aving 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 climbing trails in Tampa assist you to just do that. Even higher is that almost all are perfect for freshmen – if I can do it, anybody can.
Climbing trails in Tampa wasn’t on my radar till I’d visited the town a couple of instances already. However then I spotted that there was a lot to discover exterior of the town itself. So, a buddy prompt we go climbing trails in Tampa for the day, and I’m so glad I agreed.
There are numerous climbing trails inside, and simply exterior, the 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 infinite inexperienced, you must definitely find time for a bit of strolling throughout your go to.
15 Climbing Trails in Tampa
There are extra climbing trails in Tampa than you may notice, and that’s the place some insider information is available in very helpful. Since my first introduction to climbing trails in Tampa 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 freshmen and intermediate walkers, coastal views, nature, wildlife, and treks with loads of services alongside the way in which. The one factor you’ll want to do is figure out which one you’ll take first.
1. Tampa Riverwalk (Greatest for New Arrivals to Tampa)
You may not take into account 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 peaceful distance. It presents loads of area to relaxation and sit if you want a break.
You’ll cross via six inexperienced parks, and there are sights alongside the way in which 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 definitely accessible for these in a wheelchair and households with strollers. It may possibly get a bit of 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 perfect path for individuals who have simply arrived and need to get their bearings.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Channelside/Downtown Tampa.
Size: 7.7km/4.8 miles
Period: 1.5 hours with out stopping, however there’s loads to maintain you occupied alongside the way in which – take your time
Sort of Path: Out & again
Elevation Achieve: 16 meters
Greatest For: Rookies, households, {couples}
2. Courtney Campbell Causeway West Path (Greatest 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. Should you’re a hen lover, you’ll discover many species of birds make an look alongside the way in which, and there are locations you possibly can cease and observe them and their actions.
Should you’re on the lookout for simple hikes round Tampa that offer you 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 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.
Size: 25.9km/16 miles
Period: 4.5 hours
Sort of Path: Out & again
Elevation Achieve: 17 meters
Greatest For: Runners, households, freshmen, canine house owners (canine have to be on a leash)
3. Bayshore Boulevard (Greatest for Runners)
Should you don’t need to stroll, and maybe favor to run and get loads of train, this is without doubt one of the finest Tampa trails for you. That being mentioned, 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 take a seat and take a relaxation. The paved space is kind of large, so individuals can simply cross you in the event 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 in the event you select, however they have to be on a leash always. It’s not the best 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 bit of nerve-wracking.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: 10 minutes exterior of Downtown.
Size: 13.5km/8.4 miles
Period: 2.5 hours
Sort of Path: Out & again
Elevation Achieve: 9 meters
Greatest For: Runners, cyclists, freshmen
4. Al Lopez Park Path (Greatest for Canine Homeowners)
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, far-off from the town. This is without doubt one of the finest climbing trails in Tampa for canine house owners, as there’s loads of open area, so that you’re not unlikely to come across quite a lot of different canine in a small space.
The river runs via the center of the park with picturesque wood bridges crossing over, framed by cascading bushes. I did this trek when it was a bit of 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. Should 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.
Size: 1.8km/1 mile
Period: 20 minutes
Sort of Path: Loop
Elevation Achieve: 1 meter
Greatest For: Rookies, households, fast walks, canine house owners
5. Flatwoods Loop Path (Greatest for Rookies)
This is without doubt one of the finest locations to hike in Tampa for freshmen. The whole path is a bit of lengthy, however it’s doable in a couple of hours, and also you don’t need to stroll all of it in the event you don’t need to. The surroundings can be stunning, with numerous bushes and the freshest air attainable.
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 note different individuals, however it’s by no means overly crowded. It’s additionally paved all the way in which so is right for strollers and wheelchairs.
Should you’re doing the path throughout the summer season months, you’ll discover many water stations across the edge, so be sure to rehydrate at any time when you possibly can.
Watch it – 10-Scenic-Climbing-Trails-in-Tampa
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Flatwoods Wilderness Park.
Size: 17.7km/11 miles
Period: 3 hours 10 minutes
Sort of Path: Loop
Elevation Achieve: 18 meters
Greatest For: Rookies and households
6. Lettuce Lake Park Boardwalk (Greatest for Pushing a Stroller)
Should you’re on the lookout for 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 implausible. It’s additionally paved the entire means round, so one other path that’s appropriate for strollers.
I noticed various wildlife on this path, and in the event 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.
Size: 1km/0.6 miles
Period: 11 minutes
Sort of Path: Loop
Elevation Achieve: 2 meters
Greatest For: Rookies, households, fast stroll, wildlife
7. Eureka Springs Boardwalk (Greatest for Leisure)
They are saying that if you’re round nature, you possibly can’t assist however calm down. 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.
Should you drive into this park earlier than beginning the path, you’ll have to pay a small cost per car, nevertheless, there’s loads of parking accessible. This is without doubt one of the climbing trails in Tampa that’s appropriate for full freshmen as a result of it’s brief and flat. Regardless of it being very simple to finish, it has quite a bit to maintain you occupied alongside the way in which.
For me, the perfect factor to do is get pleasure from being Mom Nature’s arms. This path is likely to be brief, however it’s a implausible approach to unwind.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Eureka Springs Park.
Size: 0.8km/0.5 miles
Period: 10 minutes
Sort of Path: Loop
Elevation Achieve: 1 meter
Greatest For: Rookies, fast walks, nature
8. Lizards Tail (Greatest 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 yr spherical, however 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 means via lush, forested areas and swampland – (whereas there aren’t any studies of alligator points right here, I don’t suggest you get within the water). Nonetheless, you will note a number of totally different wildflowers, which make for fantastic pictures.
The excellent news is that the bushes provide an excellent 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.
Size: 6.4km/4 miles
Period: 1.5 hours
Sort of Path: Loop
Elevation Achieve: 7 meters
Greatest For: Intermediate hikers, wildlife
9. Higher Tampa Bay Eagle Path (Greatest for Wildlife)
This is without doubt one of the finest hikes round Tampa for trying out wildlife, particularly, birdwatching. It’s a reasonably simple stroll, and the bottom is made up of wood boards, which might generally turn out to be a bit of slippery if it’s been raining; remember to put on good footwear with an acceptable grip.
There are benches at varied factors alongside the way in which for resting, and it’s a reasonably brief path, so you possibly can take your time and discover correctly. Spend a while on the remark deck because the view is solely fantastic and is right for pictures.
Weekends can get fairly busy on this path, however in the event you go throughout the week you’ll nearly have the whole place to your self.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Higher Tampa Bay Park.
Size: 1.1km/0.7 miles
Period: 12 minutes
Sort of Path: Out & again
Elevation Achieve: 2 meters
Greatest For: Fast stroll, freshmen, households, nature
10. MacDill Path (Greatest for Households)
That is the perfect climbing trails in Tampa spot for households as there’s a playground the place youngsters can run free and picnic areas alongside the way in which. There’s a picturesque lake midway round, and also you’ll see many sorts of birds, and open sports activities fields too.
This path is paved the entire means round so it’s splendid for households with strollers and people in wheelchairs. You’ll be able to take your canine 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 are feeling such as you’re quite a bit farther from the town than you actually are.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Gadsden Park.
Size: 2.4km/1.5 miles
Period: half-hour
Sort of Path: Loop
Elevation Achieve: 3 meters
Greatest For: Rookies, fast stroll, households
11. Rocky Creek Park Path (Greatest for Chook Watching)
I’m particularly keen on this path, primarily for the quantity of various birds I noticed once I went. The river flows via the center of the park, and also you cross over by way of a wood bridge, which additionally presents implausible views.
Though the pathway is paved, it could actually turn out to be a bit of slippery after it’s been raining and the leaves have fallen. It’s the most effective hikes close to Tampa for wildlife and birdwatching, however it’s additionally an easy one for freshmen. 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 climbing trails in Tampa in the event 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. You probably have an hour to spare, spend it right here.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Rocky Creek Park.
Size: 0.8km/0.5 miles
Period: 10 minutes
Sort of Path: Out & again
Elevation Achieve: 3 meters
Greatest For: Fast stroll, freshmen, nature, households
12. Temple Terrace Scout Park Loop (Greatest for Surroundings)
Indisputably, 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 gained’t take too lengthy to finish this hike, round 20 minutes in the event you don’t cease alongside the way in which, however it’s value taking a leisurely tempo to totally admire the surroundings.
You’ll be able to 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 definitely have the ability 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 celebs as there’s a campsite accessible. It’s topic to availability because it’s utilized by native scout teams, so remember to enquire earlier than pitching up!
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Temple Terrace Scout Park.
Size: 1.6km/1 mile
Period: 17 minutes
Sort of Path: Loop
Elevation Achieve: 1 meter
Greatest For: Fast stroll, freshmen, households, tenting
13. Picnic Island Loop (Greatest for Seashore Strolling)
Many of the Tampa 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 undoubtedly want enough strolling footwear or sneakers.
You’ll be able to take this path at any time of the yr, however summer season will present you the perfect of the world. You’ll be able to take a picnic right here, therefore the identify, 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 bit of busy throughout the weekends and public holidays, however it’s by no means uncomfortably crowded. There’s area to cross individuals 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.
Size: 3.4km/2 miles
Period: 40 minutes
Sort of Path: Loop
Elevation Achieve: 7 meters
Greatest For: Intermediate, nature
14. City ‘N Nation Greenway (Greatest 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 splendid for locating a bit of peace and quiet or getting away from all of it. It’s the most effective brief Tampa day hikes in the event you’re a complete newbie as a result of the observe is paved and indicators clearly present you the way in which.
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’ll want to maintain them on a leash. There are numerous various kinds of bushes which might be actually fascinating to discover and are residence to quite a lot of hen species.
You’ll be able to park your automobile simply exterior 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.
Size: 6.8km/4.2 miles
Period: 1 hour quarter-hour
Sort of Path: Out & again
Elevation Achieve: 16 meters
Greatest For: Rookies, households, nature
15. Harbour Island Coastal Stroll (Greatest for Metropolis Strolling)
Should 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 the most effective winter hikes in Tampa as a result of there’s no probability 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 awesome alternative to absorb the vibe of the town with out being proper in the course of the hustle and bustle.
You’ll be able to relaxation alongside the way in which, due to strategically positioned benches, and there are a couple of cafes at sure spots too.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Harbour Island.
Size: 3.2km/2 miles
Period: 35 minutes
Sort of Path: Out & again
Elevation Achieve: 5 meters
Greatest For: Rookies and concrete strolling
What to Pack for Hikes in Tampa
Now you recognize of the perfect climbing trails 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 simply’ll want particular tools, however it pays to have the fundamentals with you:
Suggestions for Climbing trails 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. Observe the following tips, and also you’ll stay secure whereas having fun with the perfect the world has to supply:
Be Animal Conscious
You’re not going to be heading into excessive wilderness, however it pays to grasp the kind of wildlife you may encounter. Steer clear of water and don’t try and swim except 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 remarkable. 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 quite a lot of noise, as you proceed backing away.
Test The Climate Earlier than Heading Out
Most climbing trails in Tampa provide an excellent 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 likely to be finest to reschedule.
Let Somebody Know The place You’re Going
That is primary frequent sense. Should you’re heading out on a hike, let somebody know the place you’re going, be it a buddy, member of the family, and even the resort receptionist. Maintain your cellphone with you always, and ensure it’s absolutely charged earlier than you go.
The Trails Can Be Slippery
One of the best treks in Tampa typically take you thru woodland and bushes. That is advantageous in the summertime, but when it’s raining, particularly in winter, these tracks can turn out to be a bit of slippery on account of fallen leaves.
By no means be tempted to stroll in Tampa in flip-flops or summer season footwear. Climbing, strolling footwear, or sneakers provides you with the grip you’ll want to keep in your ft.
Test Whether or not Picnics Are Allowed
Most climbing trails in Tampa function picnic tables and spots the place you possibly can eat, however not all. There can 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 way in which.
It goes with out saying however, in the event you do have a picnic, be sure to take all your trash with you. Depart the path as you discovered it.
Observe Correct Path Etiquette
It’s simply good manners to step to the facet to let different individuals cross in the event that they’re strolling quicker than you. If somebody is strolling towards you, be sure to transfer apart to allow them to simply cross. All the time be conscious of the wildlife, and the wildlife on the path sides.
climbing trails in Tampa: FAQs
Listed here are some solutions to incessantly requested questions on climbing in Tampa, FL:
What’s the hottest hike in Tampa?
One of the best hikes in Tampa are dotted across the bay, however the most well-liked is the Riverwalk between Channelside and Downtown.
What’s the best hike round Tampa?
Lettuce Lake Park Boardwalk is a simple hike that can swimsuit most individuals. Wheelchair customers and households with strollers will even discover this very accessible.
Are there any waterfall trails in Tampa?
There are some waterfall hikes in Tampa, however they’re a bit of additional out and are extra appropriate for superior hikers. The closest is Falling Creek Falls which is 2.5 hours away from Tampa.
What ought to I put on when climbing trails in Tampa?
Most climbing trails in Tampa are paved, however you must put on snug and supportive footwear. You also needs to carry a light-weight rain jacket simply in case, and in the event you’re climbing in the summertime, be sure to have a hat to guard towards the solar. Snug, free clothes can be advisable.
Is climbing trails in Tampa harmful?
Under no circumstances. So long as you observe directions and follow the trail, climbing in Tampa is totally secure.
What’s the most tough climbing trails in Tampa path in Florida?
One of the best hikes round Tampa vary from simple to reasonable, so there aren’t any significantly tough trails across the space.
Which locations present the perfect climbing trails in Tampa for teenagers and households?
The MacDill Path is the perfect for households because it has a playground and plenty of services for households and kids.
In Closing
There are numerous 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 occurring a couple of walks with a buddy, 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 have the ability to take loads of pictures, burn off some energy, and if you return, you possibly can get pleasure from an enormous meal – you’ll have definitely earned it!
