Florida Hiking Trails

Black Bear Hike 2020

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In August, my son and I finally managed to hike the entire 7.1-mile Black Bear Wilderness Loop Area in Sanford. It was a great experience and several miles of the trail run alongside the scenic St. Johns River. We didn’t see any alligators this time out, but we did view two deer along the way. The trail is definitely rugged, so bring plenty of water and bug spray, and prepare to invest at least 3.5 hours if you plan to hike the entire thing. However, a good short hike involves going counterclockwise to the St. Johns River and back for a two-mile stroll.

De Leon Springs State Park

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Due to the global pandemic, swimming at De Leon Springs State Park has been prohibited indefinitely. However, this means that you can enjoy picnicking and hiking here without dealing with the usual frenzied crowds that descend upon this widely popular Florida state park located just north of DeLand. The Wild Persimmon, a four-mile hiking trail, is definitely recommended. In addition, the legendary Sugar Mill Restaurant remains open.

Return to Lake Harney

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Ideally located along the scenic St. Johns River, Lake Harney Wilderness Area is the perfect spot to get some exercise, view wildlife (I almost always see deer out here in the early morning) and social distance (I hardly ever run across anyone else out here during my hikes). There’s even an observation deck for a sweeping view of Lake Harney itself and the surrounding area. So, what are you waiting for? Mark Lake Harney Wilderness Area down on your calendar and get out in the great outdoors!

Circle B Bar Reserve

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After hearing great things about Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, we finally got the opportunity to visit and enjoy just a small sampling of this amazing wildlife habitat. A former cattle ranch on the shore of Lake Hancock, Circle B Bar Reserve encompasses 1,267 acres and contains a diversity of great hiking trails. We saw several alligators and the reserve was also teeming with various bird species. We will definitely return soon to explore other areas of Circle B Bar Reserve. Highly recommended!

Withlacoochee River Park

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We discovered a great outdoor oasis way off the beaten path at Withlacoochee River Park in Dade City. Several scenic trails meander through the park, including a portion of the Florida Trail. Don’t miss the opportunity to climb the Observation Tower for a great view of the surrounding area. Oh yeah, make sure to pack some mosquito repellent because we got eaten alive on this outing – but it was well worth it! Other stops during this adventure included a visit to the charming 1922 Richloam General Store in Webster and an outstanding lunch at Kafe Kokopelli in downtown Dade City.

Sweetwater Wetlands Park

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If your travels take you to Gainesville and you want to view some wildlife, make sure you add Sweetwater Wetlands Park to your travel itinerary. A thriving habitat, Sweetwater features 125 acres of wetlands and ponds teeming with wildlife such as alligators, birds and even Florida cracker horses (although we didn’t see any during our most recent outing). Wander through 3.5 miles of crushed gravel trails and boardwalks at this serene nature sanctuary just minutes from downtown Gainesville.

Trimble Park Revisited

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Nestled between Lake Beauclair and Lake Carlton, scenic Trimble Park never fails when it comes to wildlife viewing. The past two times I have viewed two different alligators sunning on the same log (see above). Also, if you are going for a hike, make sure you visit the boardwalk toward the back of the park. Very cool!

Fairchild Oak

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Estimated to be between 300 and 400 years old, the majestic Fairchild Oak is located at Bulow Creek State Park in Ormond Beach. The southern trailhead for the 6.8-mile Bulow Woods Hiking Trail also can be found here. The scenic hiking trail ends at Bulow Plantation Ruins State Park, another must-see destination.