Urban Trails & Hikes: Discovering Nature in the Heart of Jacksonville

Hidden amidst the noise and glitter of Florida’s Jacksonville is a network of green havens. Drop the tourist traps, ditch the car, tie up your boots, and off you go. Walk an urban adventure, exploring hidden trails and scenic hikes, and surprise yourself with how much nature you can find in the big city.

Nature Escapes Within City Limits:

• James Weldon Johnson Park or Hemming Park Oasis: In the thick of Downtown Jax, escape the concrete jungle. The wide-open park offers a network of paved and natural trails winding past the massive oak trees, views of the St. Johns River, and a home for fledgling wildlife. Stroll up to the historic gazebo, have a picnic under the shade, or just sit in peace.
• The Loop & Hogans Creek Greenway: During this 5-mile loop, learn to embrace the duality of nature and the city. Scenic Hogans Creek or bike past colorful murals and bustling neighborhoods. Then, relax with a meander along the tranquil Riverfront Esplanade.
• McCord’s Park Oasis: Jacksonville’s largest urban park offers a world of different ecosystems. Pick your poison. Hike through pine forests, kayak along the peaceful waterways, or climb the observation tower for a panoramic view of the cityscape. This hidden gem provides boundless opportunities for outdoor fun.
• Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens: For a botanical paradise, immerse yourself. Sit amid themed gardens with verdant flowers, wander along tranquil pathways, and experience local ecology at this educational and scenic paradise.

Trails Beyond the City Center:

• **Timucuan Trail: Explore the history and wilderness of Jacksonville. The 15-mile trail passes through the Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve where stands of ancient cypress swamps, rich wildlife, and remains of Native American settlements can be seen.
• Fort Caroline: Stepping back in time at Fort Caroline National Memorial. Visit the reconstructed French fort, walk the scenic nature trails, and peruse the history of the area.
• Hanna Park: Hanna Park has both hiking and beaches. Walk through the coastal scrubland, scale scenic dunes, and enjoy the incredible ocean views and never-ending stretches of sand.

Unforgettable Urban Experiences:

These urban trails and hikes offer more than just a chance to exercise; they allow you to get closer to nature, uncover hidden treasures, and see a side of Jacksonville you never knew existed. The St. Johns River offers you spectacular sunrises. The city parks provide all manner of bird song. And the green havens hidden within the city are places of peace.

Planning Your Urban Adventure:

• The City of Jacksonville’s TrailFinder app provides detailed maps, trail descriptions, and directions.
• Be sure to pack water, sunscreen, and insect repellent when you go out.
• Select trails that match your physical condition and time.
• Keep wildlife, and yourself, safe. Do not stray from designated trails.
• No trace, respect nature.

Exploring nature in the midst of Jacksonville is something of an adventure. So leave the car in the garage, put on your walking shoes, and hit the streets for an urban hike or to stroll down an unknown trail. You might be surprised by the hidden beauty and calm that lie just steps away from the city’s noisy streets.

After all, the way to enjoy these urban pathways is with an open mind and a sense of the miraculous. Let the fresh air rouse you, the natural beauty move you, and the urban expanses surprise you with all that it conceals. Happy hiking!