Five Hiking Trails You Must Try this Spring Break

Come for the beach. Stay for the…hiking? It might sound a little strange to hike in Florida, depending on where you’re from, but trust us, trails here offer something different from most areas. More than 20 trails wind through South Walton, and we think these five stand out from the rest.

Deer Lake Trail

6350 East County Highway 30A, WaterSound, FL 32461

This 1.5 miles trail’s a perfect meal hike. Pack a picnic, enjoy the rare foliage and take in the view.

Eastern Lake Trail

1137 County Road 395 South, Santa Rosa Beach, Florida 32459

Bring your best walking shoes for this one. With just over 12 miles to complete the trail, you’ll need them, along with plenty of water and sunscreen. But, it’s worth it for the incredible view of Eastern Lake.

Flatwoods Trail

357 Main Park Road, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459

At just under four miles, this trail features pine flatwoods and small, freshwater ponds, which creates a perfect habitat for a variety of birds native to Florida.

Western Lake Loop

357 Main Park Road, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459

If you’re looking for something a little shorter, this under-a-mile trail is for you. It’ll loop you through the dune ecosystem, the salt marsh and the famous Grayton Beach State Park pine flatwoods.

Morris Lake Nature Trail

7525 West Scenic Highway 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459

This 2.5 mile trail curves through a former WWII missile development site. Through the bald cypress swamps and massive sand dunes, you’ll see remnants of iron tracks and abandoned vehicles from the program.

Each trail offers something different. So, try one that suits you best, or try them all. You won’t be disappointed.