The best hiking spots in Miami—or how to explore our great, flat outdoors

For a chance to peep wildlife on your hike, make your way southeast to this sprawling wetlands preserve. There are dozens of trails that take you through the park’s numerous habitats, some of which are humid and filled with bugs, so you’ll want to keep yourself protected. Hats, sunscreen and spray are all highly recommended. 

Time Out tip: There are two groups of trails, the Flamingo and the Pine Island, and each has its own set of interpretive trails and self-guided walks that meander through all kinds of trees and palms.

At the southern tip of Key Biscayne, this park offers a mix of history and natural beauty. Stroll along trails winding through tropical forests and sandy beaches, or wind your way up the tight stairwell of the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse. It’s more of a gentle meander than a sweat-inducing trek, but who cares when the scenery includes stunning ocean views?

Time Out tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and get the best lighting for your Instagram-worthy photo approaching the lighthouse.

Outdoorsy types love Oleta for its multitude of activities, from biking and kayaking to picnicking. There are 14 miles of multi-use trails that range in levels, though the intermediate ones are usually overrun with mountain bikers so watch out for oncoming traffic. Several of the trails tend to flood during the rainy months. 

Time Out tip: Hate wet socks? Head to the paved paths on those soggier days.

Also part of the Everglades but with its own entrance, Shark Valley is home to a 15-mile, heavily trafficked paved trail that loops. It’s suitable for all skill levels but we wouldn’t suggest it for people sensitive to the elements: This trail is completely exposed with little to no shade. The openness does make it easy to spot wildlife, especially the giant alligators you’re bound to see relaxing on the road.

Time Out tip: If you don’t want to make the whole 15-mile loop, cut your hike in half by first taking the tram out to the overlook.

Tucked away in Coral Gables, this hidden gem features shaded trails perfect for a laid-back hike. You’ll wander through mangrove forests and alongside a scenic man-made atoll pool, which makes an excellent cool-down spot post-hike. The salty air and lush greenery give the park a tropical oasis vibe.

Time Out tip: Bring bug spray—a lot of it. The mosquitoes here can sometimes seem like they're training for the blood-sucking Olympics.

More popular for its beaches than its trails, Crandon Park boasts its share of paths to explore. The Bear Cut Preserve and Tequesta Hammock Trails are a must for nature enthusiasts as both of these quarter-mile stretches meander through tropical hardwood hammocks. 

Time Out tip: The broad Osprey Beach Trail provides the best views of the ocean. 

Located just a bit farther afield in the Fakahatchee Strand Preserve, this hike offers a unique boardwalk trail through old-growth cypress swamps. It’s short and sweet but packed with wildlife, including birds, turtles and maybe even a shy panther if you’re lucky.

Time Out tip: Don’t let the word “boardwalk” fool you—this is a nature-lover’s dream, not a seaside carnival. Wear sturdy shoes and keep an eye out for alligator-shaped speed bumps.

For a true adventure into the swamps, the Big Cypress segment of the Florida Trail winds through wetlands, prairies and lush forests. This is the southernmost tip of the famed Florida Trail, which heads a thousand miles north into the panhandle. Be prepared to get your feet wet—literally—as large swaths of this trail are often underwater, meaning overnight hikers will need to string a hammock between trees.

Time Out tip: Bring a map, as cell service is spotty, and the trail isn’t always marked as clearly as you’d hope when you’re knee-deep in swamp water.

It’s mostly cyclists who use this paved trail that connects North Miami Beach and Miami Gardens. It runs alongside a canal dotted with palm trees and cuts through several green spaces with benches and picnic tables should you get tired, as well as exercise stations if you’re interested in giving your workout a boost. 

Time Out tip: Finding this trail can be tricky: It starts and ends at Florida’s Turnpike and NE 19th Avenue and spans approximately 6.5 miles. Watch for the area near the overpass with the low clearance and the several busy intersections you’ll need to cross to make it the whole way through.