Our roundup of closures on federal, state, and county lands across Florida in the wake of Hurricane Ian.
Articles on Hiking
Gear recommendations, hike planning, where to hike, and how to get the most out of your hike
Sunflowers on the St. Johns
For more than a decade, I’ve been chasing sunflower blooms in Florida wetlands in October. In 2021, it’s a banner year for these showy beauties in Central Florida.
Big Cypress Backcountry Access
By December 15, all public comments are due on the new Big Cypress Backcountry Access Plan. Here’s our analysis of it and our opinions, along with a discussion of backcountry and wilderness in Florida.
Sunflower Season on the St. Johns River near Orlando
In September, swamp sunflowers put on a colorful show along the St. Johns River between Sanford and Geneva, north of Orlando. Here’s where to take a hike to find them.
Public Lands Open in Florida
Public lands that remain open or have reopened in response to the public’s need for outdoor recreation and exercise. Find a place near you where you can hike, bike, or paddle.
Florida Beaches, Parks, and Trails Open and Closed
What is open and what is closed: our ongoing status updates for Florida beaches, campgrounds, parks, trails, and other public outdoor recreation facilities as we hear about them
For Your Health: Go Outside
While we’re asked to keep our distance, the outdoors is still there for us. You can hike, bike, and paddle with your family, but do so safely. Keep your mental and physical health good by enjoying nature.
Expand Econ River Wilderness
A proposal has been made public of a land swap offer between a developer and Seminole County for possession of Econ River Wilderness Area. We think that the existing preserve should be expanded, instead. Here’s how.
Hiking During Hunting Seasons
Florida’s hiking season is also the prime season for hunting in Florida. Be aware of where you’re hiking – many public lands permit hunting – for your personal safety.
Florida’s Top Outdoor Destinations
After exploring Florida’s outdoors for most of our lives, we’ve come up with a list of our favorite destinations for tackling trails – hiking, biking, and paddling – across the state. Spoiler alert: beaches aren’t involved.
Best Hikes on the Florida Trail
Explore our picks for the best scenic hikes along the Florida Trail. We’ve hiked the entire trail: these are pieces of the trail we’d be happy to hike again and again.
East or West around Lake Okeechobee?
Making the decision to walk the Florida Trail east or west around Lake Okeechobee used to be easy. Now, with construction zones blocking access to much of the southern half of the lake, it isn’t. Here are the facts on each route’s strengths and weaknesses to help you decide the best route for you.