The Iconic Trail in Florida Everyone Should Hike Once in Their Lifetime

Editor’s Note: A small portion of the boardwalk is closed due to downed trees, but other sections of the trail remain open. Repairs are expected to be completed by the spring of 2026, but I recommend visiting the Sawgrass Lake Park website for the latest information. 

Florida is a fantastic place to hike with its quiet forests, thriving plants and wildlife, white sandy beaches, and abundant sunshine. I especially love hiking early in the day when the trails are peaceful and my energy is high. The temperatures and humidity also tend to be lower this time of day, making the sun and heat a bit more manageable. Plus, the hiking trails in Florida are less crowded, giving me more time for peaceful adventures in nature. 

Sawgrass Lake Park in Lealman is one of the most scenic destinations to hike in Florida. The picturesque park allows visitors to enjoy much of what is unique about Florida: wild, wet, and brimming with beauty. Here, you’ll find the two-mile-long Sawgrass Lake Park Trail. This iconic trail in Florida meanders through lush vegetation, with water views and plenty of opportunities to enjoy wildlife. This scenic trail is kid-friendly with portions of paved and boardwalk surfaces, making it great for moms with strollers and wheelchair users, too.

The Sawgrass Lake Park Trail is a two-mile hike that's fairly flat - the entire trail only gains nine feet in elevation. The trail is considered easy and open year-round to hikers. Dogs are not allowed, but the little ones can explore the park with you.

The trail begins at the John A. Anderson Environmental Education Center, where visitors can learn about the area. It continues north and forms a loop before returning south. Then, it takes hikers west to Sawgrass Lake. Portions of the trail are wooded boardwalks, elevating hikers above the ground.

The trail offers fantastic opportunities to view wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for ducks, migratory birds, lizards, armadillos, and turtles. If you get lucky, you'll also spot gators here as well. Of course, as with any wild destination in Florida, please remember not to approach, disturb, or feed the alligators.

Observation decks along the trail let hikers observe the wildlife below from a distance. In the spring and fall, many birds migrate through the park, making it an excellent place for birdwatching. So, don't leave your binoculars at home for this hike.

This trail is located in Sawgrass Lake Park, a 400-acre park managed by the Pinellas County parks system. The park protects one of the most extensive maple swamps in the Gulf Coast region. Maple swamps are wetland areas in which maple trees make up the majority of the tree canopy.

The thriving maple swamp supports the growth of many animal species, creating the varied wildlife in the park. The park is open year-round except for two holidays: the Friday after Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. In addition to the hiking trails, the park has restrooms, a picnic shelter area, and grills for visitors to use.

As you can tell, this park is not only beautiful, but it's an important part of our ecosystem. As you trek the Sawgrass Lake Park Trail, you'll get to experience a unique piece of nature, making this iconic trail in Florida well worth it.

For more information, visit the Sawgrass Lake Park website and the Sawgrass Lake Park Trail listing on AllTrails. Have you visited Sawgrass Lake Park? Where is your favorite place to view wildlife in Florida? Share it with us on our nomination page - we'd love to hear from you!

The St. Petersburg and Pinellas County areas of Florida have much to offer, including Sunken Gardens, a lush and immaculately maintained botanical garden. The area also has fantastic restaurants, including Fresco's Waterfront Bistro, a seafood restaurant with unbelievable water views.

To prepare for your next hike, check out our ultimate hiking packing list. The list includes backpacks, water bottles, shoes, and more. And when you're feeling inspired, use Only In Your State’s itinerary planner to create your next hiking adventure in Florida.