Having fun with town is one factor, however each from time to time, it’s at all times good to get out into nature and breathe in some recent air. The excellent news is, that many climbing trails in Tampa permit you to do exactly that. Even higher is that almost all are perfect for learners – if I can do it, anybody can.
Mountaineering in Tampa wasn’t on my radar till I’d visited town a number of occasions already. However then I noticed that there was a lot to discover outdoors of town itself. So, a good friend advised we go climbing for the day, and I’m so glad I agreed.
There are numerous climbing trails inside, and simply outdoors, town they usually all present you the fantastic thing about the world from beforehand unseen views. From wildlife to wild coastal views, shady tree canopies to infinite inexperienced, it is best to actually find time for a little bit strolling throughout your go to.
15 Finest Hikes in Tampa
There are extra climbing trails in Tampa than you may understand, and that’s the place some insider information is available in very helpful. Since my first introduction to climbing 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 learners and intermediate walkers, coastal views, nature, wildlife, and treks with loads of services alongside the best way. The one factor you might want to do is figure out which one you’ll take first.
1. Tampa Riverwalk (Finest for New Arrivals to Tampa)
You may not contemplate it a trek, however it’s fairly lengthy and due to this fact 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 relaxed distance. It provides loads of area to relaxation and sit if you want a break.
You’ll move by means of six inexperienced parks, and there are points of interest alongside the best way equivalent 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 top of the day.
The Riverwalk is well accessible for these in a wheelchair and households with strollers. It could possibly get a little bit busy at sure occasions of the day however early within the morning and later within the day you possibly can usually stroll with out hindrance. For me, that is one of the best 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 data.
Size: 7.7km/4.8 miles
Period: 1.5 hours with out stopping, however there’s lots to maintain you occupied alongside the best way – take your time
Kind of Path: Out & again
Elevation Acquire: 16 meters
Finest For: Newbies, 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 climbing trails in Tampa. The views alongside the stroll are stunning, stretching proper over the bay and past. In the event you’re a chook 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.
In the event you’re in search of straightforward 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 individuals 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 photograph alternatives.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Courtney Campbell Causeway. Click on right here for extra data.
Size: 25.9km/16 miles
Period: 4.5 hours
Kind of Path: Out & again
Elevation Acquire: 17 meters
Finest For: Runners, households, learners, canine homeowners (canines should be on a leash)
3. Bayshore Boulevard (Finest for Runners)
In the event you don’t wish to stroll, and maybe choose to run and get loads of train, this is without doubt one of the greatest 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 move alongside the sting of the Hillsborough River, and there are many spots to sit down and take a relaxation. The paved space is sort of vast, so individuals can simply move you should you’re strolling they usually’re operating. 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 quite a lot of free area for youngsters to run, and the water’s edge might be a little bit nerve-wracking.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: 10 minutes outdoors of Downtown. Click on right here for extra data.
Size: 13.5km/8.4 miles
Period: 2.5 hours
Kind of Path: Out & again
Elevation Acquire: 9 meters
Finest For: Runners, cyclists, learners
4. Al Lopez Park Path (Finest for Canine Homeowners)
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, distant from town. This is without doubt one of the greatest climbing trails in Tampa for canine homeowners, as there’s loads of open area, so that you’re not unlikely to come across quite a lot of different canines 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 a little bit wet, and it was nonetheless actually gratifying; 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 spot for these pushing strollers or wheelchair customers. In the event 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 data.
Size: 1.8km/1 mile
Period: 20 minutes
Kind of Path: Loop
Elevation Acquire: 1 meter
Finest For: Newbies, households, fast walks, canine homeowners
5. Flatwoods Loop Path (Finest for Newbies)
This is without doubt one of the greatest locations to hike in Tampa for learners. The whole path is a little bit lengthy, however it’s doable in a number of hours, and also you don’t should stroll all of it should you don’t wish to. The surroundings can also be stunning, with numerous bushes and the freshest air potential.
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 note different individuals, however it’s by no means overly crowded. It’s additionally paved all the best way so is right for strollers and wheelchairs.
In the event you’re doing the path through the summer season months, you’ll discover many water stations across the edge, so ensure you rehydrate every time you possibly can.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Flatwoods Wilderness Park. Click on right here for extra data.
Size: 17.7km/11 miles
Period: 3 hours 10 minutes
Kind of Path: Loop
Elevation Acquire: 18 meters
Finest For: Newbies and households
6. Lettuce Lake Park Boardwalk (Finest for Pushing a Stroller)
In the event you’re in search of Tampa strolling trails that can maintain little ones occupied, this can be a nice alternative. There’s an remark tower midway round which youngsters will love exploring, and the views are unbelievable. It’s additionally paved the entire means round, so one other path that’s appropriate for strollers.
I noticed numerous wildlife on this path, and should you’re into chook watching, you’ll actually get pleasure from this spot. Nevertheless, this park does shut throughout unhealthy climate, particularly in winter, so it’s greatest to verify 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 on right here for extra particulars.
Size: 1km/0.6 miles
Period: 11 minutes
Kind of Path: Loop
Elevation Acquire: 2 meters
Finest For: Newbies, households, fast stroll, wildlife
7. Eureka Springs Boardwalk (Finest for Leisure)
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 however it’s a prime Tampa trek for fauna and flora lovers.
In the event you drive into this park earlier than beginning the path, you’ll have to pay a small cost per automobile, nevertheless, there’s loads of parking obtainable. This is without doubt one of the climbing trails in Tampa that’s appropriate for full learners as a result of it’s quick and flat. Regardless of it being very straightforward to finish, it has quite a bit to maintain you occupied alongside the best way.
For me, one of the best factor to do is get pleasure from being Mom Nature’s arms. This path may be quick, however it’s a unbelievable 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
Kind of Path: Loop
Elevation Acquire: 1 meter
Finest For: Newbies, 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 12 months spherical, however it’s merely stunning through the summer season months. You’ll want comfy sneakers for this one and in the summertime, a hat, and loads of solar lotion and water.
You’ll make your means by means of lush, forested areas and swampland – (whereas there aren’t any reviews of alligator points right here, I don’t suggest you get within the water). Nevertheless, you will note a lot of completely different wildflowers, which make for great images.
The excellent news is that the bushes supply a great 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 data.
Size: 6.4km/4 miles
Period: 1.5 hours
Kind of Path: Loop
Elevation Acquire: 7 meters
Finest For: Intermediate hikers, wildlife
9. Higher Tampa Bay Eagle Path (Finest for Wildlife)
This is without doubt one of the greatest hikes round Tampa for testing wildlife, particularly, birdwatching. It’s a fairly straightforward stroll, and the bottom is made up of wood boards, which might generally turn out to be a little bit slippery if it’s been raining; make sure to put on good sneakers with an acceptable grip.
There are benches at numerous factors alongside the best way for resting, and it’s a fairly quick path, so you possibly can take your time and discover correctly. Spend a while on the remark deck because the view is solely great and is right for images.
Weekends can get fairly busy on this path, however should you go through the week you’ll nearly have the complete 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
Kind of Path: Out & again
Elevation Acquire: 2 meters
Finest For: Fast stroll, learners, households, nature
10. MacDill Path (Finest for Households)
That is one of the best Tampa climbing spot for households as there’s a playground the place youngsters 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 means round so it’s supreme for households with strollers and people in wheelchairs. You possibly can take your canines alongside this route, however you’ll have to maintain 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 big variety of bushes makes you’re feeling such as you’re quite a bit farther from 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
Kind of Path: Loop
Elevation Acquire: 3 meters
Finest For: Newbies, fast stroll, households
11. Rocky Creek Park Path (Finest for Chook Watching)
I’m particularly keen on this path, primarily for the quantity of various birds I noticed after I went. The river flows by means of the center of the park, and also you cross over through a wood bridge, which additionally provides unbelievable views.
Though the pathway is paved, it may well turn out to be a little bit slippery after it’s been raining and the leaves have fallen. It’s among the finest hikes close to Tampa for wildlife and birdwatching, however it’s additionally an easy one for learners. There’s a lot of shade too, which is welcome through the hotter summer season months.
Total, I feel this is without doubt one of the greatest climbing 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. When you have an hour to spare, spend it right here.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Rocky Creek Park. Click on right here for extra data.
Size: 0.8km/0.5 miles
Period: 10 minutes
Kind of Path: Out & again
Elevation Acquire: 3 meters
Finest For: Fast stroll, learners, nature, households
12. Temple Terrace Scout Park Loop (Finest for Surroundings)
For sure, this is without doubt one of the greatest summer season hikes in Tampa, and when all of the bushes 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 best way, however it’s value 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 keep in mind to take packaging and any leftover meals with you. Whereas this can be a in style 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 totally immerse your self in nature, you possibly can select to spend the evening beneath the celebs as there’s a campsite obtainable. It’s topic to availability because it’s utilized by native scout teams, so make sure 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
Kind of Path: Loop
Elevation Acquire: 1 meter
Finest For: Fast stroll, learners, households, tenting
13. Picnic Island Loop (Finest for Seaside Strolling)
A lot of the Tampa climbing 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 sufficient strolling sneakers or sneakers.
You possibly can take this path at any time of the 12 months, however summer season will present you one of the best of the world. You possibly can take a picnic right here, therefore the title, however once more, at all times keep in mind to take your trash away with you. There’s a disc golf course midway alongside the route.
This path can get a little bit busy through the weekends and public holidays, however it’s by no means uncomfortably crowded. There’s area to move individuals alongside the best way, 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 data.
Size: 3.4km/2 miles
Period: 40 minutes
Kind of Path: Loop
Elevation Acquire: 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 supreme for locating a little bit peace and quiet or getting away from all of it. It’s among the finest 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 climbing trails in Tampa, it’s appropriate for individuals with strollers or wheelchairs, and you’ll take your canine, however once more, you might want to maintain them on a leash. There are numerous several types of bushes which might be actually fascinating to discover and are residence to quite a lot of chook species.
You possibly can park your automobile simply outdoors of the trailhead, however there are restricted areas obtainable – it’s greatest to reach early if potential.
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
Kind of Path: Out & again
Elevation Acquire: 16 meters
Finest For: Newbies, households, nature
15. Harbour Island Coastal Stroll (Finest for Metropolis Strolling)
In the event you like your hikes a bit extra vibrant, I’d suggest this one. You’ll see loads of individuals, though not so many who it feels crowded, and also you’ll get pleasure from some wonderful views. It’s among the finest 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, however it’s merely an amazing alternative to absorb the vibe of town with out being proper in the midst of the hustle and bustle.
You possibly can relaxation alongside the best way, due to 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 data.
Size: 3.2km/2 miles
Period: 35 minutes
Kind of Path: Out & again
Elevation Acquire: 5 meters
Finest For: Newbies and concrete strolling
What to Pack for Hikes in Tampa
Now you realize of one of the best climbing in Tampa, you’ll have to know what to take with you. There aren’t any trails which might be up to now out into the wilderness that you just’ll want particular tools, however it pays to have the fundamentals with you:
Ideas for Mountaineering in Tampa
Most day hikes round Tampa are fairly straightforward and never too lengthy, however that doesn’t imply you don’t want to stay to some primary tips. Observe the following tips, and also you’ll stay protected whereas having fun with one of the best the world 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 may encounter. Keep away from water and don’t try to 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 when you’re out and about, however it’s not exceptional. 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 quite a lot of noise, as you proceed backing away.
Test The Climate Earlier than Heading Out
Most climbing trails in Tampa supply a great 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 verify the climate forecast earlier than you go, simply in case there are any storms predicted. If there are, it may be greatest to reschedule.
Let Somebody Know The place You’re Going
That is primary widespread sense. In the event 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. Hold your telephone 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 bushes. That is tremendous in the summertime, but when it’s raining, particularly in winter, these tracks can turn out to be a little bit slippery resulting from fallen leaves.
By no means be tempted to stroll in Tampa in flip-flops or summer season sneakers. Mountaineering, strolling sneakers, or sneakers offers you the grip you might want to keep in your ft.
Test Whether or not Picnics Are Allowed
Most climbing trails in Tampa characteristic picnic tables and spots the place you possibly can eat, however not all. There will likely be indicators confirming what’s and isn’t allowed so ensure you verify 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, ensure you take your entire trash with you. Depart the path as you discovered it.
Observe Correct Path Etiquette
It’s simply good manners to step to the aspect to let different individuals move in the event that they’re strolling sooner than you. If somebody is strolling towards you, ensure you transfer apart to allow them to simply move. At all times be aware of the wildlife, and the natural world on the path sides.
Mountaineering in Tampa: FAQs
Listed here are some solutions to continuously requested questions on climbing 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 straightforward hike that can go well with most individuals. Wheelchair customers and households with strollers may even discover this very accessible.
There are some waterfall hikes in Tampa, however they’re a little bit additional out and are extra appropriate for superior hikers. The closest is Falling Creek Falls which is 2.5 hours away from Tampa.
Most climbing trails in Tampa are paved, however it is best to put on comfy and supportive sneakers. You also needs to carry a lightweight rain jacket simply in case, and should you’re climbing in the summertime, ensure you have a hat to guard in opposition to the solar. Comfy, free clothes can also be advisable.
Under no circumstances. So long as you observe directions and stick with the trail, climbing in Tampa is totally protected.
The very best hikes round Tampa vary from straightforward to reasonable, so there aren’t any notably tough trails across the space.
The MacDill Path is one of the best for households because it has a playground and plenty of services for households and youngsters.
In Closing
There are numerous climbing trails in Tampa, and all of them supply 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 occurring a number 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 comfy sneakers, 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!
