Having fun with town is one factor, however each every so often, it’s at all times good to get out into nature and breathe in some recent air. The excellent news is, that many mountain climbing trails in Tampa help you just do that. Even higher is that almost all are perfect for novices – if I can do it, anybody can.
Mountain climbing in Tampa wasn’t on my radar till I’d visited town a couple of instances already. However then I spotted that there was a lot to discover exterior of town itself. So, a good friend recommended we go mountain climbing for the day, and I’m so glad I agreed.
There are numerous mountain climbing trails inside, and simply exterior, town and so they all present you the fantastic thing about the world from beforehand unseen views. From wildlife to wild coastal views, shady tree canopies to limitless inexperienced, it is best to actually find time for somewhat strolling throughout your go to.
15 Finest Hikes in Tampa
There are extra mountain climbing 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 mountain climbing 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 novices and intermediate walkers, coastal views, nature, wildlife, and treks with loads of amenities alongside the best way. The one factor you must do is figure out which one you’ll take first.
1. Tampa Riverwalk (Finest for New Arrivals to Tampa)
You may not take into account it a trek, nevertheless 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 affords loads of house to relaxation and sit down if you want a break.
You’ll cross by means of six inexperienced parks, and there are sights alongside the best way corresponding to museums and eating places. In essence, you may not even really feel such as you’re on a trek, however your legs will certainly burn by the tip of the day.
The Riverwalk is definitely accessible for these in a wheelchair and households with strollers. It may get somewhat busy at sure instances of the day however early within the morning and later within the day you possibly can typically stroll with out hindrance. For me, that is the most effective path for individuals who have simply arrived and need to get their bearings.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Channelside/Downtown Tampa. Click here for more information.
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
Kind of Path: Out & again
Elevation Achieve: 16 meters
Finest For: Newcomers, 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 mountain climbing trails in Tampa. The views alongside the stroll are stunning, stretching proper over the bay and past. When you’re a hen 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.
When you’re on the lookout for simple hikes round Tampa that provide you with loads of wow issue moments, I’d advocate this one. It’s a comparatively easy hike, though fairly lengthy; you’ll encounter many different individuals working and biking too. The hike can 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 positively a hike with loads of picture alternatives.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Courtney Campbell Causeway. Click here for more information.
Size: 25.9km/16 miles
Length: 4.5 hours
Kind of Path: Out & again
Elevation Achieve: 17 meters
Finest For: Runners, households, novices, canine house owners (canine should be on a leash)
3. Bayshore Boulevard (Finest for Runners)
When you don’t need to stroll, and maybe desire to run and get loads of train, this is without doubt one of the finest Tampa trails for you. That being stated, you don’t have to run; Bayshore Boulevard is a superb spot to stroll slowly and take your time.
You’ll cross alongside the sting of the Hillsborough River, and there are many spots to sit down and take a relaxation. The paved space is kind of vast, so individuals can simply cross you should you’re strolling and so they’re working. I loved this path, and it was a welcome break from the noise of Downtown.
You possibly can 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 a number of free house for youngsters to run, and the water’s edge could possibly be somewhat nerve-wracking.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: 10 minutes exterior of Downtown. Click here for more information.
Size: 13.5km/8.4 miles
Length: 2.5 hours
Kind of Path: Out & again
Elevation Achieve: 9 meters
Finest For: Runners, cyclists, novices
4. Al Lopez Park Path (Finest for Canine House owners)
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 town. This is without doubt one of the finest mountain climbing trails in Tampa for canine house owners, as there’s loads of open house, so that you’re not unlikely to come across a number of different canine in a small space.
The river runs by means of the center of the park with picturesque wood bridges crossing over, framed by cascading bushes. I did this trek when it was somewhat wet, and it was nonetheless actually fulfilling; the scent of the bushes within the air was so refreshing.
You’ll discover picnic seashores all through the park, and it’s a great place for these pushing strollers or wheelchair customers. When you’re on the lookout for trekking in Tampa alternatives as a newbie, I’d counsel you give this one a strive.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Al Lopez Park, quarter-hour from Downtown. Click here for more information.
Size: 1.8km/1 mile
Length: 20 minutes
Kind of Path: Loop
Elevation Achieve: 1 meter
Finest For: Newcomers, households, fast walks, canine house owners
5. Flatwoods Loop Path (Finest for Newcomers)
This is without doubt one of the finest locations to hike in Tampa for novices. The entire path is somewhat lengthy, nevertheless it’s doable in a couple of hours, and also you don’t must stroll all of it should you don’t need to. The surroundings can be stunning, with numerous bushes and the freshest air doable.
I did this path throughout the winter months, and it was such a revitalizing change from being surrounded by site visitors. It’s a semi-busy path, so you will notice different individuals, nevertheless it’s by no means overly crowded. It’s additionally paved all the best way so is right for strollers and wheelchairs.
When you’re doing the path throughout the summer season months, you’ll discover many water stations across the edge, so be sure to rehydrate each time you possibly can.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Flatwoods Wilderness Park. Click here for more information.
Size: 17.7km/11 miles
Length: 3 hours 10 minutes
Kind of Path: Loop
Elevation Achieve: 18 meters
Finest For: Newcomers and households
6. Lettuce Lake Park Boardwalk (Finest for Pushing a Stroller)
When you’re on the lookout for Tampa strolling trails that can hold little ones occupied, this can be a nice selection. There’s an commentary tower midway round which children will love exploring, and the views are unbelievable. It’s additionally paved the entire method round, so one other path that’s appropriate for strollers.
I noticed numerous wildlife on this path, and should you’re into hen watching, you’ll actually get pleasure from this spot. Nonetheless, this park does shut throughout dangerous climate, particularly in winter, so it’s finest to examine 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 possibly can wander slowly and cease for a picnic.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Lettuce Lake Regional Park. Click here for more details.
Size: 1km/0.6 miles
Length: 11 minutes
Kind of Path: Loop
Elevation Achieve: 2 meters
Finest For: Newcomers, 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 chill out. That’s precisely how I’d describe this trek. Not solely are you surrounded by lush greenery at each flip nevertheless it’s a high Tampa trek for fauna and flora fans.
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 without doubt one of the mountain climbing trails in Tampa that’s appropriate for full novices 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 best way.
For me, the most effective factor to do is get pleasure from being Mom Nature’s arms. This path is perhaps quick, nevertheless it’s a unbelievable option to unwind.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Eureka Springs Park. Click here for more details.
Size: 0.8km/0.5 miles
Length: 10 minutes
Kind of Path: Loop
Elevation Achieve: 1 meter
Finest For: Newcomers, 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 possibly can go to this space all yr spherical, nevertheless it’s merely stunning throughout the summer season months. You’ll want snug footwear for this one and in the summertime, a hat, and loads of solar lotion and water.
You’ll make your method by means of lush, forested areas and swampland – (whereas there aren’t any reviews of alligator points right here, I don’t advocate you get within the water). Nonetheless, you will notice a number of totally different wildflowers, which make for great images.
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 Data
Location: Cypress Creek Reserve. Click here for more information.
Size: 6.4km/4 miles
Length: 1.5 hours
Kind of Path: Loop
Elevation Achieve: 7 meters
Finest For: Intermediate hikers, wildlife
9. Higher Tampa Bay Eagle Path (Finest for Wildlife)
This is without doubt one of the finest hikes round Tampa for trying out wildlife, specifically, birdwatching. It’s a reasonably simple stroll, and the bottom is made up of wood boards, which might generally grow to be somewhat slippery if it’s been raining; be sure you put on good footwear with an acceptable grip.
There are benches at varied factors alongside the best way for resting, and it’s a reasonably quick path, so you possibly can take your time and discover correctly. Spend a while on the commentary deck because the view is solely great and is right for images.
Weekends can get fairly busy on this path, however should you go throughout the week you’ll virtually have all the place to your self.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Higher Tampa Bay Park. Click here for more details.
Size: 1.1km/0.7 miles
Length: 12 minutes
Kind of Path: Out & again
Elevation Achieve: 2 meters
Finest For: Fast stroll, novices, households, nature
10. MacDill Path (Finest for Households)
That is the most effective Tampa mountain climbing 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 varieties of birds, and open sports activities fields too.
This path is paved the entire method round so it’s very best for households with strollers and people in wheelchairs. You possibly can take your canine 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 bushes makes you are feeling such as you’re lots farther from town than you actually are.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Gadsden Park. Click here for more details.
Size: 2.4km/1.5 miles
Length: half-hour
Kind of Path: Loop
Elevation Achieve: 3 meters
Finest For: Newcomers, 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 means of the center of the park, and also you cross over by way of a wood bridge, which additionally affords unbelievable views.
Though the pathway is paved, it might probably grow to be somewhat 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, nevertheless it’s additionally an easy one for novices. There’s a number of shade too, which is welcome throughout the hotter summer season months.
General, I believe this is without doubt one of the finest mountain climbing trails in Tampa should you don’t need to journey too far-off from Downtown, however nonetheless need to really feel such as you’re in the course of nature. When you’ve got an hour to spare, spend it right here.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Rocky Creek Park. Click here for more information.
Size: 0.8km/0.5 miles
Length: 10 minutes
Kind of Path: Out & again
Elevation Achieve: 3 meters
Finest For: Fast stroll, novices, nature, households
12. Temple Terrace Scout Park Loop (Finest for Surroundings)
Surely, this is without doubt one of the finest 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 should you don’t cease alongside the best way, nevertheless it’s price taking a leisurely tempo to totally admire the surroundings.
You possibly can 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 actually be capable to get away from all of it by visiting this space.
If you wish to absolutely immerse your self in nature, you possibly can select to spend the evening beneath the celebrities as there’s a campsite accessible. It’s topic to availability because it’s utilized by native scout teams, so be sure you enquire earlier than pitching up!
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Temple Terrace Scout Park. Click here for more details.
Size: 1.6km/1 mile
Length: 17 minutes
Kind of Path: Loop
Elevation Achieve: 1 meter
Finest For: Fast stroll, novices, households, tenting
13. Picnic Island Loop (Finest for Seaside Strolling)
A lot of the Tampa mountain climbing trails are both countryside environments or seashores, however the fantastic thing about this explicit hike is that it combines each. The draw back is that the route isn’t paved so that you’ll positively want sufficient strolling footwear or sneakers.
You possibly can take this path at any time of the yr, however summer season will present you the most effective of the world. You possibly can 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 somewhat busy throughout the weekends and public holidays, nevertheless it’s by no means uncomfortably crowded. There’s house to cross individuals alongside the best way, nevertheless it isn’t really helpful for strollers or wheelchairs due to the uneven terrain.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Picnic Island Park. Click here for more information.
Size: 3.4km/2 miles
Length: 40 minutes
Kind of Path: Loop
Elevation Achieve: 7 meters
Finest For: Intermediate, nature
14. City ‘N Nation Greenway (Finest for Looking for Solitude)
Regardless of the very fact this path takes you previous a residential space, it feels very ‘out of the best way,’ making it very best for locating somewhat peace and quiet or getting away from all of it. It’s top-of-the-line quick Tampa day hikes should you’re a complete newbie as a result of the observe is paved and indicators clearly present you the best way.
Like most mountain climbing trails in Tampa, it’s appropriate for individuals with strollers or wheelchairs, and you may take your canine, however once more, you must hold them on a leash. There are numerous several types of bushes which can be actually attention-grabbing to discover and are dwelling to a number of hen species.
You possibly can park your automotive simply exterior of the trailhead, however there are restricted areas accessible – it’s finest to reach early if doable.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: City & Nation Park. Click here for more details.
Size: 6.8km/4.2 miles
Length: 1 hour quarter-hour
Kind of Path: Out & again
Elevation Achieve: 16 meters
Finest For: Newcomers, households, nature
15. Harbour Island Coastal Stroll (Finest for Metropolis Strolling)
When you like your hikes a bit extra vibrant, I’d advocate this one. You’ll see loads of individuals, though not so many who it feels crowded, and also you’ll get pleasure from some superb 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, nevertheless it’s merely an excellent alternative to take in the vibe of town with out being proper in the course of the hustle and bustle.
You possibly can relaxation alongside the best way, due to strategically positioned benches, and there are a couple of cafes at sure spots too.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Harbour Island. Click here for more information.
Size: 3.2km/2 miles
Length: 35 minutes
Kind of Path: Out & again
Elevation Achieve: 5 meters
Finest For: Newcomers and concrete strolling
What to Pack for Hikes in Tampa
Now you realize of the most effective mountain climbing in Tampa, you’ll have to know what to take with you. There aren’t any trails which can be to date out into the wilderness that you simply’ll want particular gear, nevertheless 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 primary tips. Comply with the following tips, and also you’ll stay protected whereas having fun with the most effective the world has to supply:
Be Animal Conscious
You’re not going to be heading into excessive wilderness, nevertheless it pays to grasp the kind of wildlife you may encounter. Steer clear of water and don’t try and swim until indicators say you possibly can; 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 whilst you’re out and about, nevertheless 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 peak, and make a number of noise, as you proceed backing away.
Test The Climate Earlier than Heading Out
Most mountain climbing 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 examine the climate forecast earlier than you go, simply in case there are any storms predicted. If there are, it is perhaps finest to reschedule.
Let Somebody Know The place You’re Going
That is primary widespread sense. When you’re heading out on a hike, let somebody know the place you’re going, be it a good friend, member of the family, and even the resort receptionist. Preserve your cellphone with you always, and ensure it’s absolutely charged earlier than you go.
The Trails Can Be Slippery
The most effective treks in Tampa typically take you thru woodland and bushes. That is superb in the summertime, but when it’s raining, particularly in winter, these tracks can grow to be somewhat slippery on account of fallen leaves.
By no means be tempted to stroll in Tampa in flip-flops or summer season footwear. Mountain climbing, strolling footwear, or sneakers will provide you with the grip you must keep in your ft.
Test Whether or not Picnics Are Allowed
Most mountain climbing trails in Tampa function picnic tables and spots the place you possibly can eat, however not all. There shall be indicators confirming what’s and isn’t allowed so be sure to examine 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, should you do have a picnic, be sure to 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 aspect to let different individuals cross in the event that they’re strolling sooner than you. If somebody is strolling towards you, be sure to transfer apart to allow them to simply cross. At all times be conscious of the wildlife, and the natural world on the path sides.
Mountain climbing in Tampa: FAQs
Listed below are some solutions to steadily requested questions on mountain climbing 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 straightforward 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 somewhat additional out and are extra appropriate for superior hikers. The closest is Falling Creek Falls which is 2.5 hours away from Tampa.
Most mountain climbing trails in Tampa are paved, however it is best to put on snug and supportive footwear. You also needs to carry a lightweight rain jacket simply in case, and should you’re mountain climbing in the summertime, be sure to have a hat to guard in opposition to the solar. Snug, unfastened clothes can be advisable.
Under no circumstances. So long as you comply with directions and stick with the trail, mountain climbing in Tampa is totally protected.
The most effective hikes round Tampa vary from simple to reasonable, so there aren’t any significantly troublesome 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 youngsters.
In Closing
There are numerous mountain climbing trails in Tampa, and all of them provide unequalled 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 couple of walks with a good friend, 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 footwear, and head on the market. You’ll be capable to take loads of images, burn off some energy, and if you return, you possibly can get pleasure from an enormous meal – you’ll have actually earned it!
