Where Should You Go Hiking Near Marco Island?

If there’s a nature lover in your family or friend group, be sure to bring them on your next vacation to Marco Island. There’s so much to see and do here, and one of the best ways to make the most of the experience is by hiking. Marco Island is home to some of the most picturesque hiking trails in Florida, and even if you are new to the hobby, you’ll have a great time exploring the nature around you.

If you’re considering staying in one of our Marco Island vacation rentals, be sure to check out one of these destinations for hiking near Marco Island.

Big Cypress

Big Cypress is a hiking experience for the pros, as it’s often been called the toughest backpacking trip in the whole Sunshine State. The hike takes you 30.3 miles through the most remote parts of the Florida Trail, allowing you to experience rainforest-like cypress domes, incredible limestone bedrock, and more. You’ll hike through sawgrass prairies, linear cypress strands, and other challenging ecosystems.

While you’re hiking, you’re likely to spot alligators in late spring, and you might even spot a Florida panther or Florida black bear in the distance! This trip is certainly not for the faint of heart, but if you’re planning to make the journey, consider tackling it from mid-December through early March, when the weather is generally calmer.

Briggs Nature Center Boardwalk

If you’re looking for a shorter and more family-friendly place to hike near our Marco Island beachfront rentals, consider Briggs Nature Center Boardwalk. This hike is just 0.6 miles long and is perfect for all skill levels, so even the youngest in your group or the newest of hikers can enjoy the journey! Many visitors to Marco Island come to this trail not only for hiking but also for walking, nature trips, and bird watching. You can even bring your dog as long as you keep them on a leash!

At the Briggs Nature Center Boardwalk, you’ll experience a short loop trail that’s perfect for getting your family out in the sunshine and experiencing the scenic view of the Naples area. Be sure to bring your camera so you can get the perfect view of the nature around you and the incredible birds that call this area home. The trail is short enough to fit in a mid-afternoon walk, or you could take the loop more than once for a longer workout.

Sabal Palm Trail

If you still want a nature hike that is good for beginners but is a little bit longer than the Briggs Nature Center Boardwalk, Sabal Palm Trail is the perfect solution. This trail is a loop near Naples that takes visitors 3.8 miles through nature. Just like with its counterpart, you’re more than welcome to bring your pet as long as they are leashed.

On this hike, you’ll have access to stunning nature throughout the Picayune Strand State Forest. You’ll see gorgeous wildflowers around every corner and will truly feel like you’re one with nature. Visitors report that this trail floods quite easily, so if it rains during your vacation, it’s probably best to wait a day or two to tackle this trail.

Marco Island Beach Trail

For a slightly longer expedition, the Marco Island Beach Trail is ideal. You won’t be headed through the wilderness like you are on some other hikes, but instead, you’ll have an absolutely gorgeous view of the beach at every stop. This out and back trail is 6.2 miles long and is perfect for just about every skill level.

When you tackle the Marco Island Beach Trail, you’ll discover breathtaking wildlife around every corner as well as an unmatched view of the waves. The trail also offers a large number of activity options to keep your entire group occupied and to give you places to rest along the way. Be aware that no dogs are allowed on this trail. When you’re browsing our Marco Island pet-friendly rentals or any of our other accommodations, rest assured that they all are just a short trip away from these incredible hiking spots. It’s never been easier to get out the door and into nature.