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Lakeland, Florida

Looking for the best hiking in Lakeland? We've got you covered with the top trails, trips, hiking, backpacking, camping and more around Lakeland. The detailed guides, photos, and reviews are all submitted by the Outbound community.

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Top Hiking Spots in and near Lakeland

  • Thonotosassa, Florida

    River Rapids Nature Trail

    1.72 mi / 144 ft gain
    Escape into wild Florida on the River Rapids Nature Trail just minutes from downtown Tampa at Hillsborough River State Park. After a delayed flight had me spending an unexpected night in the Tampa area, I was pleasantly surprised to roll into Hillsborough River's campground without a reservation...
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  • Tampa, Florida

    Take a Stroll through Eureka Springs Park

    0.3 mi
    Located just 10 miles from downtown Tampa right off I-4, this short trail runs through a 31-acre botanical garden.  The park has a variety of exotic plans, ferns, flowers and plants as well as a 0.3 mile boardwalk through cypress, maple and oak trees.  Run by Hillsborough County, there's a $2 fee...
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  • Clermont, Florida

    Hike the Lake Louisa State Park Trail

    4.0
    6.2 mi / 150 ft gain
    This trail is accessible to hikers, cyclists, equestrians and dogs. It takes you through open Florida landscape enlivened by wildflowers and also takes you past Dixie and Bear Lakes on the way to the much larger Lake Louisa. The trail is out-and-back, so you can go the whole way or choose do just...
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  • Wimauma, Florida

    Hike Little Manatee River Loop

    5.0
    6.5 mi
    This 6.5 mile trailhead is actually located outside the main entrance, just north of the river off of US 301 S.  The park charges a $4 entrance fee and it is recommended that you enter the main park to use restrooms and/or refill water bottles as those facilities are nonexistent at the outside-th...
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  • Lake Wales, Florida

    Hike the Gobbler Ridge Trail

    2.8 mi
    I'm not sure why this trail is called Gobbler Ridge. I do understand the Gobbler part as there are wild turkeys in the park. However, I don't think there is a ridge in all of Florida! Anyway, this is a nice trail about 2.8 miles long marked with green blazes. The trailhead is from the south end o...
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  • Lake Wales, Florida

    Hike the Buster Island Loop

    6.7 mi
    The Buster Island Loop hike is the longest hike in the park at 6.7 miles. It is completely flat and easy hike that goes through a varied landscape. The trail starts from the north side of the parking lot (only one parking area). Follow the blue connector trail a short way to a road. Here you will...
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  • Safety Harbor, Florida

    Philippe Park Trail

    1.4 mi / 144 ft gain
    Philippe Park Trail is a loop trail that is good for all skill levels located near Safety Harbor, Florida.
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  • St. Petersburg, Florida

    Sawgrass Lake Park Trail

    5.0
    1.88 mi / 105 ft gain
    Sawgrass Lake Park Trail is a loop trail that takes you by a lake located near St. Petersburg, Florida.
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  • Sebring, Florida

    Hike the Ancient Hammock Trail

    5.0
    0.6 mi
    Highlands Hammock State Park is one of the best places in all of Florida! There are multiple trails to choose from, but if you want to see ancient oak trees in a quintessential swamp then the Ancient Hammock Trail is your best bet. The boardwalk meanders through the swampy forest and you can be o...
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Escape to the Sunshine

VISIT FLORIDA, serves as Florida's official source for travel planning. What can be discovered beyond Florida’s 825 miles of beaches? How about 320 freshwater springs, 175 state parks, infinite mangrove tunnels and hidden caverns. Let your adventure begin. Follow Your Sunshine.

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