Thinking about a lifestyle filled with sunshine, palm trees, and weekend adventures that don’t involve fighting traffic on I-95? South Florida isn’t just for beachgoers and brunch lovers—it’s a playground for outdoor enthusiasts who like their recreation with a side of wild beauty.

Whether you’re a longtime local or considering calling this sunny slice of paradise home, you’re in luck: South Florida serves up some of the most engaging and scenic trails just waiting to be explored. Let’s dive into two of the best spring-ready hiking spots and all the outdoor extras you can tack on for a perfect day outside.

1. Apoxee Trail – West Palm Beach

Located within the Grassy Waters Preserve, the Apoxee Trail is a 4.7-mile loop that delivers the kind of terrain variety that makes your legs sore in the best way. One minute you’re walking a raised boardwalk over a wetland, and the next, you’re crunching gravel underfoot as you pass through palm hammocks and open prairies.

What to Expect:

  • A Trail for All Seasons: Apoxee offers a mix of elevated boardwalks, crushed limestone paths, and dirt trails. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure vibe, minus the dragons.

  • Wildlife Central: Don’t be surprised if you spot herons, otters, and a few gators sunbathing like locals at the beach.

  • Water-Friendly Footwear Encouraged: Depending on recent rainfall, the trail can get a little wet, so wear shoes that can handle a splash or two.

  • Eco-Education Vibes: Along the way, you’ll learn a thing or two about South Florida’s unique role in water conservation and habitat preservation.

More Fun While You’re There:

  • Bird watching for the nature buffs

  • Photography for the shutter-happy hikers

  • Occasional guided walks with local nature experts

2. Pine Island Ridge Natural Area – Davie

If you thought South Florida was flat as a pancake, Pine Island Ridge is here to prove you just a little wrong. Standing proud at a whopping 29 feet above sea level, it’s the highest natural elevation in Broward County—and it comes with history and beauty to spare.

What to Expect:

  • History in the Dirt: This ridge was once home to the Tequesta and Seminole tribes, and archaeological sites still dot the area.

  • Lush Tree Canopy: Walk through old live oaks draped in Spanish moss that give the place a primeval, otherworldly feel.

  • Wide Trails: Great for solo hikers, friend groups, or families out for a Sunday walk. Bring the kids, the dogs, or just yourself and some good tunes.

Activities Beyond the Hike:

  • Biking-friendly paths in nearby areas

  • Horseback riding trails for equestrian enthusiasts

  • Shaded picnic spots are perfect for a post-hike break

Trail-Smart Tips for South Florida Hikers

  • Check the Weather: Spring might be mild, but Florida storms can roll in faster than a tourist at a happy hour buffet. Always glance at the forecast before heading out.

  • Hydration is Non-Negotiable: Bring more water than you think you need. Seriously.

  • Dress for the Heat: Breathable clothes, wide-brimmed hats, and sunscreen are your best friends.

  • Mind the Wildlife: You’re visiting their home—respect the locals (especially the ones with teeth).

  • Stay on the Trail: Not just because it’s polite, but because some off-trail areas are sensitive habitats.

Why South Florida is the Perfect Playground for Outdoor Lovers

Spring is when South Florida’s natural side shines. Whether you’re pacing through Apoxee’s wetlands or tracing history along Pine Island Ridge, these trails are proof that living here means always being just a short drive away from your next adventure. Add in biking paths, equestrian routes, and unbeatable weather, and you’ve got more than a place to hike—you’ve got a reason to stay. So, pack up the daypack and make some memories under the sun.

 

Sources: alltrails.com, broward.org
Header Image Source: Apoxee Trail – GMB