Having fun with the town is one factor, however each every now and then, it’s all the time good to get out into nature and breathe in some recent air. The excellent news is, that many mountaineering trails in Tampa can help you just do that. Even higher is that the majority are perfect for freshmen – if I can do it, anybody can.
Mountaineering in Tampa wasn’t on my radar till I’d visited the town a number of instances already. However then I noticed that there was a lot to discover outdoors of the town itself. So, a buddy recommended we go mountaineering for the day, and I’m so glad I agreed.
There are various mountaineering trails inside, and simply outdoors, the town they usually all present you the great thing about the world from beforehand unseen views. From wildlife to wild coastal views, shady tree canopies to countless inexperienced, it is best to actually find time for a bit strolling throughout your go to.
15 Finest Hikes in Tampa
There are extra mountaineering trails in Tampa than you may notice, and that’s the place some insider data is available in very helpful. Since my first introduction to mountaineering within the space, I’ve accomplished numerous trails, and I’ve narrowed down my favorites for you on this put up.
You’ll discover trails for freshmen and intermediate walkers, coastal views, nature, wildlife, and treks with loads of amenities alongside the best way. The one factor it is advisable do is figure out which one you’ll take first.
1. Tampa Riverwalk (Finest for New Arrivals to Tampa)
You won’t take into account it a trek, however it’s fairly lengthy and due to this fact falls into the ‘strolling trails in Tampa’ class. The Riverwalk spans 7.7km and takes you alongside the sting of the Hillsborough River, overlooking the hustle and bustle of Downtown from a relaxed distance. It presents loads of house to relaxation and sit down if you want a break.
You’ll cross by six inexperienced parks, and there are points of interest alongside the best way comparable to museums and eating places. In essence, you won’t even really feel such as you’re on a trek, however your legs will certainly burn by the top of the day.
The Riverwalk is well accessible for these in a wheelchair and households with strollers. It might probably get a bit busy at sure instances of the day however early within the morning and later within the day you possibly can usually stroll with out hindrance. For me, that is the very best path for individuals who have simply arrived and wish to get their bearings.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Channelside/Downtown Tampa. Click on right here for extra data.
Size: 7.7km/4.8 miles
Length: 1.5 hours with out stopping, however there’s a lot to maintain you occupied alongside the best way – take your time
Sort of Path: Out & again
Elevation Achieve: 16 meters
Finest For: Novices, households, {couples}
2. Courtney Campbell Causeway West Path (Finest for Coastal Views)
This was the primary path I accomplished, and it’s what gave me a thirst for extra mountaineering trails in Tampa. The views alongside the stroll are lovely, stretching proper over the bay and past. If you happen to’re a chicken lover, you’ll discover many species of birds make an look alongside the best way, and there are locations you possibly can cease and observe them and their actions.
If you happen to’re in search of simple hikes round Tampa that provide you with loads of wow issue moments, I’d suggest this one. It’s a comparatively easy hike, though fairly lengthy; you’ll encounter many different individuals operating and biking too. The hike can also be family-friendly because it’s fairly flat and there are many open areas to run.
Look again over the cityscape from the sting of the shoreline and admire the surroundings. That is undoubtedly a hike with loads of photograph alternatives.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Courtney Campbell Causeway. Click on right here for extra data.
Size: 25.9km/16 miles
Length: 4.5 hours
Sort of Path: Out & again
Elevation Achieve: 17 meters
Finest For: Runners, households, freshmen, canine house owners (canines have to be on a leash)
3. Bayshore Boulevard (Finest for Runners)
If you happen to don’t wish to stroll, and maybe choose to run and get loads of train, this is among the greatest Tampa trails for you. That being stated, you don’t have to run; Bayshore Boulevard is a good spot to stroll slowly and take your time.
You’ll cross alongside the sting of the Hillsborough River, and there are many spots to take a seat and take a relaxation. The paved space is kind of vast, so individuals can simply cross you in case you’re strolling they usually’re operating. I loved this path, and it was a welcome break from the noise of Downtown.
You may take your canine on this stroll in case you select, however they have to be on a leash always. It’s not the most suitable choice for households as there isn’t plenty of free house for youngsters to run, and the water’s edge might be a bit nerve-wracking.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: 10 minutes outdoors of Downtown. Click on right here for extra data.
Size: 13.5km/8.4 miles
Length: 2.5 hours
Sort of Path: Out & again
Elevation Achieve: 9 meters
Finest For: Runners, cyclists, freshmen
4. Al Lopez Park Path (Finest for Canine Homeowners)
I beloved my time on the Al Lopez Park Path as a result of it felt like I used to be in a rustic park, far-off from the town. This is among the greatest mountaineering trails in Tampa for canine house owners, as there’s loads of open house, so that you’re not unlikely to come across plenty of different canines in a small space.
The river runs by the center of the park with picturesque wood bridges crossing over, framed by cascading bushes. I did this trek when it was a bit wet, and it was nonetheless actually pleasing; the odor of the bushes within the air was so refreshing.
You’ll discover picnic seashores all through the park, and it’s a great spot for these pushing strollers or wheelchair customers. If you happen to’re in search of trekking in Tampa alternatives as a newbie, I’d counsel you give this one a strive.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Al Lopez Park, quarter-hour from Downtown. Click on right here for extra data.
Size: 1.8km/1 mile
Length: 20 minutes
Sort of Path: Loop
Elevation Achieve: 1 meter
Finest For: Novices, households, fast walks, canine house owners
5. Flatwoods Loop Path (Finest for Novices)
This is among the greatest locations to hike in Tampa for freshmen. The entire path is a bit lengthy, however it’s doable in a number of hours, and also you don’t need to stroll all of it in case you don’t wish to. The surroundings can also be lovely, with numerous bushes and the freshest air attainable.
I did this path through the winter months, and it was such a revitalizing change from being surrounded by visitors. It’s a semi-busy path, so you will notice different individuals, however it’s by no means overly crowded. It’s additionally paved all the best way so is good for strollers and wheelchairs.
If you happen to’re doing the path through the summer season months, you’ll discover many water stations across the edge, so be sure you rehydrate every time you possibly can.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Flatwoods Wilderness Park. Click on right here for extra data.
Size: 17.7km/11 miles
Length: 3 hours 10 minutes
Sort of Path: Loop
Elevation Achieve: 18 meters
Finest For: Novices and households
6. Lettuce Lake Park Boardwalk (Finest for Pushing a Stroller)
If you happen to’re in search of Tampa strolling trails that can maintain little ones occupied, it is a nice selection. There’s an remark tower midway round which youngsters will love exploring, and the views are implausible. It’s additionally paved the entire manner round, so one other path that’s appropriate for strollers.
I noticed numerous wildlife on this path, and in case you’re into chicken watching, you’ll actually get pleasure from this spot. Nevertheless, this park does shut throughout dangerous climate, particularly in winter, so it’s greatest to verify on-line earlier than you set out for the day.
It’s additionally a very simple path to finish and solely takes a brief period of time. In that case, you possibly can wander slowly and cease for a picnic.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Lettuce Lake Regional Park. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Size: 1km/0.6 miles
Length: 11 minutes
Sort of Path: Loop
Elevation Achieve: 2 meters
Finest For: Novices, households, fast stroll, wildlife
7. Eureka Springs Boardwalk (Finest for Rest)
They are saying that if you’re round nature, you possibly can’t assist however loosen up. That’s precisely how I’d describe this trek. Not solely are you surrounded by lush greenery at each flip however it’s a prime Tampa trek for fauna and flora fans.
If you happen to drive into this park earlier than beginning the path, you’ll have to pay a small cost per automobile, nonetheless, there’s loads of parking obtainable. This is among the mountaineering trails in Tampa that’s appropriate for full freshmen as a result of it’s brief and flat. Regardless of it being very simple to finish, it has rather a lot to maintain you occupied alongside the best way.
For me, the very best factor to do is get pleasure from being Mom Nature’s arms. This path could be brief, however it’s a implausible strategy to unwind.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Eureka Springs Park. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Size: 0.8km/0.5 miles
Length: 10 minutes
Sort of Path: Loop
Elevation Achieve: 1 meter
Finest For: Novices, fast walks, nature
8. Lizards Tail (Finest for Wild Views)
If you wish to problem your self on one of many hikes in Tampa, I’d counsel Lizards Tail. You may go to this space all yr spherical, however it’s merely lovely through the summer season months. You’ll want comfy footwear for this one and in the summertime, a hat, and loads of solar lotion and water.
You’ll make your manner by lush, forested areas and swampland – (whereas there aren’t any experiences of alligator points right here, I don’t suggest you get within the water). Nevertheless, you will notice numerous completely different wildflowers, which make for great pictures.
The excellent news is that the bushes provide a very good quantity of shade as you progress alongside the path and it’s marked clearly as you go.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Cypress Creek Reserve. Click on right here for extra data.
Size: 6.4km/4 miles
Length: 1.5 hours
Sort of Path: Loop
Elevation Achieve: 7 meters
Finest For: Intermediate hikers, wildlife
9. Higher Tampa Bay Eagle Path (Finest for Wildlife)
This is among the greatest hikes round Tampa for trying out wildlife, specifically, birdwatching. It’s a fairly simple stroll, and the bottom is made up of wood boards, which may generally change into a bit slippery if it’s been raining; you’ll want to put on good footwear with an acceptable grip.
There are benches at varied factors alongside the best way for resting, and it’s a fairly brief path, so you possibly can take your time and discover correctly. Spend a while on the remark deck because the view is just great and is good for pictures.
Weekends can get fairly busy on this path, however in case you go through the week you’ll nearly have your entire place to your self.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Higher Tampa Bay Park. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Size: 1.1km/0.7 miles
Length: 12 minutes
Sort of Path: Out & again
Elevation Achieve: 2 meters
Finest For: Fast stroll, freshmen, households, nature
10. MacDill Path (Finest for Households)
That is the very best Tampa mountaineering spot for households as there’s a playground the place kids can run free and picnic areas alongside the best way. There’s a picturesque lake midway round, and also you’ll see many kinds of birds, and open sports activities fields too.
This path is paved the entire manner round so it’s ideally suited for households with strollers and people in wheelchairs. You may take your canines alongside this route, however you’ll have to maintain them on a leash.
Whereas this hike is brief, I actually loved the household vibe. It’s by no means unduly crowded or loud, and the massive variety of bushes makes you’re feeling such as you’re rather a lot farther from the town than you actually are.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Gadsden Park. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Size: 2.4km/1.5 miles
Length: half-hour
Sort of Path: Loop
Elevation Achieve: 3 meters
Finest For: Novices, fast stroll, households
11. Rocky Creek Park Path (Finest for Fowl Watching)
I’m particularly keen on this path, primarily for the quantity of various birds I noticed once I went. The river flows by the center of the park, and also you cross over through a wood bridge, which additionally presents implausible views.
Though the pathway is paved, it may well change into a bit slippery after it’s been raining and the leaves have fallen. It’s top-of-the-line hikes close to Tampa for wildlife and birdwatching, however it’s additionally a very simple one for freshmen. There’s numerous shade too, which is welcome through the hotter summer season months.
Total, I feel this is among the greatest mountaineering trails in Tampa in case you don’t wish to journey too far-off from Downtown, however nonetheless wish to really feel such as you’re in the midst of nature. When you have an hour to spare, spend it right here.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Rocky Creek Park. Click on right here for extra data.
Size: 0.8km/0.5 miles
Length: 10 minutes
Sort of Path: Out & again
Elevation Achieve: 3 meters
Finest For: Fast stroll, freshmen, nature, households
12. Temple Terrace Scout Park Loop (Finest for Surroundings)
Certainly, this is among the greatest summer season hikes in Tampa, and when all of the bushes and flowers are in full bloom, it’s a sight to behold. It received’t take too lengthy to finish this hike, round 20 minutes in case you don’t cease alongside the best way, however it’s value taking a leisurely tempo to totally admire the surroundings.
You may take a picnic right here, though there aren’t many trash cans so all the time keep in mind to take packaging and any leftover meals with you. Whereas it is a standard spot, it by no means feels crowded so that you’ll actually have the ability to get away from all of it by visiting this space.
If you wish to totally immerse your self in nature, you possibly can select to spend the evening beneath the celebrities as there’s a campsite obtainable. It’s topic to availability because it’s utilized by native scout teams, so you’ll want to enquire earlier than pitching up!
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Temple Terrace Scout Park. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Size: 1.6km/1 mile
Length: 17 minutes
Sort of Path: Loop
Elevation Achieve: 1 meter
Finest For: Fast stroll, freshmen, households, tenting
13. Picnic Island Loop (Finest for Seashore Strolling)
Many of the Tampa mountaineering trails are both countryside environments or seashores, however the great thing about this specific hike is that it combines each. The draw back is that the route isn’t paved so that you’ll undoubtedly want ample strolling footwear or sneakers.
You may take this path at any time of the yr, however summer season will present you the very best of the world. You may take a picnic right here, therefore the title, however once more, all the time keep in mind to take your trash away with you. There’s a disc golf course midway alongside the route.
This path can get a bit busy through the weekends and public holidays, however it’s by no means uncomfortably crowded. There’s house to cross individuals alongside the best way, however it isn’t advisable for strollers or wheelchairs due to the uneven terrain.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Picnic Island Park. Click on right here for extra data.
Size: 3.4km/2 miles
Length: 40 minutes
Sort of Path: Loop
Elevation Achieve: 7 meters
Finest For: Intermediate, nature
14. City ‘N Nation Greenway (Finest for In search of Solitude)
Regardless of the actual fact this path takes you previous a residential space, it feels very ‘out of the best way,’ making it ideally suited for locating a bit peace and quiet or getting away from all of it. It’s top-of-the-line brief Tampa day hikes in case you’re a complete newbie as a result of the monitor is paved and indicators clearly present you the best way.
Like most mountaineering trails in Tampa, it’s appropriate for individuals with strollers or wheelchairs, and you’ll take your canine, however once more, it is advisable maintain them on a leash. There are various several types of bushes which might be actually attention-grabbing to discover and are dwelling to plenty of chicken species.
You may park your automobile simply outdoors of the trailhead, however there are restricted areas obtainable – it’s greatest to reach early if attainable.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: City & Nation Park. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Size: 6.8km/4.2 miles
Length: 1 hour quarter-hour
Sort of Path: Out & again
Elevation Achieve: 16 meters
Finest For: Novices, households, nature
15. Harbour Island Coastal Stroll (Finest for Metropolis Strolling)
If you happen to like your hikes a bit extra vibrant, I’d suggest this one. You’ll see loads of individuals, though not so many who it feels crowded, and also you’ll get pleasure from some wonderful views. It’s top-of-the-line winter hikes in Tampa as a result of there’s no likelihood of poor climate affecting your time — you’ll simply want a thick coat and an umbrella.
In the summertime months, you possibly can paddle board alongside this route, however it’s merely an amazing alternative to absorb the vibe of the town with out being proper in the midst of the hustle and bustle.
You may relaxation alongside the best way, due to strategically positioned benches, and there are a number of cafes at sure spots too.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Harbour Island. Click on right here for extra data.
Size: 3.2km/2 miles
Length: 35 minutes
Sort of Path: Out & again
Elevation Achieve: 5 meters
Finest For: Novices and concrete strolling
What to Pack for Hikes in Tampa
Now of the very best mountaineering in Tampa, you’ll have to know what to take with you. There aren’t any trails which might be to this point out into the wilderness that you just’ll want particular gear, however it pays to have the fundamentals with you:
Ideas for Mountaineering in Tampa
Most day hikes round Tampa are fairly simple and never too lengthy, however that doesn’t imply you don’t want to stay to some fundamental tips. Comply with the following pointers, and also you’ll stay protected whereas having fun with the very best the world has to supply:
Be Animal Conscious
You’re not going to be heading into excessive wilderness, however it pays to know the kind of wildlife you may encounter. Steer clear of water and don’t try and swim except indicators say you possibly can; alligators can, and do, lurk. You must also spray your self liberally with mosquito repellant to keep away from undesirable bites.
It’s unlikely you’ll see a bear whilst you’re out and about, however it’s not unparalleled. Don’t run away, as an alternative, again away slowly. if the bear strikes towards you, stand as much as your full top, and make plenty of noise, as you proceed backing away.
Examine The Climate Earlier than Heading Out
Most mountaineering trails in Tampa provide a very good quantity of shade from the solar, however that doesn’t imply you shouldn’t put on solar lotion and a hat. It’s additionally a good suggestion to verify the climate forecast earlier than you go, simply in case there are any storms predicted. If there are, it could be greatest to reschedule.
Let Somebody Know The place You’re Going
That is fundamental frequent sense. If you happen to’re heading out on a hike, let somebody know the place you’re going, be it a buddy, member of the family, and even the lodge receptionist. Hold your telephone with you always, and ensure it’s totally charged earlier than you go.
The Trails Can Be Slippery
The most effective treks in Tampa usually take you thru woodland and bushes. That is fantastic in the summertime, but when it’s raining, particularly in winter, these tracks can change into a bit slippery on account of fallen leaves.
By no means be tempted to stroll in Tampa in flip-flops or summer season footwear. Mountaineering, strolling footwear, or sneakers provides you with the grip it is advisable keep in your ft.
Examine Whether or not Picnics Are Allowed
Most mountaineering trails in Tampa characteristic picnic tables and spots the place you possibly can eat, however not all. There will likely be indicators confirming what’s and isn’t allowed so be sure you verify forward of time earlier than you’re taking a full picnic and intend to eat it someplace alongside the best way.
It goes with out saying however, in case you do have a picnic, be sure you take your whole trash with you. Depart the path as you discovered it.
Comply with Correct Path Etiquette
It’s simply good manners to step to the aspect to let different individuals cross in the event that they’re strolling sooner than you. If somebody is strolling towards you, be sure you transfer apart to allow them to simply cross. At all times be aware of the wildlife, and the natural world on the path sides.
Mountaineering in Tampa: FAQs
Listed below are some solutions to continuously requested questions on mountaineering in Tampa, FL:
The most effective hikes in Tampa are dotted across the bay, however the most well-liked is the Riverwalk between Channelside and Downtown.
Lettuce Lake Park Boardwalk is a simple hike that can go well with most individuals. Wheelchair customers and households with strollers may also discover this very accessible.
There are some waterfall hikes in Tampa, however they’re a bit additional out and are extra appropriate for superior hikers. The closest is Falling Creek Falls which is 2.5 hours away from Tampa.
Most mountaineering trails in Tampa are paved, however it is best to put on comfy and supportive footwear. You must also carry a lightweight rain jacket simply in case, and in case you’re mountaineering in the summertime, be sure you have a hat to guard towards the solar. Snug, unfastened clothes can also be advisable.
In no way. So long as you comply with directions and persist with the trail, mountaineering in Tampa is totally protected.
The most effective hikes round Tampa vary from simple to average, so there aren’t any significantly troublesome trails across the space.
The MacDill Path is the very best for households because it has a playground and plenty of amenities for households and youngsters.
In Closing
There are various mountaineering trails in Tampa, and all of them provide unmatched surroundings and an opportunity to breathe in some recent air. I’ve to confess, I used to be by no means an avid hiker, however after happening a number of walks with a buddy, I discovered an actual appreciation for not solely the exercise itself however the surroundings round Tampa and past.
Select a path that calls out to you probably the most, placed on some comfy footwear, and head on the market. You’ll have the ability to take loads of pictures, burn off some energy, and if you return, you possibly can get pleasure from an enormous meal – you’ll have actually earned it!
