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The grueling humidity soaked summer is well behind us which means mosquitos (mostly) leave us alone, and the temps are just right. It only makes sense to embrace the pristine weather and explore all the Jacksonville hiking trails and state parks Jacksonville, FL has to offer.
If you hail from California, Colorado or another state of high elevation these hikes will seem much different, but beautiful in their own way. Florida State Parks are absolutely gorgeous, and you can travel through multiple eco systems, gardens and lush forests.
Dune Ridge Trail on Little Talbot Island
Location
12157 Heckscher Drive
Jacksonville FL 32226
Hours/Fees
8 a.m. to sunset, 365 days a year / $4 for a single person in a vehicle, and $5 for 2 or more (bring cash).
This trail may catch you by surprise with how secluded this Florida State Park feels. The few times I have been, there were no crowds in sight. The beach on this barrier island stretched as far as the eye could see – a 4 mile hike that will bring you through various eco systems. Read my post here for more details on where to begin and parking.
Ravine Gardens State Park
Location
1600 Twigg St.
Palatka FL 32177
Hours/Fees
8 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year / $5 per vehicle
A further drive, and ideal during Azalea season (late December to early March). Located in Palatka, the landscape is different than other trails or hikes I had been to at a Florida State Park, and made for a great day trip to get outside. Due to the different varieties of Azaleas used, they all bloom at various times – and according to the Florida State Parks website, February can often be the best time to go.
Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens
Location
1445 Millcoe Rd.
Jacksonville, FL 32225
Hours/Fees
8AM – 5PM/ $3 (children 3 and under are free). There is a box at the trailhead to put money, or a QR code for paypal/venmo.
The Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens is a 120 acre space with 7 trail options, scenic waterways, and education along the way. Their mission statement is “cultivating a unique environment for recreation, education and inspiration” – something that truly stands out when you visit.
I love that not far from the city you can find this nature refuge – this was on of my favorite trails we have done so far (and kid friendly)!
Castaway Inland Preserve
Location
2921 San Pablo Rd S
Jacksonville, FL 32224
Hours/Fees
Sunrise – Sunset/ Free!
One thing I love about Jacksonville hiking trails, are how different and unique each one is – forest, woods, ocean all encompassing various wildlife. The Castaway Island Preserve is follows the Inter-coastal Waterway nearby to a salt marsh, making this a wonderful place to see different birds and habitats. We have brought our stroller on this trail before, as there is a boardwalk to enjoy the views.
They also have a Kayak launch if you wish to explore the marsh that way, too.
The inter-coastal is simply gorgeous and you are a small drive away from the beach – bring your dogs, lunch for the picnic tables, strollers or simply yourself as you take in peaks of the marshland.
University of North Florida Trails
Location:
1 UNF Drive, Bldg 61, Rm 1200
Jacksonville, FL 32224
Hours/Fees:
Open during daylight hours only, 365 days per year / Free!
This is a great central location if you are looking for some Jacksonville hiking trails. A few path options, there are multiple expansive water look-outs and animals (we saw an armadillo when we did the Blueberry Trail which was a big deal for me as a North Easter). Easy parking and an abundance of nature – perfect for a low-key afternoon.
Anastasia State Park
Location:
300 Anastasia Park Road
St. Augustine FL 32080
Hours/Fees:
8 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year / $8 per vehicle
If you find yourself in the St. Augustine area, Anastasia State Park is incredibly serene. There are so many wonderful Florida State Parks, this being one of them. This makes for an ideal day trip from Jacksonville especially if the weather is just right. The park has a lot to offer as you can hike, kayak or canoe, camp, and so much more. We walked along the beach (admiring the birds and scenery) then hiked the Ancient Dunes Trail for an entirely different setting.
I would love to be on the water next time! They allow canoers and kayakers along Salt Run, the estuarine tidal marsh. You can rent inside the park at the concession.
There are also three picnic areas inside the park if you want to bring your lunch while enjoying the whole day there.
Do you have any favorite Jacksonville hiking trails? Let me know in the comments or over on Instagram!
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