Best Hiking Trails In Miami-Dade County | Hikers University

Not many people know that Miami-Dade has some of the best trails in the country. Here are the top hiking trails in Miami-Dade County. 

All hikers like their adventures to be surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes. 

The best hiking trails in Miami-Dade County include Anhinga Trail, Gumbo Limbo Trail, Baptist Jogging Path, Patch of Heaven Sanctuary, Winston Park Nature Center. Each of these has the potential to provide hikers with an amazing and memorable experience. 

I have also detailed some useful information, such as the weather conditions, length, available facilities, etc., of each of the hikes. 

As an avid hiker, I have been to some of these trails and found them worth mentioning. The rest of them qualified for this list after I screened them through extensive and careful research. 

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Best Hiking Trails In Miami-Dade County

Anhinga Trail

Anhinga Trail is a beautiful hiking trail located in Miami-Dade County, Florida. This popular trail features lush vegetation, native wildlife, and stunning views of the Everglades. The trail is approximately 1.5 miles long and provides plenty of opportunities to see alligators, birds, and other wildlife up close. 

There are several facilities along the Anhinga Trail that make it an enjoyable experience for all hikers. There are restrooms, picnic tables, and a boardwalk that allows visitors to get even closer to the natural beauty of the Everglades. Visitors can also rent canoes and kayaks at the Anhinga Trail ranger station. 

If you're looking for an adventure in South Florida, be sure to check out Anhinga Trail. It's an unforgettable experience that you won't soon forget! 

Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park is a national park in the U.S. state of Florida that protects the southern tip of the Florida peninsula, including South Florida's world-famous Everglades. The park covers 1.5 million acres (2,300 square miles) and is the third-largest national park in the contiguous United States after Yellowstone and Death Valley. 

Everglades National Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including alligators, crocodiles, snakes, turtles, birds, and fish. The park also contains a large number of rare or endangered species, including the Florida panther and the American Crocodile. 

The Everglades are a network of wetlands and forests that stretch for more than 100 miles (160 km) from central Florida to the southern tip of the state. The park is divided into two sections, the wetland "River of Grass" in the south and the dryer upland regions in the north. 

The River of Grass is a slow-moving river that flows southward through the Everglades. It is home to a variety of plant and animal life, including many rare and endangered species. The northern upland region is home to pine forests, prairies, and cypress swamps.

Everglades National Park was established in 1947 to protect the Everglades from development and destruction. Today, the park receives more than one million visitors each year. Visitors can enjoy activities such as camping, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, and bird watching. The park also offers ranger-led programs and tours. 

It is accessible from the cities of Miami and Fort Lauderdale via U.S. Highway 1 (the "Overseas Highway"). The park is open year-round, 24 hours a day. Admission is $30 per vehicle or $15 per person for pedestrians and bicyclists. Camping is available at several campgrounds within the park. 

Bear Cut Preserve

Bear Cut Preserve is a beautiful nature preserve located in Miami-Dade County, Florida. The preserve is home to many different species of plants and animals, as well as a variety of hiking trails. 

The total length of the trails at Bear Cut Preserve is approximately 4 miles (6 kilometers). There are also a few facilities available for visitors, including a picnic area and a restroom. 

The history of Bear Cut Preserve dates back to the early 1900s when the area was first set aside as a wildlife refuge. In recent years, the preserve has become a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers alike. If you're looking for a place to enjoy some time outdoors, Bear Cut Preserve is definitely worth a visit! 

Gumbo Limbo Trail

Gumbo Limbo Trail is a hiking trail in Miami-Dade County, Florida. The trail is approximately 2 miles long and features several different kinds of terrain, including sand dunes, wetlands, and woodlands. There are also several facilities along the trail, including restrooms, picnic tables, and a playground. 

The history of the Gumbo Limbo Trail dates back to the early 1900s when the area was used as a military training ground. In the 1970s, the Miami-Dade County Parks Department began developing the area into a park. The trail was officially opened to the public in 2003. 

If you're looking for a place to hike in Miami-Dade County, Gumbo Limbo Trail is a great option. The trail is relatively short and easy to hike, and there are plenty of facilities along the way. So grab your hiking shoes and head on over to Gumbo Limbo Trail! 

Hattie Bauer Hammock Park

Hattie Bauer Hammock Park is a great place to enjoy a hike in Miami-Dade County. The park features a total length of over two miles of hiking trails, making it the perfect spot to explore the area's natural beauty. The park also offers a variety of facilities and information kiosks, making it a great place to learn about the area's history and ecology. 

Sawgrass Trailhead of Atlantic Blvd

Hiking at Sawgrass Trailhead of Atlantic Blvd in Miami-Dade County is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors. The trailhead features a total length of 0.75 miles (1.21 kilometers), with facilities including restrooms, water fountains, picnic tables, and benches. Hikers can also find information about the history of the area at the trailhead.

Baptist Jogging Path

Baptist Jogging Path is a hiking trail located in Miami-Dade County, Florida. The trail is approximately 3 miles long and features several different types of terrain, including grassy fields, woods, and wetlands. There are also several jogging paths and fitness stations along the way. 

The trail is open to the public from sunrise to sunset, and there is no charge to use it. However, there are some rules that hikers must follow, such as staying on the trail and not disturbing the wildlife.

The history of the Baptist Jogging Path dates back to the early 1990s, when the Miami-Dade County Parks and Recreation Department began planning for a system of jogging paths throughout the county. Construction on the path began in 1995 and was completed in 1996. 

Since then, the path has been a popular spot for both locals and visitors alike. In recent years, the trail has undergone some renovations, including the addition of new fitness stations and picnic areas. 

If you're looking for a place to hike or jog in Miami-Dade County, Baptist Jogging Path is a great option. Be sure to follow the rules while you're on the trail and enjoy your time in nature! 

Patch of Heaven Sanctuary

If you are looking to enjoy some hiking in Miami-Dade County, then be sure to check out Patch of Heaven Sanctuary! This beautiful nature preserve is perfect for a leisurely hike, offering scenic views and plenty of opportunities to see local wildlife. 

Total length: The total length of the trails at Patch of Heaven Sanctuary is just over 3 miles. 

Features: The sanctuary features a variety of native plants and animals, as well as a butterfly garden. Hikers may also encounter some wild hogs along the trails. 

Facilities: There are no facilities at Patch of Heaven Sanctuary, so hikers should come prepared with their own water and snacks. 

Information: For more information about Patch of Heaven Sanctuary, including directions and hours, please visit the Miami-Dade County Parks website. 

History: Patch of Heaven Sanctuary was founded in 2004 by local residents who wanted to create a space for people to enjoy nature and learn about the importance of conservation. The sanctuary is currently managed by the Miami-Dade County Parks Department. 

Alligator Alley

Hiking at Alligator Alley is a great way to explore nature in Miami-Dade County. The total length of the hike is about 2 miles, and there are plenty of facilities along the way. 

A great thing about Alligator Alley is that it is also a great place for bird watching. There are many different types of birds that can be seen along the trail. 

The history of Alligator Alley is also very interesting. The area was once home to many different Native American tribes. 

Stunson Nature Trail

Stunson Nature Trail offers amazing views that succeed, more often than not, in taking away the breath of tourists that arrive there! This beautiful nature trail is perfect for a leisurely hike or a more challenging walk. 

Features: 

- Total length: 4 miles 

- Facilities: restrooms, picnic tables, benches, water fountains 

- Information: interpretive signs along the trail provide information about the local flora and fauna 

History: 

Stunson Nature Trail was created in response to the growing popularity of hiking in Miami-Dade County. In order to provide residents with a place to enjoy the outdoors, the county decided to create a nature trail. The trail is named after Walter Stunson, who was a major supporter of the project. 

Cypress Creek Greenway

Cypress Creek Greenway is a great option! This scenic spot features hiking trails of varying lengths, so you can choose the one that's right for you. And, if you're looking for a challenge, there are longer trails available too. 

Cypress Creek Greenway is also a great place to take in the natural beauty of Miami-Dade County. So whether you're looking for a short walk or a longer hike, make sure to check out Cypress Creek Greenway! 

Crystal Lake Sand Pine Scrub Natural Area

Crystal Lake Sand Pine Scrub Natural Area is a great place to hike in Miami-Dade County. The total length of the trails is about 3 miles, and the scenery is beautiful. The area is home to many different plants and animals, including sand pines, scrub oaks, and gopher tortoises. 

There are also several bird species that can be seen in the area. Hiking in the natural area is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors. 

Winston Park Nature Center

Winston Park Nature Center is a great place to go hiking in Miami-Dade County. The nature center features scenic beauty, with a total length of over 3 miles of hiking trails. Hiking at Winston Park is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors. 

The nature center also has a variety of information about the plants and animals that live in the area. If you are looking for a great place to go hiking, Winston Park Nature Center is the perfect place. 

Hilton Road Greenway

If you're looking for a scenic hike near Los Angeles, look no further than Hilton Road Greenway. This trail offers stunning views of the surrounding area and is a great option for both beginner and experienced hikers alike. Here's everything you need to know about Hilton Road Greenway.

Hilton Road Greenway is located just north of Los Angeles, in the San Gabriel Mountains. The trailhead is easily accessible from the 210 freeway, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. The trail itself is 3 miles long, out-and-back, and relatively easy to follow. 

What makes Hilton Road Greenway so special is its scenery. The trail winds through dense forest cover, offering hikers respite from the heat of the sun. In addition, the trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. 

Military Trail Natural Area

Military Trail Natural Area is a beautiful spot for hiking and exploring in Miami-Dade County. The area is home to a variety of plant and animal species, and there are plenty of opportunities to see wildlife. Military Trail Natural Area is also a great place to get some exercise and fresh air. 

There are miles of trails to explore, and the scenery is simply gorgeous. If you're looking for a place to hike in Miami-Dade County, Military Trail Natural Area is definitely worth a visit.

About THE AUTHOR

Peter Brooks

Peter Brooks

I’m a hiker, backpacker, and general outdoor enthusiast. I started hiking out of college while working for the National Forest Service, and have been hiking ever since. I’ve been solo hiking and leading hiking groups for two decades and have completed hundreds of small hikes and some majorones such as the Appalachian Train and the Pacific Crest Trail, and hiked on four continents. I’d love to share some of my insight with you.

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