5 Incredible Hikes You Need to Take at Biscayne National Park

Parks and Landmarks is excited to welcome you on your hiking adventures in Biscayne National Park. While it might have a lot of water (95% of the park, to be exact), we have plenty of ways for you to get on those feet and see the beautiful scenery that Biscayne National Park has to offer.

Since the park was established in 1980, and even well before then, Biscayne’s 172,000 acres have wowed visitors with its sights. We have picked 5 hiking trails that you shouldn’t miss out on when visiting the park.

It doesn’t matter if you can do only 1 or all 5, each hike provides a unique look at the park and its incredibly diverse ecosystem.

5. Elliot Key Loop Trail

Get up close to Elliot Key, one of the gorgeous and most prominent islands in the park. Once a thriving community for pioneers, Elliot Key is now excellent for camping, hiking, and picnicking. 

This trail takes you from the shore and into a stunning forest setting where wildlife is often seen. Keep a sharp eye out for informational signs to learn more about the history of the area. 

Total Distance: 1.1 miles 

Elevation Gain: 6.5 feet 

Difficulty: Easy - Walking 

Route Type: Loop 

Other Info: 

• Bug spray is recommended as mosquitoes are present year-round
• Pets on a leash are permitted 

4. Spite Highway Trail

The longest trail in the park, Spite Highway, is named after trees were cut down to develop a 6-lane highway to “spite” conservationists in the 1960s who were trying to protect the area.

Spite Highway takes you right down the middle of the island and through lush, green forests. Be sure to be on the lookout  for the prevalent wildlife, as there are many native birds and other creatures who call the forest home. 

Total Distance: 5.5 miles (11 miles roundtrip) 

Elevation Gain: 22.9 feet

Difficulty: Moderate - Hiking, Walking 

Route Type: Out and Back 

Other Info: 

• Water and snacks are recommended, as the trail is long 

3. Boca Chita Trail

If you love lighthouses, you need to get on the Boca Chita Trail. This iconic landmark was built by Mark Honeywell in the 1930s and still guides boats to this day. 

Boca Chita Trail gives you a stunning look at the island and a bridge that takes you right over the water. After you finish the trail, climb the lighthouse for an amazing aerial view of what you just walked. 

Total Distance: 0.80 miles

Elevation Gain: 3.2 feet

Difficulty: Easy - Walking, Hiking

Route Type: Loop

Other Info:

2. Black Creek Canal

Get those fishing rods ready! Black Creek Canal gives you a great close-up look at the park’s shoreline and all of the fantastic views that come with it. 

Walk right along the mangroves and stop anywhere to dip those lines into the water and see if you can catch some fish on your hike. Expect to see a lot of other wildlife, including ducks, iguanas, fish, and some breathtaking wildflowers. 

Total Distance: 1.6 miles (3.2 miles roundtrip)

Elevation Gain: 3.2 feet

Difficulty: Easy - Walking, Hiking, Fishing 

Route Type: Out and Back 

Other Info:

• Fishing is easily accessible off of the dock on this trail 
• Bug spray is recommended as mosquitoes are present year-round

1. Jetty Trail

Our number-one pick comes with views of both nature and metropolitan grandeur. Get beautiful views of the shoreline and island while also looking across the bay to see downtown Miami lights on the other side. 

The most accessible trail in the park, half the trail is made up of boardwalk, while the other is smooth gravel and sand. Get the best of both worlds where you can see stunning views of nature while looking at the splendor of Miami’s skyline. 

Total Distance: 0.80 miles (1.6 miles roundtrip) 

Elevation Gain: 0 feet 

Difficulty: Easy - Walking

Route Type: Out and Back 

Other Info:

We hope you experience one or all of these fantastic trails. Parks and Landmarks is excited for you to experience the wonder and beauty of what we love so much. The parks we showcase strive to preserve the natural environment so other generations of hikers can enjoy them for years to come. Remember the number-one rule of hiking or walking through the park:

Take nothing but pictures; leave nothing but footprints.

Check out what else the park has to offer by clicking the link below, and plan your trip to Biscayne National Park!