Discover the District’s Hiking Gems
- Starkey Wilderness Preserve (Pasco County, FL): Explore exemplary pine flatwoods designated by the Florida Natural Areas Inventory on paved or at grade trails. Other ecosystems of interest include sandhill and portions of the Anclote and Pithlachascotee Rivers. Starkey Wilderness Preserve is cooperatively managed between Pasco County and the District.
- Green Swamp Wilderness Preserve (Lake, Pasco, Polk and Sumter counties, FL): Hike along the Florida National Scenic Trail that traverses through the East and West Tracts of the Preserve. Approximately 31 miles of the 1,500-mile Florida National Scenic Trail run through the property and includes several campsites along the way. The trail crosses prairies and sandhills and meanders beneath tall pines. The District partners with the Florida Trail Association to maintain this trail.
- Flying Eagle Preserve (Citrus County, FL): Walk through diverse ecosystems ranging from hardwood forests and pine flatwoods to unique sawgrass marshes that merge with the Withlacoochee River. The trails at this location are at grade.
- Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve (Hillsborough County, FL): This property contains one of the largest premier contiguous recreation areas in Hillsborough County. Hikers can explore a wide variety of ecosystems including trails that are paved, at grade and boardwalks that meander through wetland and upland areas. Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve is cooperatively managed between Hillsborough County and the District.
- Edward Chance Reserve (Manatee County, FL): Traverse at-grade trails through pine flatwoods, scrub, freshwater marsh and hardwood hammocks. Hikers may be able to observe the state and federally threatened Florida Scrub Jay during their adventure.
- Deep Creek Preserve (DeSoto County, FL): Explore at-grade trails through longleaf pines and a diverse mixture of native shrubs and herbs. Hikers have the opportunity to traverse along the freshwater marshes and wet prairies that dot the landscape.
Why Hike These Lands?
The District’s conservation lands are great places to enjoy the outdoors and see Florida’s natural beauty. Each site lets you connect with nature, take in beautiful views and explore amazing ecosystems up close.
Enjoy the Outdoors This February
Florida Hiking Month is a great time to enjoy being outside during the nicest weather of the year. February’s cooler temperatures and clear skies make it perfect for hiking, exploring trails and seeing Florida’s natural beauty. Whether you walk through the Green Swamp East Tract’s wetlands or the sandhills of the Flying Eagle Preserve, each trail offers a fun outdoor adventure.
Plan Your Adventure
Ready to hit the trails? Visit the District’s recreational site page to find detailed information about each location including trail maps and access details. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, there’s a trail for everyone.
Take the Next Step in Enjoying the Outdoors
As you hike, remember to leave the trails as beautiful as you found them. Pack out all your trash and consider picking up any litter you see along the way. Sharing your experiences and encouraging others to explore Florida’s trails helps foster a love for the outdoors.
Get Involved
Celebrate Florida Hiking Month by exploring the District’s lands and making memories along the trails. Share your hiking adventures on social media using the hashtag #FloridaHikingMonth and inspire others to enjoy Florida’s natural treasures. Let’s work together to keep these areas beautiful for everyone to enjoy.