Celebrate Florida Hiking Trails Month
February is Florida Hiking Trails Month, and it’s a great time to enjoy the outdoors and the simple moments that come with it. To celebrate, challenge yourself to complete 10 or more of the activities below—on your own, with a loved one, or with neighbors right here in Pine Ridge.
Hiking & Exploring
- Take a hike in a city park or Florida state park
- Walk a paved trail and a natural surface trail
- Hike with family, friends, or someone who’s never hiked before
- Go on a sunrise hike
- Try a trail you’ve never visited before
- Take a sensory hike—notice 5 sounds and 5 textures
- Hike at least once a week this month
- Bring your pet along
- Organize a small group hike with neighbors or a club
Food & Simple Fun
- Make your own trail mix
- Pack a healthy picnic and enjoy lunch outdoors (Leave No Trace!)
Wildlife & Nature Watching
- Look for signs of wildlife like tracks or nests
- Identify three types of trees
- Watch or photograph birds along the trail
You don’t need to do it all—just get outside, slow down, and enjoy the beauty around you. Sometimes love looks like fresh air, comfortable shoes, and time well spent.
Local Hiking & Trail Options
1. Crystal River Preserve State Park – A huge natural area with miles of trails, including paths that wind through marsh, coastal woods, and estuary landscapes. Popular routes include the 7 Mile Loop Trailhead — a great way to enjoy a longer hike and wildlife viewing in one of the region’s most scenic outdoor spaces.
2. Withlacoochee State Trail – South Citrus Springs Trailhead & Withlacoochee State Trail – Gulf Junction Trailhead – One of Florida’s longest multi-use rail trails, stretching through Citrus and nearby counties. Its paved path is perfect for hiking, walking, biking, or even a long nature stroll.
3. Central Ridge District Park – A favorite local “easy walk” destination with walking paths and plenty of open space — ideal for short trail outings or starting your hiking challenge close to home.
4. Annutteliga Hammock – A peaceful nature area with forested trails and native habitats, perfect for gentle hikes or bird watching.
5. Potts Preserve & Citrus Wildlife Management Area – For those looking to combine hiking with wildlife spotting or fishing, these preserves offer trails and natural space to explore.
6. Blue Run of Dunnellon Park – A scenic park that includes trails along waterways, perfect for a nature walk with a peaceful waterside backdrop.
