Naples, FL, is often recognized for its beaches, shopping, and arts scene. But the city also offers plenty of natural beauty, with a range of trails that cut through preserves, mangrove swamps, and pine flatwoods. Whether you're an avid hiker or just looking for a casual walk, this guide highlights some of the best spots for hiking in Naples, FL. These trails provide a great way to experience the area's diverse ecosystems and escape the hustle of everyday life. From short, easy walks to more challenging hikes, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
1. Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary
Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is one of Naples's most iconic natural areas. Managed by the National Audubon Society, this 13,000-acre preserve is a vital habitat for numerous species, including the rare ghost orchid and the endangered wood stork. The sanctuary is best known for its 2.25-mile boardwalk trail, which takes visitors through four distinct environments: pine flatwoods, wet prairie, cypress forest, and marsh.
The boardwalk is in good condition and suitable for hikers of all levels. As you walk the trail, you'll hear the sounds of birds and other wildlife. Interpretive signs along the way offer information about the local plants and animals. Wildlife, including alligators, deer, and various bird species, is most active in the early morning and late afternoon.
The boardwalk is in good condition and suitable for hikers of all levels. As you walk the trail, you'll hear the sounds of birds and other wildlife. Interpretive signs along the way offer information about the local plants and animals. Wildlife, including alligators, deer, and various bird species, is most active in the early morning and late afternoon.
2. CREW Bird Rookery Swamp Trail
The CREW Bird Rookery Swamp is part of the Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed, a massive conservation area spanning over 60,000 acres. The Bird Rookery Swamp Trail offers a more rugged hiking experience compared to the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, with over 12 miles of trails that include a mix of old tram roads and boardwalks.
The main loop trail is 4.5 miles long and takes hikers through various landscapes, including marshes, cypress swamps, and wet prairies. The trail is known for its abundant wildlife, especially alligators, so keep an eye out as you walk. The trails can be muddy during the wet season, so be prepared for some adventure. Despite the potential challenges, the stunning views and the chance to see Florida's wildlife up close make this trail well worth the effort.
The main loop trail is 4.5 miles long and takes hikers through various landscapes, including marshes, cypress swamps, and wet prairies. The trail is known for its abundant wildlife, especially alligators, so keep an eye out as you walk. The trails can be muddy during the wet season, so be prepared for some adventure. Despite the potential challenges, the stunning views and the chance to see Florida's wildlife up close make this trail well worth the effort.
3. Gordon River Greenway
For those looking for a more urban hiking experience, the Gordon River Greenway offers a scenic escape within Naples's city limits. This 2.5-mile paved trail winds along the Gordon River, providing a tranquil setting for walking, jogging, or cycling.
The Greenway features boardwalks, bridges, and elevated walkways trailing through mangroves and tidal creeks. Along the way, you'll find several observation points where you can stop and take in the view. The Greenway is also home to abundant wildlife, including river otters, turtles, and various bird species. The trail is well-shaded in many areas, making it a pleasant walk even on warmer days.
The Greenway features boardwalks, bridges, and elevated walkways trailing through mangroves and tidal creeks. Along the way, you'll find several observation points where you can stop and take in the view. The Greenway is also home to abundant wildlife, including river otters, turtles, and various bird species. The trail is well-shaded in many areas, making it a pleasant walk even on warmer days.
4. Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park
Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park is a coastal paradise located just north of Naples. While the park is primarily known for its beautiful beach, it also offers a short but scenic hiking trail through coastal hammocks and mangrove habitats.
The park's nature trail is a 0.25-mile loop that provides a quick introduction to the area's natural landscapes. Though short, the trail offers a peaceful retreat from the beach crowds, with opportunities to see native plants and animals. After your hike, you can enjoy a swim in the Gulf or explore the tidal pools at the pass.
The park's nature trail is a 0.25-mile loop that provides a quick introduction to the area's natural landscapes. Though short, the trail offers a peaceful retreat from the beach crowds, with opportunities to see native plants and animals. After your hike, you can enjoy a swim in the Gulf or explore the tidal pools at the pass.
5. Picayune Strand State Forest
For a more adventurous hiking experience, head to Picayune Strand State Forest. This 78,000-acre forest is part of the larger Big Cypress Basin and offers over 22 miles of hiking trails that take you deep into the heart of the Florida wilderness.
The forest's trails vary in length and difficulty, from short nature walks to longer, more challenging hikes. The Sabal Palm Trail is a popular choice for a moderate hike, covering 3.2 miles through pine flatwoods and cypress strands. For those looking for a more extended adventure, the Belle Meade Tract offers a network of trails that can be combined for longer hikes. The forest is rich in wildlife, including black bears, panthers, and a variety of bird species.
The forest's trails vary in length and difficulty, from short nature walks to longer, more challenging hikes. The Sabal Palm Trail is a popular choice for a moderate hike, covering 3.2 miles through pine flatwoods and cypress strands. For those looking for a more extended adventure, the Belle Meade Tract offers a network of trails that can be combined for longer hikes. The forest is rich in wildlife, including black bears, panthers, and a variety of bird species.
6. Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve
Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve is a vast 110,000-acre reserve located just south of Naples. The reserve is a haven for nature lovers, with trails that offer a glimpse into Florida's coastal ecosystems.
The reserve features several short trails that are perfect for a quick hike. The Hidden Lake Trail is a 1.9-mile loop that takes you through coastal scrub and along the edge of a brackish lake, offering opportunities to see a variety of bird species. The Upland Trail is another short hike, offering a 0.75-mile loop through pine flatwoods. The trails are relatively easy, making them suitable for all skill levels.
The reserve features several short trails that are perfect for a quick hike. The Hidden Lake Trail is a 1.9-mile loop that takes you through coastal scrub and along the edge of a brackish lake, offering opportunities to see a variety of bird species. The Upland Trail is another short hike, offering a 0.75-mile loop through pine flatwoods. The trails are relatively easy, making them suitable for all skill levels.
Wrapping Up Your Hiking Adventure in Naples, FL
Hiking in Naples, FL, offers a unique opportunity to explore the area's natural beauty beyond its well-known beaches and urban attractions. Whether you're looking for a short, easy walk or a more challenging hike, the trails around Naples cater to all levels of outdoor enthusiasts. These scenic paths provide a chance to connect with nature and discover the diverse ecosystems that make this region special. So, lace up your hiking boots, choose a trail, and enjoy the outdoor experiences Naples has to offer.
If you're looking to make Naples, FL, your home, let Mike Taranto and the Taranto Team guide you through the process. With their deep knowledge of the local market and commitment to personalized service, they are your trusted partners in finding the perfect property. Whether you're buying, selling, or investing, the Taranto Team is dedicated to helping you achieve your real estate goals. Contact Mike Taranto today to start your journey toward finding your dream home in Naples.
If you're looking to make Naples, FL, your home, let Mike Taranto and the Taranto Team guide you through the process. With their deep knowledge of the local market and commitment to personalized service, they are your trusted partners in finding the perfect property. Whether you're buying, selling, or investing, the Taranto Team is dedicated to helping you achieve your real estate goals. Contact Mike Taranto today to start your journey toward finding your dream home in Naples.
