Florida Hikes

Hike Bike Paddle Camp Florida with authors Sandra Friend and John Keatley as your guides

Fort Christmas with open gate

Christmas

Named for the fortress built during the Second Seminole War on Christmas Day of 1837, the community of Christmas sits along creeks that drain towards the St. Johns River

INTERACTIVE MAP

Among the Palms

Of all of Florida's habitats, the one that truly sings "Florida" is the palm hammock, a richly textured riot of green and fronds, of mosses and lichens, of light and shadow perfectly balanced. Enjoy it on the Taylor Creek Loop.

Bike ride at Orlando Wetlands

One of the best ways to explore Orlando Wetlands is by bike. You can see a lot more than you do on foot. John recounts his journey around the park on his first bicycle trip in many months.

Biking Tosohatchee

  miles

A 20.2-mile circuit on forest roads by bike provides a unique perspective on this 31,000-acre preserve along the St. Johns River floodplain in Christmas.

Bronson Northeast Loop

Christmas   7.5 miles

Using Orlando Wetlands to access the northeast corner of Bronson State Forest, this 7.5-mile loop burrows deeply into ancient forests in the St. Johns River floodplain.

Bronson River Trail Loop

Christmas   9.5 miles

In a lush subtropical jungle along the St Johns River floodplain, the 9.5-mile River Trail loop is an exceptionally scenic route connecting three designated campsites.

Bronson State Forest

Christmas   41 miles

Despite more than 40 miles of hiking and multi-use trails, Charles H. Bronson State Forest is a lightly-visited destination hidden behind more popular public lands.

Canaveral Marshes

Titusville   5.0 miles

Hike up to 5 miles on levees through the marshes of the St. Johns River at Canaveral Marshes Conservation Area between Orlando and Titusville.

Econlockhatchee Sandhills CA

Bithlo   3.2 miles

In the floodplain of the Econlockhatchee River, Econlockhatchee Sandhills Conservation Area is a 706-acre showcase of upland habitat diversity with a 3.2 mile loop trail.

Florida Trail, Central Florida

In Central Florida, the Florida Trail presents two options: east or west around the Orlando metro. Forested public lands provide protection for much of the route.