Florida Hiking Guide.

Information to help make your Florida hiking or backpacking trip great. Resources to save you research and time...

With Florida claiming Britton Hill (345 feet) the lowest high point in the United States, Florida hiking doesn't offer much in the way of mountain hiking. But if you're looking for trails that stretch for 1,300 miles, like the (opens new window) Florida National Scenic Trail from the western Panhandle down to southern Florida, this is definitely a state for long distance hiking and backpacking.

Be aware you'll be sharing Florida hiking trails with wildlife that can be potentially dangerous like bear and alligator. They both usually avoid people but there's still a possibility you'll encounter some while on your hike. Always give them room to run away, if they feel threatened because they're backed into a corner you're asking for it. Making noise as you walk down the path is usually a good idea and should minimize your chances of surprising local wildlife.

Florida is also home to bobcats, several varieties of snakes, Florida panther, armadillo, Florida mink, river otter, flying squirrel and even the spotted skunk... Phew, be careful! ;-) And with some luck thrown in you may even be fortunate enough to see a beautiful Ghost orchid.

Florida hiking will usually be more comfortable during the morning on hot days and will help you to avoid heatstroke. Also bring plenty of water, you're working hard so take care of yourself by staying hydrated. The humidity will also make you feel like it's hotter than it really is.

If you're going hiking after heavy rains remember that some trails might be under water, high-quality waterproof hiking boots and good hiking socks are a smart investment. Nasty blisters will not only make you miserable but can also cut your trip short.

Certain Florida hiking areas require you to sign-in before you head down the trail. This is a good idea, letting people know your detailed plans before you leave could save your life in the event of an emergency. Also check on to see if hunters might be sharing the woods with you while you hike, if they are you might consider another area or alternate routes. Talk to someone who knows the area, like a ranger, for recommendations.

For Florida camping information see the Florida camping page.

Florida Hiking Guides/Books/Resources: I sort the good from the rotten so you don't have to.

The Hiking Trails of Florida's National Forests, Parks, and Preserves, by Johnny Molloy: If you wanted to hike Florida's National Forests, Parks, and Preserves and someone had written a book detailing every marked trail in them would it be worth your while to take a look? Well here it is. Johnny has written ten outdoor books on hiking, camping, and/or paddling so I'd consider him a veteran at this kind of thing. He's also got a book on beach and coastal camping, go to my Florida camping page if you're interested.

50 Hikes in South Florida: Walks, Hikes, and Backpacking Trips in the Southern Florida Peninsula, by Sandra Friend: If you're interested in hiking or backpacking the Atlantic Coast, Big Cypress Swamp, Everglades, the Florida Keys, and/or the Gulf Coast, start here. The author covers short distance hikes and some up to 20+ miles. If you would like to hike the 'true' tropical part of Florida, get this book to be your personal companion.

50 Hikes in Central Florida: Hikes, Walks, and Backpacks in the Heart of the Peninsula, by Sandra Friend: This is another of Sandra's books that covers hikes anywhere from 1 to about 43 miles. If you like to keep directions easy, clear and accurate, I know I do, then you'll appreciate this book on hiking central Florida. It comes with 51 maps, difficulty levels, time involved, and etc.

I hope I've helped to make your Florida hiking vacation better.