9 Florida Hikes for Beginners and Veterans

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Southern Florida

Though South Florida is often known for its wild spring breakers and glamorous Miami lifestyle, there's no lack of outdoors adventures here. From small urban parks to The Everglades National Park, there is much more space to explore than you might think.

Beginner:
Footprints Trail, Babcock Ranch, Charlotte Harbor
Year-round wildflowers are just one perk of this moist ecosystem where hikers can enjoy a beginner trail, capping out at 2.2 miles. Old ranch lands provide visitors with a trip back into old-time Florida, before urban sprawl took over most of the area.

Intermediate:
Nature Trail, Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park, Key Largo
Though there's only one short nature trail in this state park, you can request a backcountry pass to make the most of the entire park. When you do so, you are likely to see any number of the 84 listed plant and animal species that live here.

Veteran:
Myakka Hiking Trail, Myakka River State Park, Sarasota
Hike under the shade of tall oaks and then bask in the sun as you traverse through miles of grasslands on one of the few rugged hikes that can be found in South Florida. If you're looking for a backpacking adventure in Florida, this 39-mile loop is the place to do it.

Whether you're having a relaxing vacation or traveling with a group of adventure seekers, you'll have no trouble finding Florida hikes to get you moving. With miles of coastline and plenty of wilderness to be explored, you have long days of trekking ahead of you.

More: How to Choose the Best Hiking Boots for You

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