Find out how the annual Hiking Spree works, how to register, and a list of all the hiking trail locations

How it works

Hike at least eight trails. Participants may hike on their own, with a group, or through one of our guided hikes. Some sites have entrance and parking fees. Hikers requiring accessible trails may repeat any trail twice for credit, as long as the hikes occur on different dates.

Hiking Spree FAQs

Fin answers to the most frequently asked questions.

What trails are available?

Trails for the 2024-2025 Hiking Spree will be available Friday, November 1, 2024.

What are neighborhood parks and recreation center trails?

These are generally short, paved trails with water and facilities, unless otherwise noted.

What are conservation park trails?

  • These trails provide more of a nature experience than your typical neighborhood park trail. Though some are paved, most are primitive trails that take you through a variety of natural habitats ranging from upland pine flatwoods, to wetland swamps, to bottomland forests.
  • Most of the conservation parks have amenities such as running water, restrooms, playgrounds, and manicured pathways

What are nature preserve trails?

  • These trails take the nature experience up several notches. When hiking nature preserves, you will be leaving civilization behind. On a nature preserve, development is kept to a minimum to protect natural areas and wildlife.
  • Nature preserve trailheads have small, unpaved parking lots, a fence with a walk-through entrance, and a small kiosk with trail information
  • The nature preserve trails do not have restrooms or running water, and are unpaved, longer with fewer trail markers, and have rougher terrain

What are Florida State parks and other trails?

  • Trail conditions will vary based on the location from easy to moderate to strenuous. Some trails may be paved, while others might be undeveloped with rough terrain.
  • You may want to call the park or location you are planning to hike ahead of time to check on amenities and accommodations

What are trail markers?

Many nature preserve trails are marked a certain color, usually red, blue, or yellow. These paint markings on posts or trees are blazes and will guide you in the proper direction. If you come to an intersection, look for a blaze for what direction to hike. Always carry a map when you are hiking a nature preserve.

What do I need to know if I am new to hiking?

If you are new to hiking, we recommend getting your hiking legs at a neighborhood park trail, and then progress to the conservation parks and nature preserves. When hiking, always bring:

  • The correct trail map for your destination
  • A compass or GPS
  • Plenty of drinking water
  • Appropriate shoes
  • Sun protection

Register

Registration is free - you must be registered to receive your prize at the end. To find out how to claim your prize, visit the Hiking Spree Rewards page.

Hiking trail locations and distances

The 2024-2025 Hiking Spree trails will be available here, Friday, November 1, 2024.

Image Caption: Hiking Spree patch for 2023-2024
Last Modified: 3/29/2024, 11:53:38 AM

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