pine Island Trail In Florida

There is nothing quite like taking a hike on a warm Florida afternoon and ending up at a beautifully tranquil, emerald lagoon in the middle of nature. Guests who visit Blue Spring State Park and hike the Pine Island Trail will be in for a most magical surprise. The trail itself clocks in at under five miles out and back, but the variety of nature you’ll see along the way is well worth the trek.

The Pine Island Trail in Florida is a 4.9-mile trek through Blue Spring State Park that takes guests through the wilderness and back.

This moderately hiked trail has a minimal elevation change, but it does require a bit of effort along the way.

For the first part of the trail, you’ll be walking under the pine canopies, shaded along your journey as you wander deeper into nature.

Eventually, you’ll come upon a few miles of sanded trails with little to no shade, so make sure you bring sunscreen or a hat to cover up with.

There will be tons of native Florida foliage along this journey, which eventually will take you to a stunning emerald lagoon spring.

Obviously the highlight of the state park, Blue Spring stays at a cool 72 degrees year-round and is most refreshing after a long hike.

During the winter months, the springs are closed to swimming because hundreds of manatees take to the water to hang for the winter.

Hike the Pine Island Trail through Blue Spring State Park and end up at a beautiful emerald lagoon watching manatees play or taking a dip after a long trek.

To see where the Pine Island Trail in Florida click here to open the map.

Have you ever hiked the Pine Island Trail in Florida before? Share with us your experience in the comments section! Or if you’re looking for more information about this trail, then check out the Florida State Parks website.