Looking for Hiking Trails with Waterfalls in Florida?
Florida is known for its beaches, but the state also has some of the most breathtaking hiking trails in the country.
Many of these trails offer beautiful views of natural waterfalls and rivers, making them perfect for an afternoon of exploration and discovery.
Here are a few of our favorite waterfalls in Florida that you won’t want to miss!
Preparing For Hikes In Florida
Hiking Season
Summertime in Florida is the worst time to go hiking because of the extreme heat and humidity. We highly recommend waiting for the months of October through April, when the weather starts to drop off, especially in the mornings and evenings.
Plants and Pollen of Florida
If you have terrible allergies like I do, the pollen count in Florida can be the very thing that ruin your day. A variety of plants, grasses, and trees grow all year long, so it’s better to be prepared by carrying any necessary allergy medication with you.
Admission
Some trails are in national parks and require small admission fees.
Florida Wildlife
Please be aware that Florida is home to certain native natural predators. In these locations, people have spotted boars, snakes, black bears, Florida panthers, bobcats, and coyotes.
There’s a considerable possibility you’ll see alligators, especially if you’re near water. Unless they are disturbed, they like to be left alone. Florida Alligators have strict laws that protect them from “harassment”, so again, its best to just leave them alone.
Safety Concerns
The main worry you might have, apart from the aforementioned potential animal encounters, is the heat. In Florida, it can and will get really hot and it doesn’t help that it seems hotter than it actually is due to the humidity. It’s not unusual for months like September, October, March, and April to have unseasonably hot days.
The best course of action is to protect yourself from the heat with appropriate clothes, sunscreen, and lots of water. Know your limitations as well. You might be able to do a five mile hike in 75 degree weather, but a small stroll to the store can be unbearable in Floridian 90 degree weather.
Florida Hiking Gear
We strongly advise carrying sunscreen and aloe gel in case you do get sunburned to protect yourself from the elements. Bug spray is also essential to protect you from mosquitoes and other bugs that bite.
Wear appropriate clothes that either protects your skin from the sun or enables it to breathe, whichever is preferable. If it’s warm outside, wearing long pants can seem like a terrible idea, but you’ll be better off shielding your legs from thorns and insects.
Wearing hiking socks will prevent blisters on your feet, keep dirt out, and allow your skin to still breathe.
A Small First Aid Kit kit and plenty of water are also recommended. Additionally, remember to pack everything you’ll need in a backpack.
The Best Hiking Trails With Waterfalls In Florida
1. Falling Waters State Park – Chipley, FL
If you’re looking for hiking trails in Florida with waterfalls, look no further than Falling Waters State Park in Chipley.
Take a leisurely stroll through lush forests and over crystal-clear streams and catch a glimpse of the beautiful waterfall as you explore. With its unique natural features, hiking and camping facilities, this is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Falling Waters State Park is home to Florida’s only true waterfall. Running into the 100-foot-deep sinkhole, Falling Waters Sink descends 73 feet to its base. No one knows where the water stream ends!
In case it wasn’t convincing enough, Falling Waters also has a sizable lake that is great for swimming and is surrounded by a stunning white sand beach.
Come prepared for anything, from spontaneous swims in the creek to idyllic picnics under the cascading falls. And if you feel like extending your stay, set up camp at one of the park’s 27 RV or tent sites – you won’t regret it!
2. Falling Creek Falls – Lake City, FL
For hiking enthusiasts that love gorgeous scenery, Falling Creek Falls in Lake City, FL is the perfect destination.
Located less than an hour away from Gainesville on a beautiful piece of land, this natural water feature is one of the most picturesque waterfalls in all of Florida. Not only is it stunning to look at – the water is deep enough to accommodate visitors looking for a safe swimming area near stunning waterfalls.
Surrounded by lush green vegetation and offering plenty of photo opportunities, no trip to Florida would be complete without a visit to Falling Creek Falls for an awe-inspiring experience!
3. Rainbow Springs – Dunnellon, FL
Located in Dunnellon, Florida, Rainbow Springs waterfalls provide a refreshing escape for anyone looking for an outdoor adventure.
From a distance, the water appears a dazzling turquoise blue, but up close, it is so clear that you can see all the way to the bottom. Swimming in a spring in Florida is required.
Despite being the fourth-largest spring in the state, Rainbow Springs isn’t very noteworthy. In Rainbow Springs, you may swim in spring water beneath not one, but six waterfalls! A chance like this shouldn’t be passed up.
Meandering around the waterfalls gives visitors plenty to explore and enjoy as they dive into the abundance of nature that this treasure provides. Not to worry, swimmers! The waterfalls have a designated swimming area with safe water depths perfect for families and kids to cool off on hot summer days.
Several enjoyable activities are available in Rainbow Springs, including tubing, kayaking, snorkeling, hiking, wildlife expeditions, and more. While you can’t use your tubes at Rainbow Falls, you may use them on the neighboring lazy river, which is a very popular place to go tubing.
The lazy river has two ends, so you may take a long or short journey there! The long tube ride lasts around four hours, while the short ride lasts about an hour and a half. All-day access to the lazy river costs just $20, including the tube. Also, they offer a shuttle service from the river’s mouth to your parking area.
So, grab your trunks and head to Dunnellon’s Rainbow Springs waterfalls—it’s sure to become a summer favorite.
4. Big Shoals State Park – White Springs, FL
Big Shoals State Park in White Springs, FL offers a breathtaking display of waterfalls!
This nature reserve is one of the few areas in Florida where visitors can take in waterfalls and whitewater rapids. With crystal-clear waters and lush flora, this park is undoubtedly a sight that all nature lovers need to check out. Hike through the trails for breathtaking views of remote waterfalls and soak up the unforgettable natural beauty that this unique area has to offer.
An afternoon in Big Shoals State Park is sure to leave you with lasting memories of Florida’s waterfalls!
5. Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park – Gainesville, FL
This popular park is home to a 120-foot deep sinkhole that is filled with lush vegetation, small streams, and various wildlife.
The 0.7 mile nature trail takes you around the base of the sinkhole before leading down to its bottom, where you will find a spectacular waterfall cascading into a crystal-clear pool.
Devil’s Millhopper is made more intriguing by the fact that the state park allows visitors to go inside the sinkhole. It is 500 feet wide and roughly 120 feet deep.
Be prepared for a hike because you’ll need to descend a significant number of wooden steps to reach the bottom. If you get tired, there are several of observation stations along the way.
The hike is easy enough for beginners, yet still offers plenty of adventure and surprises along the way.
6. Disappearing Creek at Camp Branch, White Springs
Hiking to Camp Branch in White Springs, Florida is the perfect way to get away for a day of adventure and breathtaking waterfalls.
Stroll through the ancient oaks and sweetgums as you meander along Disappearing Creek, marveling at the inspired artwork that Mother Nature has created.
Be sure to bring your camera and binoculars so you can capture every moment of this wonderful watery adventure!
7. Econfina River State Park – Youngstown, FL
This 4500 acre park features a series of hiking trails that meander along the shores of Econfina River as it flows from nearby Deer Point Lake into Apalachee Bay.
Along these trails you can explore various ecosystems such as pine flatwoods, cypress swamps, hardwood hammocks, sandhills and scrublands – each offering something unique for hikers to enjoy.
If you’re lucky enough to catch it at just the right time in late spring or early summer you may even catch sight of one of the many waterfalls that cascade down its riverbanks!
8. Steinhatchee Falls – Steinhatchee, FL
Steinhatchee Falls in Florida is an incredible sight for the waterfalls-seeking adventurer.
With multiple waterfalls and a winding trail to hike, the trek to them is just as beautiful as the waterfalls themselves! Ready to take the plunge into waterfalls hiking?
Make sure to check out the Steinhatchee Trail which is filled with amazing views of waterfalls and more – perhaps a few native animals peeking around – as they enter deep into Florida’s tropical wonderlands.
Whether you’re ready to tackle it alone or challenge some friends, remember that water and sturdy shoes are musts if you want to navigate this unique and natural treat with ease. Have fun!
9. Weeping Ridge Trail – Bristol, FL
Are you looking for an enjoyable and invigorating weekend getaway? Look no further than the breathtaking waterfalls of Weeping Ridge Trail in Bristol, FL.
Not only will you take in the stunning views of nature at its finest, but this hike provides waterfalls that are sure to leave you feeling pampered and ready to start the work week!
Measuring 1.6 miles long, this moderate trek winds through sprawling forests filled with wildlife and takes you over a dozen cascading waterfalls built up after years of erosion into these small chutes.
10. Little Big Econ State Forest – Oveido, FL
If you’re looking for something adventurous to do outdoors in Florida, the waterfalls of Little Big Econ State Forest provide a unique opportunity.
Located in Oveido, FL, the waterfalls here offer an escape from the flatlands typically associated with this part of the state and provide a glimpse into a truly untouched corner of Florida’s wild side.
The park has miles of hiking trails for experienced adventurers as well as beginner-friendly paths that are perfect for families looking to explore waterfalls in Florida.
Of course, it goes without saying that weatherproof attire is recommended – after all it is the Sunshine State – but otherwise come prepared to feel like you’ve stepped into another world where nature still reigns supreme!
11. Bulls Bay Preserve – Jacksonville, FL
Bull’s Bay Preserve waterfalls trail hiking in Jacksonville, Florida offers visitors a breathtaking and unique experience.
The waterfalls provide an atmosphere of serene beauty unlike anything else, with plenty of opportunities for spectacular photographs. This picturesque area also provides five miles of trails for wildlife viewing and enjoying the many wildflowers and wooded areas that line the banks of the waterfalls.
Along the way, hikers can stop to admire or rest beneath the shade of old-growth trees while catching glimpses of some unusual water birds. In addition, visitors will find plenty of interesting surprises along the journey such as ancient pastures and abandoned structures tucked away in the rural countryside.
Whether seeking a leisurely stroll in nature or a challenging outdoor adventure, Bull’s Bay Preserve waterfalls trail hiking is sure to delight all interested!
🌺Bonus!: Botanical Gardens with Waterfalls💦
11. Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens – Williston, FL
Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens is an enchanting location in Florida where waterfalls, gardens, pathways and woodlands come together to create a charming spectacle.
Whether you are looking to spend a romantic day with your special someone, take the kids for an outdoor adventure or just want some much-needed peace and quiet for yourself, Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens has it all.
Stroll past lush waterfalls teeming with wildlife, explore exotic flowers that invoke a feeling of awe and marvel at the tranquil ponds shrouded by old-growth trees. It’s no wonder why Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens are considered one of the most breathtaking waterfalls in Florida!
12. Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens – Del Ray, FL
Located in Delray Beach, Florida, the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens is a hidden waterfalls-in-Florida oasis of peace and beauty.
The museum hosts an extensive collection of Japanese works of art, while the gardens provide a tranquil setting to enjoy its lush landscape. With multiple waterfalls, koi ponds, and bonsai trees, it’s easy to spend hours exploring the grounds and admiring its diverse flora and fauna.
Whether you’re looking for educational inspiration or simply looking for a pleasant place to have a leisurely stroll, the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens offers something for everyone.
Be sure to come prepared with your camera—you’re bound to capture some stunning shots!
13. McKee Botanical Garden – Vero Beach, FL
The McKee Botanical Garden is a unique oasis in the Sunshine State, with waterfalls and tropical vegetation everywhere you turn.
Whether you’re looking for an immersive experience to connect with nature, or just want to take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, McKee Botanical Garden offers something for everyone.
From water movement through waterfalls and bird motiff sculptures, to lush greenery and verdant scenes, the garden will leave you enchanted from the moment you arrive until long after you leave.
There’s something magical about waterfalls in Florida, but even more so at McKee Botanical Garden – their waterfalls have been alluring guests for years!
14. Sunken Gardens – St. Petersburg, FL
There is no better place to explore waterfalls in Florida than the hidden gem of Sunken Gardens, located in St. Petersburg.
This beautiful oasis is committed to sustainability with its unique water-plant interactions and water conservation methods, so you can enjoy all that nature has to offer without feeling guilty about it.
Once here, take a stroll through the winding paths framed with fragrant floral beds or find a cozy spot on the grassy knolls while admiring the big waterfalls cascading down from rock formations.
If water isn’t your thing, then feed off of the calming vibes as you watch playful butterflies dart across your view. Whatever brings you here, you’ll be sure to leave this haven feeling refreshed, relaxed and invigorated!
15. Hollis Garden – Lakeland, FL
Hollis Gardens in Florida is a lush oasis with something for everyone to appreciate. From waterfalls to peaceful walkways, the gardens offer an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Here you can find waterfalls cascading down natural embankments while vibrant flowers line walkways that meander through the grounds – it’s as close as one can get to experiencing waterfalls in Florida without having to go on a hike!
Peppered throughout are spots perfect for picnics and even opportunities to practice yoga in nature. No matter your preference, Hollis Gardens is sure to provide visitors with wonderful memories.
16. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens – Sarasota, FL
Visit the gorgeous Marie Selby Botanical Gardens and you’ll understand why they call Florida the “Sunshine State”.
Located in sunny Sarasota, these waterfalls in Florida provide a tranquil environment filled with serene water features, lush blooming gardens, and walkways surrounded by exotic foliage.
With something for everyone, the gardens offer educational opportunities, exercise classes set against natural beauty, breathtaking views of Sarasota Bay, and even special events throughout the year!
From sweet fragrance-filled blooms to majestic waterfalls sure to take your breath away, make this unique destination part of your next adventure.
17. The Wonder Gardens – Bonita Springs, FL
If you’re looking for a watery getaway without leaving the Sunshine State, look no further than The Wonder Gardens of Florida!
This family-friendly attraction has something for everyone, ranging from the colorfully restored botanical gardens to its unique waterfalls. Get up close and personal with the local wildlife – take a boat ride to explore their coves, spot alligators of various sizes sunning themselves in their natural habitat, and even visit exotic birds like flamingos in their aviary.
Whether you’re a tourist visiting Florida or a local looking for a bit of adventure, make sure you visit The Wonder Gardens during your next trip!
💦Florida’s Waterfall Hiking Trails FAQ🥾
What are the best hiking trails with waterfalls in Florida?
Falling Waters State Park and Big Shoals State Park are some of the most popular locations for hiking with scenic views.
What are the most well-known waterfalls in Florida?
Falling Water Sink in Falling Waters State Park is the most well known waterfall in Florida. It is the tallest natural waterfall, and no one knows where the water ends up!
What are the best hiking trails in Florida?
We have an article dedicated to 21 Best Hiking Trails in Florida. Check it out!
Are there mountains to hike in Florida?
Florida is close to sea level, and not known for having any real mountains, but there are some “mountain like” hikes if your looking for a challenge!
Check out our article Explore 3 of the Mountains to Hike in Florida.
Conclusion: Exploring 11 Hiking Trails with Waterfalls in Florida
Florida offers some truly remarkable hiking experiences with stunning natural beauty around every corner – especially when it comes to its waterfall hikes!
Whether you’re looking for an easy stroll or an adventurous excursion through lush forests and wildflower meadows – there’s something here for everyone who loves nature and outdoor adventure!
So grab your hiking boots & camera (or phone!) and hit one (or all!) of these trails today! You won’t regret it
