The Marvelous 2.9-Mile Trail In Florida Leads Adventurers To A Little-Known Overlook
Marisa Roman
Author
You might not think Florida is a premier hiking state, but we’re here to prove otherwise. Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park is a natural wonderland filled with things to do and see and one of the best places to get outdoors and hike. The La Chua Trail in Gainesville is an easy out-and-back hiking trail that offers some of the best views in the park. All you need to do is hike to one of the best observation decks in Florida and enjoy!
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Have you ever been to Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park before? How about a hike along the La Chua Trail in Gainseville? This is one of the coolest observation decks in Florida, hands down. If you want to know more about this short and sweet trail, including current weather conditions, check out the Florida State Parks website.
We have you covered if you need more convincing as to why you should head out to Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park. This is one of the only state parks in Florida to watch wild horses roam. But you can also tag this short and sweet hike onto a weekend hitting up some off the best hikes in Florida! (Just don’t forget a GPS app!)
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La Chua Trail In Gainseville
What are some must-do hikes in Florida?
While it might be known for its beaches, wildlife, and the Everglades, Florida is actually a fantastic destination for all types of hiking enthusiasts as it offers a variety of trails with diverse scenery and difficulty levels. Some of the most iconic and popular hiking trails in Florida are:
- Anhinga Trail: This 0.8-mile boardwalk and paved trail in Everglades National Park is one of the best places to observe the rich biodiversity of Florida's wetlands, including alligators, turtles, herons, egrets, and anhingas. The trail is easy and accessible for all visitors and is particularly kid-friendly. Bonus: hikers will find a waterfall to enjoy too!
- Black Bear Wilderness Area Trail: This 7-mile loop trail in Sanford follows the floodplain forests along the St. Johns River, where you can spot black bears, alligators, and other wildlife.
- Florida Trail: Lockwood to Barr: This 9.4-mile out-and-back trail in Ocala National Forest is a scenic and secluded hike that takes you through sand pine scrub, hardwood swamp, and along the Ocklawaha River. The trail is moderately challenging and offers a chance to see deer, turkeys, and other wildlife.
- Kolokee Loop Trail: This 5-mile loop trail in Geneva is part of the Florida National Scenic Trail, which runs over 1,000 miles throughout the state. The trail passes through pine forests, oak hammocks, and along the Little Big Econ River, where you can enjoy the views of rapids and sandbars.
- Wekiwa Springs Volksmarch Trail: This 5.8-mile loop trail in Apopka explores the Wekiwa Springs State Park, which features a natural spring, a river, and a variety of habitats. The trail is easy and well-maintained, and you can also enjoy swimming, kayaking, or camping in the park as well.
With Florida's unpredictable weather patterns, note that some trails may be closed during certain times of the year. Always double-check before heading out!