Places To Hike Near Pensacola

Tarkiln Bayou Preserve State Park

2401 Bauer Rd, Pensacola, FL 32506

Tarkiln Bayou Preserve State Park is located in southwest Pensacola and spans more than 4,290 acres in northwestern Florida. This quiet preserve features hiking trails, a picnic area, and a small pier along Tarkiln Bayou. One of the highlights of the park is its half-mile ADA-accessible boardwalk that leads visitors out over the bayou. The preserve is also home to four species of endangered pitcher plants, along with several other rare plant species found only in this region. Tarkiln Bayou Preserve State Park is located in Escambia County, about 1.5 miles south of the intersection of U.S. Highway 98 and State Road 293.

Bayou Marcus Water Reclamation Facility Boardwalk

3050 Fayal Drive, Pensacola, FL 32526

The Bayou Marcus Water Reclamation Facility Boardwalk offers a peaceful place to step away and enjoy a quiet walk in nature. This family-friendly boardwalk is ideal for a reflective stroll, birdwatching, or simply slowing down to enjoy the surroundings. The boardwalk runs along the Bayou Marcus wetland system, where reclaimed water is discharged into the bayou. This environment attracts a variety of birds and other wildlife, making it a great spot for nature observation. Located near Pensacola, Florida, the Bayou Marcus boardwalk is approximately 3 miles round-trip, making it an easy and enjoyable walk for all ages.

Big Lagoon State Park

12301 Gulf Beach Hwy, Pensacola, FL 32507

Big Lagoon State Park spans 655 acres of coastal beauty and outdoor adventure in Pensacola, just across the Theo Baars Bridge from Perdido Key. The park offers a mix of sandy hiking trails and elevated boardwalks, making it a great place for both casual walks and longer explorations. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, kayaking, camping, and picnic areas, with trails that wind through salt marshes, coastal habitats, and along the lagoon itself. Elevated boardwalks and an observation tower provide scenic views and make it easy to slow down and take in the surrounding landscape. Over the years, my family has spent a lot of time here—camping, birding, paddling in the salt marshes, and exploring Big Lagoon. With its variety of trails, boardwalks, and wildlife viewing opportunities, Big Lagoon State Park is an excellent stop for nature lovers and bird watchers alike.

Perdido Key State Park

Hike in Perdido Key State Park along the tannic waters of Old River. Along Old River, a sandy trail allows visitors to walk beside the water and through coastal habitats, offering a peaceful and scenic route that highlights the park’s natural character.

Edward Ball Nature Trail

The Edward Ball Nature Trail is a peaceful escape for students and visitors at the University of West Florida. This easy, scenic trail offers a close-up look at a natural wetland environment and is a great place for a quiet walk or a short nature break. The trail is a one-mile loop built on a raised boardwalk that circles Thompson’s Creek, a tributary of the Escambia River. Walking the boardwalk offers excellent opportunities to observe wetland plants, birds, and other wildlife. The Edward Ball Nature Trail is located behind Crosby Hall (Buildings 10 and 11) on the University of West Florida campus and is easily accessible for visitors exploring the area.

Florida National Scenic Trail (Fort Pickens)

Fort Pickens Trails offer an easy, family-friendly option for hiking or biking on Pensacola Beach. One of our favorite sections connects Battery Worth to Fort Pickens and provides a short, scenic outing that’s perfect for all ages. This stretch of the Florida National Scenic Trail is approximately 0.7 miles long, making it an approachable walk or ride for families. The trail winds through coastal dunes and maritime forest, with landscapes that include sand live oak, slash pines, myrtle oak, saw palmetto, rosemary, and other native plants. A portion of the trail follows small water channels, where it’s common to spot turtles and other wildlife. A small bridge along the route is a great place to pause, look for wildlife, and enjoy the surrounding scenery before continuing on to Fort Pickens.

Big Sabine Bay Trail

Big Sabine Bay Trail offers a more adventurous hike along a sandy stretch of the Florida National Scenic Trail. This trail leads hikers through coastal dunes and wetlands to a unique and lesser-known destination near Big Sabine Bay. One highlight of this hike is reaching the remains of an abandoned Pompano hatchery. What was once a working fishery is now a series of concrete tanks, weathered and covered in graffiti, creating an unexpected contrast against the surrounding natural beauty. The area offers great photo opportunities and views of dunes, wetlands, and Santa Rosa Sound. This section of the trail is considered moderate due to its sandy terrain and primitive nature. To access the trail, park at Park East and look for the marked trail southeast of the parking area. Hike south toward Santa Rosa Sound, then continue along the waterline to reach the tanks. As always, pack out what you bring in and leave only your footprints behind. Best place to park: Park at Park East on Pensacola Beach. Trail access is across the street.

Brackenridge Nature Trail

1801 Gulf Breeze Pkwy, Gulf Breeze, FL 32563

Brackenridge Nature Trail is a short, 0.3-mile boardwalk loop located within Naval Live Oaks, part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore. This easy trail is ideal for a quick nature walk and offers an up-close look at the area’s coastal woodland habitat. Along the boardwalk, interpretive signs explain how the surrounding forest provides food, shelter, and nesting areas for birds, reptiles, and mammals, making it a great stop for families and wildlife enthusiasts.

Clear Creek Nature Trail

Magda Village, Milton, FL 32570

Clear Creek Nature Trail is a scenic 1.6-mile loop trail in Milton, Florida, rated moderately easy and well-suited for families with children. The trail offers a nice mix of forest and wetland environments, making it an engaging walk for all ages. The trail begins near the RV park, at the entrance to Whiting Field, and starts in an upland oak and pine forest before winding into wetlands. Along the way, hikers can spot a beaver dam and lodge, pitcher plants, and a variety of wetland vegetation. An elevated boardwalk section takes you directly over the wetlands, offering a close-up view of the beaver habitat. Clear Creek Nature Trail is an interpretive trail with educational signs throughout that help identify native plants and wildlife. It’s also a popular birding location and is listed on the Florida Birding Trail, with opportunities to see Pine Warblers, Hermit Thrushes, Blue Herons, and other bird species. The trail is located at Magda Village Road in Milton. Visitors are encouraged to call ahead to confirm hours before visiting.

Shoreline Park South

800 Shoreline Drive, Gulf Breeze, FL 32561

Shoreline Park offers a great option for family-friendly hiking and walking in Gulf Breeze, with two accessible trail systems that are easy to enjoy at any pace. The Shoreline Loop Trail is a paved, 1.2-mile out-and-back walk that winds through a hardwood forest of live oaks, magnolias, and pine trees. The shaded canopy and smooth surface make this one of our favorite spots for a relaxed walk. Several unpaved offshoot trails branch off the main loop, offering short detours for those looking to explore a little more. The Wetlands Boardwalk and Trails, located at Shoreline Park South, are a newer addition to the park. An elevated boardwalk leads visitors through a natural wetland area, providing an up-close look at wetland plants and wildlife. Both trail systems are family-friendly and handicap accessible, making Shoreline Park an easy and enjoyable stop for all ages.

Arcadia Mill Archaeological Site

5709 Mill Pond Ln, Milton, FL 32583

Arcadia Mill Archaeological Site is a unique stop that combines local history with a peaceful wetland setting. Located in Milton, just east of Pensacola, the site gives visitors the chance to explore both an important archaeological area and the surrounding natural landscape. Arcadia Mill features hiking trails and an elevated boardwalk that wind through wetlands and along Pond Creek. Along the way, visitors can explore the remains of a historic sawmill, dam, and waterworks that once played a key role in the area’s early industry. A visitor center and museum provide additional context and make this a great place to learn while you explore. The site is free and open to the public. Arcadia Mill and the Visitor Center are open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with guided tours offered daily. The park is located at 5709 Mill Pond Lane in Milton, Florida.

Garcon Point Trail

1999 Avalon Blvd, Milton, FL 32583

Garcon Point Trail is a quiet, scenic hiking option in Milton that offers a mix of forest, wetlands, and open views. The trail includes a 1.7-mile loop and a 1.2-mile spur, giving hikers flexibility depending on how much time they have. The trail is mostly flat and begins on relatively dry ground, but sections of the loop pass through wetter areas. Board crossings help in many spots, though hikers should be prepared for muddy or wet conditions, especially after rain. Wildlife sightings are common, and the trail is especially enjoyable during the cooler months when bugs are minimal. Garcon Point Trail is a great choice for a refreshing walk in nature, whether you’re fitting in a quick hike or stretching it into a longer outing. In warmer months, insect protection is recommended due to mosquitoes and ticks.

Juniper Creek Trail

Deaton Bridge Rd, Milton, FL

Juniper Creek Trail is a scenic hiking trail located in Blackwater River State Forest that follows the winding banks of Juniper Creek. This 8.8-mile trail is a segment of the Florida National Scenic Trail and offers a peaceful, immersive walk through north Florida’s forested landscape. We’ve hiked the northern section of the trail several times, and it’s a well-marked and beautiful stretch. The trail winds through pine and hardwood forest, with magnolia trees lining the creek banks. In the spring, shrubs and small trees bloom, adding even more color to the landscape. Near the beginning of the trail, a scenic overlook offers a beautiful view of Juniper Creek below. Hikers can access either the northern or southern sections of the trail, depending on distance and time available. The Juniper Creek Trail is a great choice for those looking for a longer hike or a section hike along one of Florida’s designated scenic trails.

Sweetwater Trail at Krul Lake

½ mile east of Munson, Florida

Sweetwater Trail is a beautiful, family-friendly hike located at Krul Lake Recreation Area in northwest Florida. This scenic trail follows the Sweetwater River and offers an easy, enjoyable way to experience the area’s natural beauty. The first half mile of the Sweetwater Trail is a handicap-accessible boardwalk that winds through magnolia, oak, and pine forest. Along the way, several overlooks provide great spots to pause, sit back, and enjoy the sound of flowing water. A highlight of the trail is a suspension bridge that spans the Sweetwater River, adding a fun, memorable element for both kids and adults. Near the trail entrance, visitors will also find a historic gristmill, making this stop a nice blend of nature and local history. The trailhead is located off the parking area at Krul Lake Recreation Area, making access easy for families and visitors of all ages.

The Chain of Lakes Nature Trail

Blackwater River State Park, Holt, FL

The Chain of Lakes Nature Trail is an easy, family-friendly hike within Blackwater River State Park. This one-mile trail offers a peaceful walk through river swamp scenery, with access to the Blackwater River and views of a unique chain of oxbow lakes. The trail is well-suited for a short nature outing and provides opportunities to observe wetland plants and wildlife along the way. It’s a great option for hikers looking for an easy walk in a scenic river environment. A parking fee is required. The parking lot is located across the street from the trailhead. Blackwater River State Park is accessed by taking Interstate 10 to Route 87, then traveling east on U.S. Highway 90 and north on Deaton Bridge Road. The park entrance is approximately three miles north.

Fillingim Landing

2801 Jacks Branch Road, Cantonment, FL 32533

Fillingim Landing offers a quiet, scenic hike along the Perdido River within the Perdido River Water Management Area. The primary hike here is the Sand Bar Trail, an easy-to-moderate loop of about 2 miles round-trip. Fillingim Landing also includes a canoe and kayak launch and picnic areas, making it a nice stop for a relaxing river outing.