Just a short jaunt from Jacksonville, Florida, is the tucked-away gem Ravine Gardens State Park. This delightful park is a perfect day trip for solo travelers, hobby hikers, or even just a day trip with friends. With tons of exciting things to do and fun trails to explore, it’s easy to spend an entire day outdoors here. Plus, wait until you see the various footbridges and suspension bridges you can hike over! If you've ever been looking for the perfect hiking trail with a suspension bridge in Florida, we know you're going to love this place!
Ravine Gardens State Park in Florida is one of a handful of state parks that have a history dating back to the New Deal era.
It is located about a 40-minute drive from St. Augustine.
Two ravines are the park's namesake, reaching a depth of 120 feet.
These steep ravines are a permanent feature of the park, with a spring-fed creek, among the many types of waterways in Florida, always bubbling away.
In 1933, these ravines became the stunning garden they are today, thanks to the federal Works Progress Administration.
Visiting the park is not just a historical experience, though.
There are so many features of this area that deserve to be explored. Especially if you like hiking trails.
The nearly two-mile paved road gives visitors a chance to see the most dramatic aspects of the park, especially during peak azalea season.
That's when it takes on a unique feel, almost like being in a botanical garden.
But one of the main attractions of the park involves suspension bridges throughout.
Two bridges stretch over the large ravine, both a real treat for hikers of all ages.
Plus, there are various footbridges, rock stairs, and other unique terrains to be admired.
It’s not every day that you come across a park in Florida with multiple bridges, especially ones crossing over water!
The mini scenic overlooks here are amazing!
So spend an afternoon exploring Ravine Gardens State Park for blossoming azaleas and bridges galore.
It will be one of the best Florida day trips you've ever enjoyed!
If You Only Have One Day to Visit This Small Town in Rhode Island, Here’s Everything You Absolutely Can’t Miss
If You Only Have One Day to Visit This Small Town in Maine, Here’s Everything You Absolutely Can’t Miss
If You Only Have One Day to Visit This Small Town in Massachusetts, Here’s Everything You Absolutely Can’t Miss
If you were to do a search for "parks with bridges near me," this spot would most certainly pop up at the top of the list!
Want to know more about this state park, including the best time to visit? Check out the Ravine Gardens State Park website.
Have you ever been to Ravine Gardens State Park in Florida? Did you hike across these bridges before? Have you been on any othersuspension bridge hike? Share with us your thoughts in the comments section!
Also, if bridges are your thing, then you'll want to head on over to Myakka River State Park in Sarasota. This Florida swinging bridge hike is not for the faint of heart!
Want to explore more hikes in and around the area? You can find some great trails by going to the AllTrails website.
Want to know how to talk like a Floridian? Then check out this video!
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!