When people think about epic thru-hikes in the United States, one that might remain on the backburner is the lesser-known Florida Trail. This thru-hike remains one of the most dangerous hikes in Florida and is not for the faint of heart. But what’s surprising is that so many hikers and even Florida residents haven’t even heard of the hike! At over 1,000 miles from Big Cypress National Preserve to Fort Pickens at Gulf Islands National Seashore, learn all about the most dangerous hike in Florida.
The Florida National Scenic Trail, also known as the Florida Trail, is a thru-hike that remains relatively under the radar. The hike starts at the Oasis Visitor Center, then disappears into the Florida sawgrass for over 1,000 miles.
Flickr Jay Parker
The Florida Trail garners the least amount of attention of any of the thru-hikes in the country, yet it remains one of the most dangerous.
Google Bryan Lindenberger
Many parts of the trail can end up being flooded, which is one of the more dangerous aspects. When water levels rise, from the rivers to the swamps, then many parts of the trail will be difficult to pass through.
Google Bryan Lindenberger
In addition, since the Florida Trail isn’t as heavily used as other thru-hikes, like the Pacific Crest of the Appalachian Trail, the footpath may not be as obvious. If you lose the blazes on the path, then it’s easy to get lost.
Google Elizabeth Migitz
Another reason why the Florida Trail is so dangerous involves the Florida weather. Hiking in an environment that can get very hot, with temperatures in the 90s, can bring trouble in terms of heat exhaustion and having enough water. This is the main reason why this thru-hike is planned from October through April only.
Flickr Diana Robinson
Also, what some hikers don’t think about is the potential for hypothermia, too. Even in Florida, temperatures can drop significantly overnight, and hikers can wake up to frozen water and frost on their tents.
Google Bryan Lindenberger
The Florida National Scenic Trail is a real treasure for the state, as one of only 11 National Scenic Trails in the entire country.
Flickr Ianqui Doodle
But just make sure that you know of the dangers and potential disasters that can occur on this trail before you begin your trek.
Google Bryan Lindenberger
To locate where part of The Florida Trail and how far it is from you, click here to open the map.
Google Maps
So, what do you think about The Florida Trail? Have you heard about this dangerous hike before? Do you agree that it’s one of the most dangerous hikes in Florida? Share with us your thoughts in the comments section! Or if you’re looking for more information about this thru-hike, then check out the Florida National Scenic Trail website.
Flickr Jay Parker
Google Bryan Lindenberger
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Flickr Diana Robinson
Flickr Ianqui Doodle
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The OIYS Visitor Center
most dangerous hikes in Florida January 02, 2022 Beth C. What are the most beautiful hiking trails in Florida? Now that you’ve learned all about the Florida Trail, one of the most dangerous hikes in Florida, it’s time to dive into some other remarkable hiking spots in the Sunshine State. Whether you prefer short-and-sweet trails or something challenging and invigorating, you’re bound to find a memorable hiking experience in Florida. One of the most beautiful hiking destinations in the state is Ocala National Forest. Nicknamed The Big Scrub, this destination is home to 360,000 acres of breathtaking landscapes. In short, it’s a hiking enthusiast’s dream come true. From beautiful ponds to cypress and gum swamps, this landmark does not lack variety. Next up on the list would be Withlacoochee State Forest. It’s been ranked among the “10 Coolest Places You’ve Never Been in North America” by World Wildlife Fund, and it certainly deserves a spot on your radar. It’s here you’ll find beautiful scenery and even caves to explore. Some additional hiking destinations in Florida include Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, Little Talbot Island, Big Shoals State Park, Bulow Creek State Park, Little Manatee River State Park, Torreya State Park, Big Cypress National Preserve, Osceola National Forest, Collier-Seminole State Park, and Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park. What are the top natural wonders in Florida? Florida is an outdoor lover’s paradise, offering everything from swamplands to coastal views, dense forests, caves, rivers, and everything in between. We’re so inspired by Florida’s natural scenery, in fact, that we put together a road trip that will lead you to the best natural wonders. Some of the destinations along the way include Falling Waters State Park in Chipley, Florida Caverns State Park, Torreya State Park, Devil’s Den, Ocala National Forest, Blowing Rocks Preserve, Everglades National Park, and John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Learn more about the full itinerary when you read our previous article: This Natural Wonders Road Trip Will Show You Florida Like You’ve Never Seen It Before.
The OIYS Visitor Center
most dangerous hikes in Florida
January 02, 2022
Beth C.
What are the most beautiful hiking trails in Florida? Now that you’ve learned all about the Florida Trail, one of the most dangerous hikes in Florida, it’s time to dive into some other remarkable hiking spots in the Sunshine State. Whether you prefer short-and-sweet trails or something challenging and invigorating, you’re bound to find a memorable hiking experience in Florida. One of the most beautiful hiking destinations in the state is Ocala National Forest. Nicknamed The Big Scrub, this destination is home to 360,000 acres of breathtaking landscapes. In short, it’s a hiking enthusiast’s dream come true. From beautiful ponds to cypress and gum swamps, this landmark does not lack variety. Next up on the list would be Withlacoochee State Forest. It’s been ranked among the “10 Coolest Places You’ve Never Been in North America” by World Wildlife Fund, and it certainly deserves a spot on your radar. It’s here you’ll find beautiful scenery and even caves to explore. Some additional hiking destinations in Florida include Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, Little Talbot Island, Big Shoals State Park, Bulow Creek State Park, Little Manatee River State Park, Torreya State Park, Big Cypress National Preserve, Osceola National Forest, Collier-Seminole State Park, and Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park. What are the top natural wonders in Florida? Florida is an outdoor lover’s paradise, offering everything from swamplands to coastal views, dense forests, caves, rivers, and everything in between. We’re so inspired by Florida’s natural scenery, in fact, that we put together a road trip that will lead you to the best natural wonders. Some of the destinations along the way include Falling Waters State Park in Chipley, Florida Caverns State Park, Torreya State Park, Devil’s Den, Ocala National Forest, Blowing Rocks Preserve, Everglades National Park, and John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Learn more about the full itinerary when you read our previous article: This Natural Wonders Road Trip Will Show You Florida Like You’ve Never Seen It Before.
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
Now that you’ve learned all about the Florida Trail, one of the most dangerous hikes in Florida, it’s time to dive into some other remarkable hiking spots in the Sunshine State. Whether you prefer short-and-sweet trails or something challenging and invigorating, you’re bound to find a memorable hiking experience in Florida. One of the most beautiful hiking destinations in the state is Ocala National Forest. Nicknamed The Big Scrub, this destination is home to 360,000 acres of breathtaking landscapes. In short, it’s a hiking enthusiast’s dream come true. From beautiful ponds to cypress and gum swamps, this landmark does not lack variety. Next up on the list would be Withlacoochee State Forest. It’s been ranked among the “10 Coolest Places You’ve Never Been in North America” by World Wildlife Fund, and it certainly deserves a spot on your radar. It’s here you’ll find beautiful scenery and even caves to explore. Some additional hiking destinations in Florida include Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, Little Talbot Island, Big Shoals State Park, Bulow Creek State Park, Little Manatee River State Park, Torreya State Park, Big Cypress National Preserve, Osceola National Forest, Collier-Seminole State Park, and Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park.
What are the top natural wonders in Florida?
Florida is an outdoor lover’s paradise, offering everything from swamplands to coastal views, dense forests, caves, rivers, and everything in between. We’re so inspired by Florida’s natural scenery, in fact, that we put together a road trip that will lead you to the best natural wonders. Some of the destinations along the way include Falling Waters State Park in Chipley, Florida Caverns State Park, Torreya State Park, Devil’s Den, Ocala National Forest, Blowing Rocks Preserve, Everglades National Park, and John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Learn more about the full itinerary when you read our previous article: This Natural Wonders Road Trip Will Show You Florida Like You’ve Never Seen It Before.
