Explore Durbin Preserve

Just off of I-95 lies this beautiful network of trails through one of North Florida's more varied landscapes. The parking lot is easy to find just follow the gravel path off of Bartram Park Blvd. Parking and trail access is always free and is open year round unless there is a control burn. At the entrance you'll find trail maps and info about the preserve. There are several trails but the main loop (yellow blazes) is about five miles and will take you through some beautiful palm hammocks where you can sometimes spot white-tail deer, gopher tortoises, and red-tailed hawks among other wildlife. 

There are plenty of spots to stop and have a picnic or enjoy the scenery. And despite being near a high populated area, the trails are rarely, if ever, crowded. Even through it's not a very strenuous hike, Florida heat can sneak up on you so make sure to bring plenty of water. If you take the clockwise path around the loop you can continue straight after about half a mile and take the red blaze trail down to Durbin Creek where you might be able to catch a glimpse of an alligator. 

The terrain is flat and it's a good place to get an easy hike in your spare time, lots of people bring their dogs here but make sure to check them for ticks especially near the creek in warm months.