3 Best Hiking Trails in St Petersburg, FL

“Weedon Island Preserve is a state-protected area comprising upland and coastal ecosystems along Old Tampa Bay's western shoreline. The park is over 3,000 acres and features more than four miles of hiking trails, including a boardwalk and paved and natural trails. The trail has a 4.3-mile loop that takes paddlers through tunnels of mangroves, salt ponds, and the bay. The trail's elevation gain is 9 feet and loop type. The time required to complete the entire trail is 1 hour and 13 minutes. Weedon Island Preserve offers an array of recreational opportunities for visitors. Hiking is a common past for tourists who visit the preserve. Visit the Education Center and try out a backpack filled with field guides and events. Picnic areas scattered along the trail allow visitors to relax and appreciate their surroundings under the shade of towering oaks. The education program at the center provides interpretive hikes, educational presentations, exhibits, and special events.

UNIQUE FACTS:
• Picnic Shelters Available
• Handicap Accessible
• Well-maintained trails.”

Read more

“Sawgrass Lake Park is a renowned 390-acre park providing school and community organizations with unique learning opportunities. The park has miles of elevated boardwalk winds across a plantation of maples, and an observation tower offers a panoramic view of Sawgrass Lake. The total length of the trail is 1.9 miles. The trail's elevation gain is 9 feet and is a loop type. The time taken to complete the total trial is approximately 33 minutes. The trail has miles of elevated boardwalk winding across a plantation of maples. The entrance also includes a winding boardwalk like the one leading up to the observation tower. The mile-long boardwalk and half-mile dirt trail in the park provide opportunities to see birds, butterflies, plants, and animals in their natural environments within Florida's most densely populated area. In the fall and spring, thousands of birds migrate through the park, drawing birders and eco-tourists worldwide. There is tons of wildlife to observe, including regular alligator sightings and many birds. The nature conservation area has a mile-long boardwalk and a 1/2-mile dirt track.

UNIQUE FACTS:
• Has Barbecue Grill
• Dogs Allowed
• Restroom Amenities.”

Read more

“Boyd Hill Nature Preserve has developed into a mosaic of natural environments and the wild tropical natural landscape along Lake Maggiore shores. The elevation gain of the trail is 6 feet to 26 feet. The trail is generally considered an easy trail route. On the side paths, Visitors can immerse themselves in every habitat and enjoy the funny big armadillos along with Wax. The conserve is used for field trips to colleges and supports programs for environmental education. The park is open 9-5, with longer hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays during the summer. Bikers can use the trail on the marked bike path. The preserve provides a lot of events for everyone. The lake acts as an essential food source for local wildlife and migratory birds and provides a stunning view. This preserve offers activities that improve its beauty, which is useful as a hub for environmental education. Boyd Hill Nature Preserve offers free admission for children aged three and under.

UNIQUE FACTS:
• Picnic Tables Available
• Playground Swings Available
• Well-marked Paths.”

Read more