Jacksonville offers a diverse range of outdoor experiences, from scenic coastal trails and lush forests to peaceful wetlands and wildlife preserves. Whether you’re looking for a short nature walk or a longer hike, the city has plenty of options for outdoor enthusiasts.
This guide highlights the best hiking and nature trails in Jacksonville, perfect for exploring the region’s natural beauty.
Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve
Why Go: This expansive preserve combines natural beauty with historic sites, making it one of the best outdoor destinations in Jacksonville. The trails here take you through marshlands, forests, and historic landmarks, offering a mix of scenery and history.
Best For: Hiking, history, and wildlife viewing.
Top Trails:
- Willie Browne Trail (1.5 miles) – A peaceful walk through oak hammocks and wetlands.
- Spanish Pond Trail (1 mile) – A short but scenic trail leading to Fort Caroline National Memorial.
Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
Why Go: A hidden gem in Jacksonville, the arboretum offers a mix of lush gardens, quiet nature trails, and lakeside paths. It’s a perfect place for a relaxing walk or a peaceful hike.
Best For: Easy nature walks and photography.
Top Trails:
- Lake Loop Trail (0.7 miles) – A scenic walk around the main lake.
- Jones Creek Trail (1.1 miles) – A winding trail through woodlands and wetlands.
Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park
Why Go: This beachside park is one of Jacksonville’s top outdoor destinations, offering a mix of hiking trails, a freshwater lake, and beach access. The trails wind through maritime forests and sand dunes, providing a unique hiking experience.
Best For: Beach hikes, biking, and camping.
Top Trails:
- South Trail (2.3 miles) – A shady, forested trail with moderate elevation changes.
- Dune Ridge Trail (1.5 miles) – A scenic path through sand dunes leading to the beach.
Little Talbot Island State Park
Why Go: One of Florida’s most pristine barrier islands, this park offers stunning views of coastal dunes, salt marshes, and unspoiled beaches. The trails here provide a true escape into nature.
Best For: Secluded hikes and nature photography.
Top Trails:
- Little Talbot Hiking Trail (4 miles) – A loop trail that takes you through maritime forests and along the shoreline.
Big Talbot Island – Blackrock Trail
Why Go: Blackrock Trail is one of Jacksonville’s most unique hikes, leading to Boneyard Beach, where driftwood trees create an otherworldly landscape. The black rock formations along the shoreline make this one of the most scenic spots in Northeast Florida.
Best For: Unique coastal hikes and photography.
Top Trail:
- Blackrock Trail (1.8 miles round trip) – A short but rewarding hike to the famous driftwood-covered beach.
Castaway Island Preserve
Why Go: A peaceful waterfront nature preserve, Castaway Island is perfect for short hikes, birdwatching, and scenic overlooks. The well-maintained boardwalk trails make it an easy and accessible outdoor spot.
Best For: Family-friendly hikes and birdwatching.
Top Trail:
- Castaway Island Loop (0.5 miles) – A short and easy walk through salt marshes with viewing platforms.
Theodore Roosevelt Area
Why Go: A lesser-known part of the Timucuan Preserve, this area offers some of the best wooded hiking trails in Jacksonville. It’s great for those looking for longer, more challenging hikes.
Best For: More advanced hiking and nature exploration.
Top Trails:
- Timucuan Trail (3 miles) – A rugged trail through forests and along the St. Johns River.
- Willie Browne Trail Extension (2.5 miles) – A scenic hike with great wildlife viewing.
Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail
Why Go: This 14.5-mile paved trail follows an old railroad track, making it one of the best trails for long-distance biking, running, or hiking. It’s mostly shaded and passes through forests and open fields.
Best For: Long-distance biking and walking.
Top Trail:
- Jacksonville-Baldwin Trail (14.5 miles) – A straight, easy-to-follow trail with rest stops along the way.
Julington-Durbin Creek Nature Preserve
Why Go: This hidden nature preserve in South Jacksonville features serene hiking trails, dense forests, and scenic waterways. It’s a great place for a quiet nature escape.
Best For: Peaceful nature walks and kayaking.
Top Trails:
- Durbin Creek Trail (6 miles) – A longer hike with beautiful creek views and shaded pathways.
Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve (GTM Reserve)
Why Go: Located just south of Jacksonville, GTM Reserve offers a mix of coastal dunes, marshes, and shaded forest trails. It’s one of the best spots for wildlife watching and hiking.
Best For: Exploring diverse ecosystems and birdwatching.
Top Trails:
- Guana Loop Trail (3.5 miles) – A scenic hike through coastal forests and salt marshes.
- Shell Bluff Trail (2 miles) – A peaceful walk with views of Guana Lake.
Final Thoughts
Jacksonville is home to some of Florida’s most scenic hiking and nature trails, offering everything from coastal walks and forested paths to wildlife-rich marshes. Whether you’re looking for a short nature walk or a longer adventure, there’s a perfect trail for every outdoor enthusiast.
