The Can’t-Miss Florida Hike for Every Nature Lover’s Bucket List

Everyone loves a good long walk on the beach, but there is a walking path in Fort De Soto in Florida where you don’t even have to get your toes sandy if you don’t want to. Hop on and off to see a fascinating old fort you can explore, take your kids to a playground or two, and spend some time on a detour to the best beach in Florida, on the Fort De Soto Multipurpose Trail. If you love the beach but want to spend the day doing more than just laying in the sand, then this is a must-do trail for any Floridian. 

I used to live in Florida, and Fort De Soto was a frequented spot for me; after all, it is considered one of the best beaches in the country. I still make it to the park every time I visit family, and it is just as beautiful on every trip. As great as it is to dip in the warm water or feel the fine white sand on your toes, there is a nearly ten-mile multipurpose path for you to try when you go. The paved trail parallels the scenic ocean views passing many interesting places and lined with tall palm trees.

One of my favorite spots along the trail is the fort itself. If you take a trip up the stairs then from the top of the fort you will get the best view of the whole area. High above you can see the swaying palm trees, the perfectly white sand, and the calming crests of the waves.

There are also view finders along the railing so you can use those to spot dolphins jumping in the water. Although I highly discourage defacing public property this one in this photo did make me smile a bit. 

The fort also has cannons around, which is a cool feature to explore. I have explored many abandoned forts, and most of the time, you will only see the rails where the guns used to be, so seeing these batteries is a real treat. The rooms are also all open for you to explore. We have spent many days ducking in and out of the structure’s different rooms. If you take the Fort De Soto Multipurpose Trail, the fort is a must-stop. 

The path is always in immaculate shape and offers many different views of the pristine beaches and swirling tropical ocean waters. If you have children with you than there are several playgrounds to play on along the way. The piers are filled with fisherman casting their lines but also offers an incredible chance to feel the cool gulf breeze with an experience like you are way out in the ocean. 

Whether you are visiting Fort De Soto in Florida for the first time, or the hundredth time, this trail is an awesome way to spend the day. You can take on the challenge of the whole ten-mile stretch or simply hit it in sections. To track your progress, which I find very helpful, I would recommend downloading the Fort De Soto Multipurpose Trail map on your AllTrails+ app. Also, if you fall in love with the area, then you can even camp inside of the park at the Fort De Soto Campground.