The best walks and hikes in Biscayne National Park
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Hiking trails in Biscayne National Park offer unique terrestrial exploration within a predominantly aquatic environment. The park features a blend of land and sea, characterized by mangrove shorelines, shallow bay waters, and coral limestone keys. While largely submerged, the park provides distinct hiking opportunities on its islands and coastal areas, allowing visitors to experience its diverse landscapes and natural features.
Best hiking trails in Biscayne National Park
- The most popular hiking route is The Jetty Trail at Convoy Point — Biscayne National Park, an easy 0.8-mile (1.3 km) trail that takes about 20 minutes to complete. This path offers scenic views of Biscayne Bay near the Dante Fascell Visitor Center.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Boca Chita Key Loop Trail — Biscayne National Park, an easy 1.1-mile (1.8 km) path. This loop around Boca Chita Key provides waterfront views and glimpses of mangrove shorelines.
- Local hikers also love the Spite Highway Trail & Elliot Key Trail — Biscayne National Park, a 16.4-mile (26.4 km) trail leading through Elliott Key, often completed in about 6 hours 35 minutes.
- Hiking in Biscayne National Park is defined by island loops, mangrove shorelines, and bay views. The network offers options for easy walks and more challenging, longer routes.
- The routes in Biscayne National Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from more than 15 reviews. More than 400 hikers have used komoot to explore Biscayne National Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
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The Black Creek Canal Trail offers a surprisingly diverse, easy stroll alongside its namesake waterway in Miami-Dade County. This particular segment is a short 0.8-mile (1.3 km) hike with no elevation gain, taking about 20 minutes to complete. You'll find yourself on mostly paved surfaces, passing through residential areas and parks, with the chance to spot local wildlife like manatees and iguanas, especially closer to Biscayne Bay.
Parking is readily available at various points along the broader trail, including Black Point Park & Marina or Larry & Penny Thompson Park, which are good starting points for this easy route. Given Florida's climate, an early morning or late afternoon visit is often best to avoid the midday heat. This trail is perfect for beginners, families, or anyone seeking a quick, accessible outdoor break.
Beyond its immediate charm, the Black Creek Canal Trail is a key connector in the region, linking up with other popular routes like the Old Cutler Trail and the South Dade Trail. This connectivity makes it a great starting point for longer cycling adventures or a pleasant detour for a short, easy hike. It's a flat, family-friendly option for experiencing a slice of Miami's natural and urban landscape.
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The Biscayne Greenway Trail offers a delightful journey through South Florida's coastal landscapes, blending paved, dirt, and gravel paths. You'll wander alongside mangrove-lined shores with open views of Biscayne Bay, pass through fields, nurseries, and forested areas, and spot local wildflowers. Keep an eye on the parallel canals for egrets, herons, and perhaps even alligators or manatees, especially near Black Point Park and Marina, making it a rewarding experience for nature lovers.
This easy 3.1-mile (4.9 km) hike, with only 3 feet (1 meter) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 13 minutes to complete. It's best enjoyed between September and April for cooler weather, though you should be prepared for potentially muddy sections after rain with sturdy footwear. The trail offers good accessibility, with designated parking and wheelchair-accessible bathrooms at some trailheads.
The Biscayne Greenway Trail is a key part of an ambitious project to create a 42-mile multi-use trail connecting Biscayne National Park with Everglades National Park. This future greenway will be the first to link two U.S. national parks, offering a unique, vehicle-free route through diverse ecosystems. It's a fantastic way to experience the region's natural beauty and contribute to a significant conservation effort.
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The Convoy Point Jetty Trail offers a delightful, easy stroll into the heart of Biscayne National Park's coastal ecosystem. This short 0.4-mile (0.7 km) hiking route, with its flat 0 feet (0 metres) of elevation gain, takes only about 10 minutes to complete, making it an ideal choice for a quick nature fix. You'll wander along a mix of boardwalk and smooth gravel, passing through dense mangrove forests before reaching the jetty, which provides expansive views over Biscayne Bay and its clear, shallow waters.
Planning your visit to this family friendly hike is simple, as the trailhead is conveniently located at Convoy Point, near the Dante Fascell Visitor Center. Parking is readily available, and the trail's accessible design, featuring boardwalks and gentle surfaces, makes it a beginner hiking route suitable for nearly everyone. It's a great option for any time of day, offering a peaceful escape into nature.
This trail is a standout for wildlife spotting, with opportunities to see various bird species, iguanas, and marine life like fish and sea turtles in the bay. It's particularly notable as one of the few mainland trails in Biscayne National Park, a park where over 95% of the area is water. Interpretive exhibits along the way enhance your understanding of the natural features, making it both scenic and educational.
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The Convoy Point Jetty Trail offers a unique glimpse into Biscayne National Park's coastal ecosystem, winding along a mangrove-lined shore before extending onto a jetty over the clear waters of Biscayne Bay. You'll traverse a mix of boardwalk and smooth gravel, enjoying open vistas where marine life like fish and sea turtles are often visible. This easy 0.8-mile (1.3 km) hike, with just 3 feet (1 metres) of elevation gain, is a quick 19-minute out-and-back, perfect for a relaxing nature walk.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail starts right by the Dante Fascell Visitor Center, offering convenient Convoy Point Jetty Trail parking. It's an ideal option for a short, accessible outing, especially if you're looking for a quick activity or waiting for other park programs. While mostly flat, some sandy sections might pose a challenge for wheelchair users, so keep that in mind.
What makes this trail truly special is its role as one of the few land-based hiking opportunities in a park that is 95% water. It provides an excellent introduction to the park's unique environment, with educational exhibits along the way and a chance to see a Colonial Bird Protection Area. For those without a boat, it's the best way to experience the natural beauty and wildlife of Biscayne National Park.
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The Black Creek Trail in Miami-Dade County offers a wonderfully flat and easy escape into nature, perfect for a relaxed stroll. You'll likely walk through coastal Florida vegetation, with the route bringing you close to the Black Point Park and Marina, and potentially offering views towards the Black Point Jetty. It's a tranquil experience, ideal for unwinding without any strenuous effort.
Planning your visit is straightforward, with parking expected at or near Black Point Park and Marina. This 4.2-mile (6.7 km) hiking route, with its minimal 4 feet (1 metres) of elevation gain, is an easy 1 hour and 40 minute walk, making it suitable for most times of day. Remember to carry water, especially in Florida's warm climate.
This particular Black Creek Trail stands out as a highly accessible and family-friendly option within Miami-Dade County. Its easy difficulty level makes it a great choice for beginners or those seeking a gentle outdoor activity, providing a peaceful natural setting without requiring a long commitment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Biscayne National Park?
Biscayne National Park offers a unique blend of land and sea, with over 35 hiking routes available. While the park is predominantly aquatic, you'll find distinct terrestrial paths, including 30 easy trails, 3 moderate routes, and 2 more challenging options, primarily located on its islands and coastal areas.
Are there family-friendly hiking options in Biscayne National Park?
Yes, Biscayne National Park has several easy, family-friendly trails. The Jetty Trail at Convoy Point is an excellent choice, being a short 0.8-mile walk with scenic views of Biscayne Bay. The Boca Chita Key Loop Trail is another easy option, offering waterfront views and glimpses of mangrove shorelines on Boca Chita Key.
What natural features or landmarks can I expect to see while hiking in Biscayne National Park?
While hiking in Biscayne National Park, you can experience diverse ecosystems. Expect to see dense mangrove forests, which are crucial habitats for marine life. On islands like Boca Chita Key, you can visit the historic Boca Chita Lighthouse, offering panoramic views. Elliott Key, the largest island, provides opportunities to explore coral limestone formations. You might also spot various wildlife, including birds, fish, and potentially manatees or dolphins in the surrounding bay waters.
When is the best time of year to go hiking in Biscayne National Park?
The best time to go hiking in Biscayne National Park is typically during the cooler, drier months, from late fall through spring (roughly November to April). During this period, temperatures are more comfortable, and humidity is lower, making outdoor activities more enjoyable. Summer months can be very hot and humid, with a higher chance of rain and mosquitoes.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Biscayne National Park?
Hikers in Biscayne National Park frequently praise the unique blend of land and sea experiences. The komoot community rates the routes highly, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 15 reviews. Many appreciate the tranquil island loops, the scenic mangrove shorelines, and the expansive bay views that offer a different perspective compared to traditional hiking destinations.
Are there any longer or more challenging hikes in the park?
Yes, for those seeking a longer and more challenging experience, the Spite Highway Trail & Elliot Key Trail is a notable option. This difficult 16.4-mile (26.4 km) route traverses Elliott Key, the largest island in the park, and can take around 6 hours and 35 minutes to complete. It offers an immersive experience into the island's natural environment.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Biscayne National Park?
National Park Service regulations generally restrict pets on trails and in wilderness areas to protect wildlife and natural resources. While pets are usually allowed in developed areas, check the official park website for the most current and specific regulations regarding pets on trails and in different areas of Biscayne National Park before your visit. You can find more information at nps.gov/BISC.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Biscayne National Park?
Yes, the park offers circular routes, particularly on its islands. The Boca Chita Key Loop Trail is a prime example, providing a scenic loop around the island with waterfront views. These loops are ideal for experiencing the island's unique environment without retracing your steps.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter on the trails?
Biscayne National Park is rich in biodiversity. While hiking, especially near mangrove areas or on the keys, you might spot a variety of birds, including migratory species as the park is on the Atlantic Flyway. Keep an eye out for marine life in the surrounding waters, such as manatees, bottlenose dolphins, and various fish species. American crocodiles and different types of sea turtles are also residents of the park's ecosystems.
Is there parking available for hikers at Biscayne National Park?
For land-based access to trails like the Jetty Trail, parking is available at the Dante Fascell Visitor Center. However, many of the park's hiking opportunities are on islands like Boca Chita Key and Elliott Key, which are only accessible by boat. If you plan to visit these islands, you'll need to arrange boat transportation, which may include private boats or concessioner services.
Are there any trails that offer views of the Miami skyline?
Yes, from Boca Chita Key, particularly near the historic Boca Chita Lighthouse, you can enjoy some of the best views of the surrounding islands and, on a clear day, the distant Miami skyline. The Boca Chita Key Loop Trail provides excellent opportunities to take in these vistas.
What are the main ecosystems I will experience in Biscayne National Park?
Biscayne National Park is characterized by four distinct ecosystems that you can experience even on its limited land trails. These include the dense mangrove forests along the shoreline, the shallow, clear waters of Biscayne Bay, the coral limestone keys (like Elliott Key and Boca Chita Key), and the offshore Florida Reef, though the reef is primarily explored through water-based activities.
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