Connect with Nature off the Beaten Path! Discover and Explore the Real Side of Florida Many Don't See!
Our Favorite Hiking Trails around Citrus County
There’s no shortage of hiking trails on the Nature Coast, and these locations highlight the Real Florida that exists beyond the hotspots and attractions. Whether you’re searching for wildlife, clearing your head, or just getting some fresh air and movement, every trail offers something a little different. Visit during the week and you’ll often have these places almost entirely to yourself!
Buford Spring Nature Preserve
Know Before You Go: This short boardwalk trail takes you through a serene cypress swamp, giving you a firsthand look at a thriving wetland habitat. It's short and easy, just under a mile roundtrip, ending at the beautiful blue waters of Buford Spring.
What to Look for: Observe a variety of native plant species like the purple pickerelweed, white swamp lily, and blue flag iris. Spot many species of herons and listen to the loud call of the pileated woodpeckers.
This cypress wetland supports a thriving ecosystem that includes otters, turtles, and native butterflies.
Located at:
11420 Eakin Street Brooksville, Florida 34614
ChurchHouse Hammock Trail
What to Look for: This part of the Crystal River Preserve features a hardwood forest of longleaf pine, live oaks, and cabbage palms. Native plants like beautyberry and swamp mallow hibiscus. Gopher turtles have nesting sites throughout the area, which is also a great nesting site for fox squirrels and songbirds.
Know Before You Go: There are nearly 4 miles of boardwalk style trails to explore, winding through a coastal wetland and palm hammock ecosystems.
Seven Mile
Loop Trail
What to Look for: Explore a variety of native habitats in one place. Discover coastal palm hammocks, tidal creeks, salt ponds, and longleaf pine forests. This massive habitat supports a diverse variety of wildlife including barred owls, pileated woodpeckers, white tail deer, river otters, and southeastern kestrals.
Know Before You Go: This is our favorite trail within the Crystal River State Preserve. You don't have to hike all 7 miles to enjoy the best parts.
Dixie Shores
Lake Trail
What to Look for: This area is apart of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail. Early mornings are very active times to see Osprey, Herons, and sometimes Deer. Native plants like black eye susans attract many species of butterflies. If you enjoy fishing, this is a great spot to throw a line in.
Know Before You Go: There are about 3 miles of short trails that highlight backwater wetlands with mangroves and salt marsh shorelines.