Day Trips from Clearwater
← All Clearwater day tripsDay Trips from Clearwater: Hiking Trails & Nature
Find the best hiking trails and nature destinations within driving distance of Clearwater, FL. From easy lakeside walks to challenging ridge hikes, these day trip trails deliver real scenery without the plane ticket. Drive times, ratings, and trail info included.
12 hiking trails near Clearwater
Emerson Point Preserve
Palmetto, FL 34221
Just 58 min from Clearwater, rated 4.8 stars by 1,629 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Brooker Creek Preserve & Environmental Education Center
Tarpon Springs, FL 34688
Just 40 min from Clearwater, rated 4.8 stars by 1,209 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Black Bear Wilderness Area
Sanford, FL 32771
Just 2 hrs 13 min from Clearwater, rated 4.8 stars by 969 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve
Fort Myers, FL 33966
Just 2 hrs 10 min from Clearwater, rated 4.8 stars by 4,476 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Weedon Island Preserve
St. Petersburg, FL 33702
Just 34 min from Clearwater, rated 4.8 stars by 3,589 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Crooked River Preserve
Clermont, FL 34711
Just 1 hr 47 min from Clearwater, rated 4.7 stars by 199 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Weekiwachee Preserve
Spring Hill, FL 34607
Just 1 hr 8 min from Clearwater, rated 4.7 stars by 638 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Chassahowitzka Wildlife Management Area
Brooksville, FL 34614
Just 1 hr 15 min from Clearwater, rated 4.7 stars by 836 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park
Okeechobee, FL 34972
Just 2 hrs 57 min from Clearwater, rated 4.7 stars by 961 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Wilderness Conservation Park Morris Bridge Site
Thonotosassa, FL 33592
Just 52 min from Clearwater, rated 4.6 stars by 756 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Lower Hillsborough Wildlife Management Area
Thonotosassa, FL 33592
Just 53 min from Clearwater, rated 4.6 stars by 3,598 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Crystal River Preserve State Park
Crystal River, FL 34428
Just 1 hr 40 min from Clearwater, rated 4.6 stars by 614 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking Trails Day Trips from Clearwater
What are the best hiking trails near Clearwater, FL?
The best hikes near Clearwater range from easy nature preserve loops to challenging state park trails with waterfalls, overlooks, and canyon scenery. Check the cards above for top-rated options with real drive times.
Are there easy hikes near Clearwater?
Yes. Many state parks and nature preserves near Clearwater offer well-maintained, beginner-friendly trails under 3 miles. Look for "Nature" tagged destinations above for the most accessible options.
What should I bring on a day hike from Clearwater?
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers. Most trails near Clearwater are well-marked but cell service can be spotty in state parks. Download trail maps before you leave and wear sturdy shoes.
When is the best time to hike near Clearwater?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best hiking weather and scenery near Clearwater. Fall foliage is spectacular at most destinations. Summer works but can be hot and buggy. Winter hiking is possible at many parks with proper gear.
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