Find the Best Scenic Hiking Trails in Florida

It is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy some of Florida’s best hiking trails with your family. The weather is cooler, less humidity and there is a bit of a cool breeze. So trade in those flip flops for a pair of hiking shoes and hit the trails. Here is a list of our family’s favorite scenic hiking trails in Florida.

Ravine Gardens State Park

We hiked at Ravine Gardens several years ago with our kids. It is one of our favorite spots that we have hiked. If your kids, like mine, love swinging bridges this is the hike for you.

There are two main trails. The Azalea Trail and the Perimeter Loop. Hike both if you can, they are not very long and fairly easy to navigate. There are stairs, so keep that in mind.

Trout Lake Nature Center

We have been to Trout Lake several times. This is a very family and pet friendly nature preserve to hike. There are several trails to pick from and a gorgeous lake to view. This is a very well maintained park with helpful staff if you any questions.

This is also a great location for geocaching. My son has one hidden here.

Blue Spring State Park

Hike the Blue Spring Boardwalk and experience some of the most fantastic views of the spring and if you are lucky the manatees. You are more likely to view the manatees in cooler weather. This is an easy hike, great for kids and the views are amazing. It can get crowded at the park especially in the winter months. The park will limit the number of entrants.

Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park

The trail down to the Devil’s Millhopper is a snap, but going back up all those stairs is really going to give you a workout. The views are worth it though. Make sure to hike the nature trail as well. It is currently an in and out trail as the bridge is closed for repairs.

O’Leno State Park

The River Hiking Trail at O’Leno State Park has the most beautiful nature scenes to experience. Take your time hiking this trail to take in everything around you. There is also another amazing swinging bridge at this state park.

Hillsborough River State Park

There are five main hiking trails at Hillsborough River State Park that range from easy to strenuous. We hiked the easy ones, it was really hot, but with this cooler weather I bet we could tackle those harder ones. The views from the trails were amazing, especially the River Rapid Trail and the Baynard Trail. Take these two if you want beautiful scenic views as you hike along the river.

Rainbow Springs State Park

There are four trails at Rainbow Springs State Park. We hiked the Yellow Trail. It was easy and we hiked it without any problems. My kids honestly, just wanted to get it over with so they could get into the water. The trails are well maintained and the staff was very helpful. The views are breathtaking, especially of the spring. Be sure to take a dip in the water after your hike.

Honorable Mentions

Currently Myakka River State Park and Hontoon Island State Park are closed because of Hurricane Ian. Be sure to check Florida State Parks for updates on these and other state parks. Also remember there are park entrance fees when entering Florida State Parks.

Hiking App

Download the hiking app AllTrails for trail maps, reviews and more photos of my recommendations or find new trails to explore. With over 300 thousand trails from all over the world you are sure to find a hiking trail perfect for your next outdoor adventure. Happy Hiking!

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