Day Trips from Tampa
← All Tampa day tripsDay Trips from Tampa: Hiking Trails & Nature
Find the best hiking trails and nature destinations within driving distance of Tampa, 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 Tampa
Emerson Point Preserve
Palmetto, FL 34221
Just 53 min from Tampa, 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 37 min from Tampa, 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 1 hr 43 min from Tampa, 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 1 hr 58 min from Tampa, 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.
Lake Hiawatha Preserve
Clermont, FL 34711
Just 1 hr 22 min from Tampa, rated 4.8 stars by 575 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 23 min from Tampa, 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.
Savannas Preserve State Park-Hawk's Bluff Trail
Jensen Beach, FL 34957
Just 2 hrs 58 min from Tampa, 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.
Weekiwachee Preserve
Spring Hill, FL 34607
Just 60 min from Tampa, 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 59 min from Tampa, 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.
Crooked River Preserve
Clermont, FL 34711
Just 1 hr 18 min from Tampa, 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.
Moccasin Lake Nature Park
Clearwater, FL 33759
Just 25 min from Tampa, rated 4.7 stars by 1,336 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.
Boyd Hill Nature Preserve
St. Petersburg, FL 33705
Just 32 min from Tampa, rated 4.7 stars by 2,056 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 Tampa
What are the best hiking trails near Tampa, FL?
The best hikes near Tampa 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 Tampa?
Yes. Many state parks and nature preserves near Tampa 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 Tampa?
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers. Most trails near Tampa 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 Tampa?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best hiking weather and scenery near Tampa. 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.
Don't know where to go?
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