The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Key West
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Dog friendly hiking trails around Key West offer unique opportunities to explore tropical landscapes and coastal scenery. The region is characterized by its flat terrain, featuring mangrove forests, native plant habitats, and extensive coastal paths. Hikers can experience a blend of natural beauty and urban exploration, with trails often leading along the waterfront or through lush gardens. The island's low elevation means routes typically have minimal elevation gain, making them accessible for various fitness levels.
Best dog friendly hiking trails around Key West
- The most popular dog friendly hiking route is Smathers Beach – Southernmost Point Buoy loop from Key West, an 8.8 miles (14.1 km) moderate trail that takes 3 hours 33 minutes to complete. This route offers extensive coastal views and passes by significant Key West landmarks.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Salute On The Beach – Smathers Beach loop from Key West, an easy 4.7 miles (7.6 km) path. This trail provides a pleasant walk along beachfront areas and through urban coastal settings.
- Local hikers also love the Historic House in Key West – Southernmost Point Buoy loop from Key West, a 2.2 miles (3.5 km) trail leading through historic areas and past coastal landmarks, often completed in about 52 minutes.
- Hiking around Key West is defined by coastal paths, mangrove forests, and tropical gardens. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to moderate urban loops.
- The routes in Key West are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from more than 30 reviews. More than 1200 hikers have used komoot to explore Key West's varied terrain.
Last updated: August 18, 2026
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Smathers Beach is the largest public beach in Key West, Florida, famous for its long stretch of white sand, exceptionally calm waters, and the beautiful setting of tropical palm trees.
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TW lived in Key West for about 30 years.
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Smathers Beach, named after George Smathers (1913-2007), a former U.S. Senator from Florida and a friend of President John F. Kennedy, is the largest public beach in Key West, stretching about half a mile along the Atlantic Ocean. It begins at mile marker zero and is beautifully lined with coconut trees. On September 2, 2013, long-distance swimmer Diana Nyad made history by arriving at Smathers Beach after swimming 110 miles from Havana, Cuba, becoming the first person to complete the journey without a shark cage.
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Small jetty directly on the city beach.
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It is quite busy here at lunchtime. It is better to get up early, then you will be able to get an uninterrupted picture. The Southernmost Point is considered the southernmost point in the continental United States and is located on the last of the Florida Keys, Key West. It is located on the edge of the city of Key West in the Upper Duval district on the corner of Whitehead Street and South Street. It is only a few minutes' walk to the city center. The Southernmost Point is actually not the southernmost point in Key West. This is located on the US Navy base next door. Since Key West is an island, the southernmost point in the continental USA is near Flamingo in the Everglades. Source Wikipedia
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You can also possibly go swimming here.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many dog-friendly hiking trails are available in Key West?
There are 5 dog-friendly hiking trails around Key West featured in this guide. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from coastal walks to urban explorations, all suitable for you and your canine companion.
What is the general difficulty level of dog-friendly hikes in Key West?
Most dog-friendly hikes in Key West are considered easy, with 4 out of 5 routes falling into this category. There is also one moderate route for those looking for a slightly longer adventure. The terrain is generally flat, characteristic of the island's subtropical environment.
Are there any longer dog-friendly routes for more experienced hikers?
Yes, for a more extended walk, consider the Smathers Beach – Southernmost Point Buoy loop from Key West. This moderate route spans over 14 kilometers, offering a comprehensive tour of Key West's coastal and urban landscapes.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see on dog-friendly trails in Key West?
Key West's trails often feature subtropical landscapes, including mangrove forests and coastal views. While specific trails in this guide might not go through all of them, the region is known for places like the Key West Nature Preserve with its undeveloped beachfront and mangrove ecosystems, and the Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden showcasing native plants and trees.
Are there any historical landmarks or points of interest along the dog-friendly routes?
Absolutely! Many routes in Key West pass by significant landmarks. For instance, the Historic House in Key West – Southernmost Point Buoy loop from Key West will take you past the iconic Southernmost Point Buoy. Other nearby attractions include the Key West Lighthouse and The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, which you can explore after your hike.
What do other hikers say about the dog-friendly trails in Key West?
The dog-friendly trails in Key West are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.75 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the pleasant coastal scenery and the accessibility of the routes for both humans and their dogs.
Are there any dog-friendly loop trails in Key West?
Yes, all the dog-friendly routes in this guide are loop trails, making them convenient for starting and ending at the same point. Examples include the Salute On The Beach – Smathers Beach loop from Key West and the Smathers Beach loop from Stock Island.
What is the best time of year to hike with my dog in Key West?
Key West generally offers pleasant weather year-round due to its subtropical climate. However, the cooler, drier months from November to April are often preferred for outdoor activities to avoid the peak heat and humidity of summer.
Are there any trails that offer good coastal views for dogs and their owners?
Many of the trails in Key West provide excellent coastal views. The Salute On The Beach – Smathers Beach loop from Key West, for example, offers a lovely walk along Smathers Beach, providing ample opportunities to enjoy the ocean scenery with your dog.
What kind of terrain should I expect on dog-friendly trails in Key West?
The terrain on Key West's dog-friendly trails is typically flat and easy to navigate, often consisting of paved paths, boardwalks, or compacted earth. This makes them accessible for a wide range of fitness levels and comfortable for dogs.
Can I find trails that are suitable for a quick dog walk?
Yes, there are several shorter options perfect for a quick outing. The Historic House in Key West – Southernmost Point Buoy loop from Key West is an easy route just over 3 kilometers, ideal for a shorter, scenic walk with your dog.
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