Spring in Florida is the perfect time to hit the trails—cooler mornings, blooming flowers, and just enough warmth to remind you summer is on its way. Whether you're looking for a scenic jog through Florida landscape or a challenging run with varied terrain, Florida has some incredible trail running routes. Here are the top five you won’t want to miss this season!
1. BLACK BEAR WILDERNESS LOOP TRAIL - SANFORD
Located in the Black Bear Wilderness Area, this 7.1-mile loop offers a true wild Florida experience. The boardwalks and dirt paths take you through swamps and thick forests, giving you a challenging yet rewarding run. This site’s approximately 1,600 acres in northwest Seminole County feature a variety of wetland habitats, Wet Prairie, Hydric Hammock and Cypress Swamps which form an abundance of habitat diversity which are home to wildlife like the white tailed deer and swallow tailed kite. Spring is the ideal time to visit before Florida summer heat takes over.
2. OLETA RIVER STATE PARK TRAILS - MIAMI
For those in South Florida, Oleta River State Park provides a mix of paved and off-road trails surrounded by mangroves and waterways.This Sate Park offers a quiet refuge from the Miami metro area. The park’s trails range from beginner-friendly to more technical, making it a great spot for all levels of runners. Walkers and joggers can enjoy three miles of paved trails that offer scenic views of Biscayne Bay’s estuaries through mangrove forests and sea grapes. Plus, the ocean breeze keeps things cool!
3. ALAFIA RIVER STATE PARK TRAILS - LITHIA
Alafia River State Park is known for its unique elevation changes, thanks to its history as a former phosphate mine. The result? Fun, rolling terrain that provides a great challenge for trail runners looking to mix up their routine. Runners and walkers can explore 20 miles of hilly trails through forests and flatwoods, stopping to relax and admire the park's tranquil lakes.The rugged landscape and shaded paths make this an ideal springtime destination.
4. MYAKKA RIVER STATE PARK TRAILS - SARASOTA
Spring is the best time to run at Myakka River State Park, as the landscape bursts with wildflowers and wildlife. The Myakka River is Florida’s first state-designated wild and scenic river, and it flows through a vast expanse of unspoiled wetlands, prairies, hammocks, and pinelands that make up Myakka River State Park.The park offers a variety of trails, from easy 2-mile loops to longer, more adventurous routes. Keep an eye out for deer, birds, and even the occasional alligator (from a safe distance)!
5. FRED MARQUIS PINELLAS TRAIL - ST. PETERSBURG TO TARPON SPRINGS
Stretching over 40 miles, the Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail is one of Florida’s most well-known multi-use trails, offering a scenic and well-maintained path for runners, cyclists, and walkers alike. The trail passes through a variety of landscapes, from vibrant cityscapes in downtown St. Pete to quiet, tree-lined sections in Palm Harbor and Tarpon Springs. With access points throughout Pinellas County, you can start your run from various locations, making it easy to choose your ideal distance. Built along an abandoned railway corridor, this rail-trail provides a smooth, paved surface that’s ideal for long-distance running, tempo runs, or a casual jog.
Spring won’t last forever, so take advantage of Florida’s best running weather while you can! Whether you're looking for a new challenge or just want to soak in nature, these trails offer some of the best experiences for runners of all levels. Test out these beautiful Florida running trails!
