Top 5 Hikes
in Tampa, FL
Tampa's outdoor scene will surprise you — ancient river trails, mangrove wilderness, stunning waterfront walks, and gator-spotting adventures all within an easy drive. Here are the top 5 hikes and nature experiences around Tampa!
1. Hillsborough River State Park
(813) 987-6771
15402 US-301 N, Thonotosassa, FL 33592
Just 12 miles northeast of Tampa, Hillsborough River State Park is one of Florida's oldest and most beloved state parks — featuring seven miles of river trails, the only natural rapids in peninsular Florida, and a stunning suspension bridge through ancient cypress forest. Expect to spot alligators, otters, wood storks, and deer along the water's edge. Canoe and kayak rentals are available on-site for a lazy paddle through the wild. It's a full day of Old Florida outdoors just minutes from the city.
Visit Hillsborough River State Park
2. Weedon Island Preserve
(727) 453-6500
1800 Weedon Dr NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33702
A 3,700-acre coastal wilderness between Tampa Bay and St. Pete, Weedon Island offers miles of hiking through mangrove forests, salt marshes, and pine flatwoods teeming with birds and marine life. The elevated boardwalk stretches out over the bay with sweeping water views — one of the most serene walks in the entire Tampa Bay region. Kayak rentals let you paddle directly through the mangrove tunnels, and the free Cultural Center tells the story of thousands of years of Indigenous life on the island. Feels a million miles away even though downtown St. Pete is minutes away.
Visit Weedon Island Preserve
3. Tampa Riverwalk
Tampa, FL 33602
Downtown along the Hillsborough River
The Tampa Riverwalk is a free 2.6-mile landscaped path hugging the Hillsborough River through the heart of downtown, connecting Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, the Tampa Museum of Art, Armature Works, and Sparkman Wharf. It's dog-friendly, bike-friendly, scooter-friendly, and absolutely beautiful — especially around golden hour when the skyline reflects in the river. On weekends the whole stretch comes alive with food trucks, outdoor events, and live music. The perfect way to explore downtown Tampa without getting in a car.
Explore the Tampa Riverwalk
4. Lettuce Lake Regional Park
(813) 987-6204
6920 E Fletcher Ave, Tampa, FL 33637
Lettuce Lake is one of Tampa's best-kept secrets — a 240-acre cypress swamp park along the Hillsborough River where alligators, herons, and river otters are regulars along the famous elevated boardwalk. The half-mile boardwalk winds through ancient cypress-tupelo swamp, and the observation tower at the end delivers sweeping canopy views you won't forget. Trails extend through the full park for walking, running, and cycling, and kayak rentals get you out on the water. Admission is just $2 per vehicle — one of the best outdoor deals in Florida.
Visit Lettuce Lake Park
5. Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve
(813) 987-6209
Off Morris Bridge Rd, Thonotosassa, FL 33592
For hikers who want to go truly off the beaten path, this 16,000-acre floodplain wilderness protects a pristine stretch of the Hillsborough River with 16 miles of trails through forest and swamp that feel completely wild. The paddling is world-class — kayak or canoe beneath a canopy of oaks, cypress, and palms with no development in sight and abundant wildlife around every bend. Deer, wild turkey, otters, alligators, and even black bears have been spotted here. Morris Bridge Park serves as the main launch point with a boat ramp, picnic areas, and trailheads.
Visit Lower Hillsborough Preserve