Day Trips from Fort Lauderdale
← All Fort Lauderdale day tripsDay Trips from Fort Lauderdale: Hiking Trails & Nature
Find the best hiking trails and nature destinations within driving distance of Fort Lauderdale, 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 Fort Lauderdale
Florida National Scenic Trail (Southern Terminus)
FL 34141, USA
Just 1 hr 31 min from Fort Lauderdale, rated 4.8 stars by 196 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area
600 County Hwy 707, Tequesta
Just 1 hr 11 min from Fort Lauderdale, rated 4.8 stars by 229 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.
Savannas Preserve State Park-Hawk's Bluff Trail
Jensen Beach, FL 34957
Just 1 hr 35 min from Fort Lauderdale, rated 4.8 stars by 211 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 2 min from Fort Lauderdale, 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.
Arch Creek East Environmental Preserve (ACE Preserve)
North Miami, FL 33181
Just 40 min from Fort Lauderdale, rated 4.7 stars by 196 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.
Grassy Waters Preserve
West Palm Beach, FL 33412
Just 1 hr 2 min from Fort Lauderdale, rated 4.7 stars by 1,482 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.
Juno Dunes Natural Area
Juno Beach, FL 33408
Just 1 hr 6 min from Fort Lauderdale, rated 4.7 stars by 343 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.
Long Key Natural Area & Nature Center
Davie, FL 33330
Just 25 min from Fort Lauderdale, rated 4.7 stars by 962 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.
Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park
Copeland, FL 34137
Just 1 hr 56 min from Fort Lauderdale, rated 4.6 stars by 699 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.
Lakeside Nature Trail Trailhead
North Miami Beach, FL 33160
Just 28 min from Fort Lauderdale, rated 4.6 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Frenchman's Forest Natural Area
Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410
Just 60 min from Fort Lauderdale, rated 4.6 stars by 431 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.
High Ridge Scrub Natural Area
Lake Worth Corridor, FL 33462
Just 39 min from Fort Lauderdale, rated 4.6 stars by 216 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 Fort Lauderdale
What are the best hiking trails near Fort Lauderdale, FL?
The best hikes near Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale?
Yes. Many state parks and nature preserves near Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale?
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers. Most trails near Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best hiking weather and scenery near Fort Lauderdale. 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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