Known as one of the top tourist destinations in the world, Miami is home to dozens of beautiful beaches and a thriving nightlife. Miami’s year-round sunshine makes the city the perfect vacation spot for anyone looking to soak up some sun. But while the city is obviously known for its world-class beaches, if you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous than sunbathing and enjoying a piña colada, then you’ve come to the right place.
Make the most of your next trip to Miami by setting out on one of these trails to enjoy the area’s unique habitats. You won’t be disappointed.
Matheson Hammock Trail
[Image: Jimmy Baikovicius/Flickr]
A lesser-known trail in Miami, the Matheson Hammock Trail is a hidden gem that offers visitors a glimpse into the area’s natural history. The rugged hike, which is reminiscent of the what the Miami suburb Coral Gables once looked like, is overgrown with tropical trees and crawling with wildlife. This trail showcases one of the remaining pieces of Miami’s grand hammock — a rare habitat that any outdoor enthusiast should witness. Keep in mind that this hike does contain rough terrain, so you’ll want to use your best judgment while exploring.
Bear Cut Preserve
Are you in the mood for something a little less strenuous? Located on the shores of Biscanye Bay, the Bear Cut Preserve provides visitors with several trails that intertwine throughout the park. Behind the nature center is the 1.3-mile Osprey Beach Trail that takes you on a leisurely walk along the dunes. At the end of the trail, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking scenic view of Key Biscanye. Also worth noting is the tropical hardwood hammock or the 6,000-year-old mangrove forest reef, both of which are well worth the visit.
Simpson Park
[Image: Phillip Pessar/Flickr]
Find solitude in the heart of downtown Miami at Simpson Park. Just a few blocks away from towering skyscrapers, Simpson Park was created purely to preserve part of the native hammock. While in the park, you’ll find wildly growing trees overtaking the walking paths — making you feel as if you’re in the jungle. And for those feeling extra daring, you can stray away from the designated path (which is allowed) to more thoroughly discover the park.
Bayshore Loop Trail
Autosave-File vom d-lab2/3 der AgfaPhoto GmbH
[Image: floridahikes.com]
Take a walk through the mangrove-lined edge of Florida Bay and explore the coastal prairie habitat on the Bayshore Loop Trail. Although the trail is no longer currently maintained, visitors are still welcome to make their way along the Bayshore Loop. Along the trail, be sure to keep an eye out for remnants of buttonwoods from the last storm, as well as native birds that might be wading around. Further down the trail you’ll witness what is left of Flamingo’s original fishing village, a small cistern that reflects the area’s history. The 1.3-mile hike is a nice taste of what the area’s longer trails have to offer.
Whether you prefer a quiet stroll on the overgrown paths of Simpson Beach or you’d rather try something a bit more rugged, these Miami trails are sure to satisfy your desire to get out and enjoy the outdoors.
After an exciting day of exploring Miami’s trails, you want a comfortable place to sleep. Holiday Inn is both comfortable and conveniently located downtown, keeping you in close proximity to some of Miami’s trails and other fun attractions.
