Having fun with the town is one factor, however each every now and then, it’s at all times 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 almost all are perfect for rookies – if I can do it, anybody can.
Mountain climbing 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 pal steered we go mountaineering for the day, and I’m so glad I agreed.
There are lots of mountaineering trails inside, and simply outdoors, the town and so they all present you the fantastic thing about the realm from beforehand unseen views. From wildlife to wild coastal views, shady tree canopies to limitless inexperienced, it’s best to definitely find time for just a little strolling throughout your go to.
15 Finest Hikes in Tampa
There are extra mountaineering trails in Tampa than you would possibly understand, and that’s the place some insider information 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 submit.
You’ll discover trails for rookies and intermediate walkers, coastal views, nature, wildlife, and treks with loads of amenities alongside the way in which. The one factor that you must do is figure out which one you’ll take first.
1. Tampa Riverwalk (Finest for New Arrivals to Tampa)
You won’t contemplate it a trek, however it’s fairly lengthy and subsequently 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 peaceful distance. It gives loads of area to relaxation and sit whenever you want a break.
You’ll go by six inexperienced parks, and there are points of interest alongside the way in which resembling 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 definitely accessible for these in a wheelchair and households with strollers. It will probably get just a little busy at sure instances of the day however early within the morning and later within the day you may usually stroll with out hindrance. For me, that is the most effective path for individuals who have simply arrived and wish to get their bearings.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Channelside/Downtown Tampa. Click on right here for extra info.
Size: 7.7km/4.8 miles
Period: 1.5 hours with out stopping, however there’s lots to maintain you occupied alongside the way in which – take your time
Sort of Path: Out & again
Elevation Acquire: 16 meters
Finest For: Learners, 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 stunning, stretching proper over the bay and past. When you’re a chicken lover, you’ll discover many species of birds make an look alongside the way in which, and there are locations you may cease and observe them and their actions.
When you’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 folks 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 picture alternatives.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Courtney Campbell Causeway. Click on right here for extra info.
Size: 25.9km/16 miles
Period: 4.5 hours
Sort of Path: Out & again
Elevation Acquire: 17 meters
Finest For: Runners, households, rookies, canine homeowners (canines should be on a leash)
3. Bayshore Boulevard (Finest for Runners)
When you don’t wish to stroll, and maybe favor to run and get loads of train, this is likely one of the finest Tampa trails for you. That being mentioned, you don’t have to run; Bayshore Boulevard is a good spot to stroll slowly and take your time.
You’ll go 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 huge, so folks can simply go you should you’re strolling and so they’re operating. I loved this path, and it was a welcome break from the noise of Downtown.
You’ll be able to take your canine on this stroll should you select, however they should be on a leash always. It’s not the most suitable choice for households as there isn’t plenty of free area for youngsters to run, and the water’s edge could possibly be just a little nerve-wracking.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: 10 minutes outdoors of Downtown. Click on right here for extra info.
Size: 13.5km/8.4 miles
Period: 2.5 hours
Sort of Path: Out & again
Elevation Acquire: 9 meters
Finest For: Runners, cyclists, rookies
4. Al Lopez Park Path (Finest for Canine House owners)
I cherished my time on the Al Lopez Park Path as a result of it felt like I used to be in a rustic park, distant from the town. This is likely one of the finest mountaineering trails in Tampa for canine homeowners, as there’s loads of open area, 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 timber. I did this trek when it was just a little wet, and it was nonetheless actually satisfying; the scent of the timber 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. When you’re in search of trekking in Tampa alternatives as a newbie, I’d counsel you give this one a attempt.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Al Lopez Park, quarter-hour from Downtown. Click on right here for extra info.
Size: 1.8km/1 mile
Period: 20 minutes
Sort of Path: Loop
Elevation Acquire: 1 meter
Finest For: Learners, households, fast walks, canine homeowners
5. Flatwoods Loop Path (Finest for Learners)
This is likely one of the finest locations to hike in Tampa for rookies. The whole path is just a little lengthy, however it’s doable in a number of hours, and also you don’t must stroll all of it should you don’t wish to. The surroundings can also be stunning, with numerous timber 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 folks, however it’s by no means overly crowded. It’s additionally paved all the way in which so is good for strollers and wheelchairs.
When you’re doing the path through the summer season months, you’ll discover many water stations across the edge, so ensure you rehydrate each time you may.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Flatwoods Wilderness Park. Click on right here for extra info.
Size: 17.7km/11 miles
Period: 3 hours 10 minutes
Sort of Path: Loop
Elevation Acquire: 18 meters
Finest For: Learners and households
6. Lettuce Lake Park Boardwalk (Finest for Pushing a Stroller)
When you’re in search of Tampa strolling trails that can hold little ones occupied, this can be a nice alternative. There’s an statement tower midway round which children will love exploring, and the views are improbable. 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 should you’re into chicken watching, you’ll actually take pleasure in this spot. Nonetheless, this park does shut throughout unhealthy climate, particularly in winter, so it’s finest to test on-line earlier than you set out for the day.
It’s additionally an easy path to finish and solely takes a brief period of time. In that case, you may wander slowly and cease for a picnic.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Lettuce Lake Regional Park. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Size: 1km/0.6 miles
Period: 11 minutes
Sort of Path: Loop
Elevation Acquire: 2 meters
Finest For: Learners, households, fast stroll, wildlife
7. Eureka Springs Boardwalk (Finest for Rest)
They are saying that whenever you’re round nature, you may’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 high Tampa trek for fauna and flora fanatics.
When you drive into this park earlier than beginning the path, you’ll have to pay a small cost per car, nonetheless, there’s loads of parking accessible. This is likely one of the mountaineering trails in Tampa that’s appropriate for full rookies as a result of it’s quick and flat. Regardless of it being very simple to finish, it has lots to maintain you occupied alongside the way in which.
For me, the most effective factor to do is take pleasure in being Mom Nature’s arms. This path could be quick, however it’s a improbable approach to unwind.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Eureka Springs Park. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Size: 0.8km/0.5 miles
Period: 10 minutes
Sort of Path: Loop
Elevation Acquire: 1 meter
Finest For: Learners, 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’ll be able to go to this space all 12 months spherical, however it’s merely stunning through the summer season months. You’ll want snug sneakers 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 stories of alligator points right here, I don’t suggest you get within the water). Nonetheless, you will notice plenty of totally different wildflowers, which make for great images.
The excellent news is that the timber provide a very good quantity of shade as you progress alongside the path and it’s marked clearly as you go.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Cypress Creek Reserve. Click on right here for extra info.
Size: 6.4km/4 miles
Period: 1.5 hours
Sort of Path: Loop
Elevation Acquire: 7 meters
Finest For: Intermediate hikers, wildlife
9. Higher Tampa Bay Eagle Path (Finest for Wildlife)
This is likely one of the finest 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 might generally turn out to be just a little slippery if it’s been raining; you’ll want to put on good sneakers with an appropriate grip.
There are benches at numerous factors alongside the way in which for resting, and it’s a fairly quick path, so you may take your time and discover correctly. Spend a while on the statement deck because the view is just great and is good for images.
Weekends can get fairly busy on this path, however should you go through the week you’ll virtually have your entire place to your self.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Higher Tampa Bay Park. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Size: 1.1km/0.7 miles
Period: 12 minutes
Sort of Path: Out & again
Elevation Acquire: 2 meters
Finest For: Fast stroll, rookies, households, nature
10. MacDill Path (Finest for Households)
That is the most effective Tampa mountaineering spot for households as there’s a playground the place kids can run free and picnic areas alongside the way in which. There’s a picturesque lake midway round, and also you’ll see many forms of birds, and open sports activities fields too.
This path is paved the entire manner round so it’s excellent for households with strollers and people in wheelchairs. You’ll be able to take your canines alongside this route, however you’ll have to hold 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 timber makes you are feeling such as you’re lots farther from the town than you actually are.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Gadsden Park. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Size: 2.4km/1.5 miles
Period: half-hour
Sort of Path: Loop
Elevation Acquire: 3 meters
Finest For: Learners, fast stroll, households
11. Rocky Creek Park Path (Finest for Chicken 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 by way of a wood bridge, which additionally gives improbable views.
Though the pathway is paved, it could turn out to be just a little slippery after it’s been raining and the leaves have fallen. It’s probably the greatest hikes close to Tampa for wildlife and birdwatching, however it’s additionally an easy one for rookies. There’s plenty of shade too, which is welcome through the hotter summer season months.
Total, I believe this is likely one of the finest mountaineering trails in Tampa should you don’t wish to journey too distant from Downtown, however nonetheless wish to really feel such as you’re in the midst of nature. If in case you have an hour to spare, spend it right here.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Rocky Creek Park. Click on right here for extra info.
Size: 0.8km/0.5 miles
Period: 10 minutes
Sort of Path: Out & again
Elevation Acquire: 3 meters
Finest For: Fast stroll, rookies, nature, households
12. Temple Terrace Scout Park Loop (Finest for Surroundings)
No doubt, this is likely one of the finest summer season hikes in Tampa, and when all of the timber and flowers are in full bloom, it’s a sight to behold. It gained’t take too lengthy to finish this hike, round 20 minutes should you don’t cease alongside the way in which, however it’s value taking a leisurely tempo to completely admire the surroundings.
You’ll be able to take a picnic right here, though there aren’t many trash cans so at all times bear in mind to take packaging and any leftover meals with you. Whereas this can be a widespread spot, it by no means feels crowded so that you’ll definitely be capable of get away from all of it by visiting this space.
If you wish to totally immerse your self in nature, you may select to spend the night time underneath the celebrities as there’s a campsite accessible. 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 Data
Location: Temple Terrace Scout Park. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Size: 1.6km/1 mile
Period: 17 minutes
Sort of Path: Loop
Elevation Acquire: 1 meter
Finest For: Fast stroll, rookies, households, tenting
13. Picnic Island Loop (Finest for Seaside Strolling)
A lot of the Tampa mountaineering trails are both countryside environments or seashores, however the fantastic 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 enough strolling sneakers or sneakers.
You’ll be able to take this path at any time of the 12 months, however summer season will present you the most effective of the realm. You’ll be able to take a picnic right here, therefore the identify, however once more, at all times bear in mind to take your trash away with you. There’s a disc golf course midway alongside the route.
This path can get just a little busy through the weekends and public holidays, however it’s by no means uncomfortably crowded. There’s area to go folks alongside the way in which, however it isn’t really helpful for strollers or wheelchairs due to the uneven terrain.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Picnic Island Park. Click on right here for extra info.
Size: 3.4km/2 miles
Period: 40 minutes
Sort of Path: Loop
Elevation Acquire: 7 meters
Finest For: Intermediate, nature
14. City ‘N Nation Greenway (Finest for Searching for Solitude)
Regardless of the actual fact this path takes you previous a residential space, it feels very ‘out of the way in which,’ making it excellent for locating just a little peace and quiet or getting away from all of it. It’s probably the greatest quick Tampa day hikes should you’re a complete newbie as a result of the observe is paved and indicators clearly present you the way in which.
Like most mountaineering trails in Tampa, it’s appropriate for folks with strollers or wheelchairs, and you’ll take your canine, however once more, that you must hold them on a leash. There are lots of various kinds of timber which can be actually fascinating to discover and are residence to plenty of chicken species.
You’ll be able to park your automotive simply outdoors of the trailhead, however there are restricted areas accessible – it’s finest to reach early if attainable.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: City & Nation Park. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Size: 6.8km/4.2 miles
Period: 1 hour quarter-hour
Sort of Path: Out & again
Elevation Acquire: 16 meters
Finest For: Learners, households, nature
15. Harbour Island Coastal Stroll (Finest for Metropolis Strolling)
When you like your hikes a bit extra vibrant, I’d suggest this one. You’ll see loads of folks, though not so many who it feels crowded, and also you’ll take pleasure in some wonderful views. It’s probably the greatest 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 may paddle board alongside this route, however it’s merely an ideal alternative to take in the vibe of the town with out being proper in the midst of the hustle and bustle.
You’ll be able to relaxation alongside the way in which, because of strategically positioned benches, and there are a number of cafes at sure spots too.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Harbour Island. Click on right here for extra info.
Size: 3.2km/2 miles
Period: 35 minutes
Sort of Path: Out & again
Elevation Acquire: 5 meters
Finest For: Learners and concrete strolling
What to Pack for Hikes in Tampa
Now you understand of the most effective mountaineering in Tampa, you’ll have to know what to take with you. There aren’t any trails which can be thus far out into the wilderness that you simply’ll want particular tools, however it pays to have the fundamentals with you:
Suggestions for Mountain climbing 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 pointers. Comply with the following pointers, and also you’ll stay secure whereas having fun with the most effective the realm 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 would possibly encounter. Avoid water and don’t try to swim except indicators say you may; alligators can, and do, lurk. You also needs to spray your self liberally with mosquito repellant to keep away from undesirable bites.
It’s unlikely you’ll see a bear when you’re out and about, however it’s not extraordinary. 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 test the climate forecast earlier than you go, simply in case there are any storms predicted. If there are, it could be finest to reschedule.
Let Somebody Know The place You’re Going
That is fundamental frequent sense. When you’re heading out on a hike, let somebody know the place you’re going, be it a pal, member of the family, and even the lodge receptionist. Preserve your cellphone with you always, and ensure it’s totally charged earlier than you go.
The Trails Can Be Slippery
The very best treks in Tampa usually take you thru woodland and timber. That is advantageous in the summertime, but when it’s raining, particularly in winter, these tracks can turn out to be just a little slippery as a consequence of fallen leaves.
By no means be tempted to stroll in Tampa in flip-flops or summer season sneakers. Mountain climbing, strolling sneakers, or sneakers will provide you with the grip that you must keep in your ft.
Examine Whether or not Picnics Are Allowed
Most mountaineering trails in Tampa function picnic tables and spots the place you may eat, however not all. There can be indicators confirming what’s and isn’t allowed so ensure you test forward of time earlier than you’re taking a full picnic and intend to eat it someplace alongside the way in which.
It goes with out saying however, should you do have a picnic, ensure you take your entire trash with you. Depart the path as you discovered it.
Comply with Correct Path Etiquette
It’s simply good manners to step to the facet to let different folks go in the event that they’re strolling quicker than you. If somebody is strolling towards you, ensure you transfer apart to allow them to simply go. All the time be aware of the wildlife, and the natural world on the path sides.
Mountain climbing in Tampa: FAQs
Listed below are some solutions to regularly requested questions on mountaineering in Tampa, FL:
The very best 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 can even discover this very accessible.
There are some waterfall hikes in Tampa, however they’re just a little 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’s best to put on snug and supportive sneakers. You also needs to carry a light-weight rain jacket simply in case, and should you’re mountaineering in the summertime, ensure you have a hat to guard in opposition to the solar. Snug, unfastened clothes can also be advisable.
By no means. So long as you comply with directions and stick with the trail, mountaineering in Tampa is totally secure.
The very best hikes round Tampa vary from simple to average, so there aren’t any significantly tough trails across the space.
The MacDill Path is the most effective for households because it has a playground and plenty of amenities for households and kids.
In Closing
There are lots of 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 occurring a number of walks with a pal, 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 snug sneakers, and head on the market. You’ll be capable of take loads of images, burn off some energy, and whenever you return, you may take pleasure in an enormous meal – you’ll have definitely earned it!
