The best walks and hikes in Broward County

Yes, there are over 100 hiking routes to explore in Broward County. The trails cater to various preferences, featuring everything from paved coastal paths to boardwalks that wind through unique South Florida ecosystems like mangrove forests and hardwood hammocks.

The trails in Broward County are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the well-maintained boardwalks that offer an immersive experience through wetlands and the shade provided by the dense canopy in the region's many nature centers.

Absolutely. The terrain in Broward County is predominantly flat, making it ideal for families and beginners. A great option is the Topeekeegee Yugnee Park loop, which is a paved path perfect for a relaxed walk with children.

While many nature preserves like Fern Forest and Secret Woods do not permit dogs to protect the wildlife, some parks are more accommodating. Always check the specific park's regulations before you go. For a guaranteed dog-friendly outing, consider a walk along a paved urban trail like the Riverwalk North.

No, there are no natural waterfalls in Broward County. The region's geography is very flat, characterized by wetlands, coastal plains, and low-lying forests. The beauty of the hikes here comes from the unique flora and fauna of these South Florida ecosystems, not from dramatic elevation changes.

The Anne Kolb Nature Center is well-known for its multi-story observation tower, which provides panoramic views over the 1,500-acre coastal mangrove wetland. It's a fantastic spot for bird-watching and getting a sense of the vastness of the preserve.

For photography, visit the highly-regarded Fern Forest Nature Center. Its boardwalks take you through diverse habitats, offering great opportunities to capture images of ferns, tall trees, and wildlife. Another excellent choice is Secret Woods Nature Center, where trails wind through a beautiful freshwater cypress-maple wetland.

While most trails within the parks are relatively short, you can create longer hikes by combining paths or choosing routes along the coast. For a longer coastal walk, consider the hike to Dania Beach Fishing Pier via the Hollywood Broadwalk, which covers nearly 8 miles (12.7 km).

Tree Tops Park in Davie is an excellent choice for a wooded hike, with trails that run through a canopy of ancient live oaks. For a different kind of forest, Long Key Natural Area & Nature Center features trails through a beautiful live oak hammock, offering a shaded escape.

Several nature centers and parks are local favorites for hiking. Among the most popular are:

• Hugh Taylor Birch State Park: A beloved urban oasis in Fort Lauderdale offering trails that showcase coastal wilderness between the ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway.
• Fern Forest Nature Center: A highly-rated preserve known for its extensive boardwalks and collection of over 30 types of ferns.
• Secret Woods Nature Center: A popular urban wilderness area with tranquil trails through wetlands and a butterfly garden.

Yes, many parks in Broward County offer paved trails. The Pompano Beach Airpark loop is a fully paved route that is great for strollers, jogging, or a leisurely walk. Many sections of the Hollywood Broadwalk are also paved and accessible.

The highest natural elevation in Broward County is at Pine Island Ridge Natural Area. While only 29 feet above sea level, this ancient sand dune offers a unique hiking experience through a hardwood hammock, providing a subtle but noticeable change in elevation compared to the rest of the flat county.