Fort Lauderdale might be known for its sunny beaches and lively nightlife, but just beyond the city bustle, you’ll find a surprising variety of hiking trails that offer peace, scenery, and wildlife encounters. Whether you crave a quiet boardwalk stroll or a shady loop for your daily walk, there’s a green spot nearby waiting to be explored.
Let’s get to it.
Airport Greenbelt Park
Nestled next to Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport, Airport Greenbelt Park spans thirty acres of well-kept grass, shady trees, and wide-open spaces. Plane spotters and families flock here to watch takeoffs and landings while lounging on the greenbelt.
Two main routes serve visitors: the Berm Trail and the Flat Trail. The Berm Trail covers about 1.5 miles round-trip, climbing up a 35-foot berm with gentle rises. In contrast, the Flat Trail is a shorter, smooth loop ideal for strollers and wheelchairs.
Shade from scattered tree lines offers relief on sunny days, and free parking along S Perimeter Road means you won’t circle forever searching for a spot. Near the runway, there’s a small lake and grassy patches perfect for a picnic as jets roar overhead. Cooler months bring more comfortable temps, while summer hikes on the berm can feel more like a workout than a casual stroll.
Annie Beck Park
Tucked away in a residential area, Annie Beck Park might be easy to miss, but it delivers a quiet spot for relaxation. A quarter-mile trail begins with a paved sidewalk along Victoria Park Road, transitions to a short staircase, and opens out to a canal lined with mangroves and marsh grasses.
Open lawns and scattered benches invite casual picnics, while a gazebo offers shelter from the sun. A small kayak launch provides water access for paddlers. Street parking fills up on weekends quickly, so plan to arrive early if you hope to park nearby.
Stroller and wheelchair users may find the stairs and uneven grass challenging, but leashed dogs are welcome to join. No restrooms on site, so visitors should prepare accordingly. Despite its modest size, the park serves as a peaceful neighborhood escape with water views and wildlife watching.
Secret Woods Nature Center
Hidden among busy roads, Secret Woods Nature Center offers about 1.3 miles of interconnected boardwalks and trails through oak hammocks, cypress swamps, and mangrove stands. Most paths are crafted from recycled-plastic lumber, so you stay clean and splinter-free.
Interpretive signs explain local flora and fauna, and benches under shady trees provide rest stops. A butterfly garden attracts pollinators, while the Monarch Interpretive Center offers indoor exhibits on migration patterns. Restrooms are flush models, making breaks convenient.
Trails remain flat and easy, fully accessible to strollers and wheelchairs. Pets are not allowed, keeping wildlife interactions undisturbed. Crowds rarely gather except when birdwatchers arrive in cooler months or early mornings. Whether you follow every loop or linger at each exhibit, this small preserve feels both educational and serene.
Snyder Park
Covering ninety-three acres of green space, Snyder Park packs in trails, sports courts, and wildlife spotting. A 1.5-mile nature trail winds through palms and occasional mud patches, while a separate bike path of similar length offers a smooth ride for cyclists of all levels.
For stroller or wheelchair users, a paved loop circles the park’s two small lakes. Picnic tables and grills line the shore, and a butterfly garden, fruit trees, and basking turtles add variety. Benches appear when you need a rest, and restrooms stand nearby.
Sports fans will find basketball courts, volleyball nets, disc golf baskets, and horseshoe pits. Four-legged friends can romp in the fenced bark park or swim at the dog beach. On weekdays, parking is free; on weekends, a small fee helps manage crowds. Bring an umbrella in summer to dodge sudden showers or muddy spots.
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
At the edge of the Intracoastal Waterway, Hugh Taylor Birch State Park feels like an urban retreat. A 1.8-mile paved loop weaves through coastal hammock and banyan groves, staying almost perfectly flat. Early mornings bring quiet trails, while midday sees more foot traffic along the main loop.
Beyond the paved circuit, dirt paths lead into mangroves and butterfly gardens, where tortoises and occasional raccoons appear. Picnic areas with grills and benches dot the landscape, and a concession stand rents beach chairs and gear when the Florida sun gets intense.
Dogs on leashes are welcome, and waste stations help keep the air fresh. Accessible restrooms and available beach wheelchairs ensure that visitors of all abilities can explore the park. Whether you seek a gentle stroll among palms or glimpses of wildlife by the water, this park combines convenience with natural charm.
River Oaks Preserve
River Oaks Preserve features a nine-acre elevated boardwalk winding through Florida wetlands. The flat walkway keeps feet dry and provides gentle access at all points of the trail. Interpretive signs explain local plant species and wetland ecology. A historic timber bridge spans a narrow channel, creating a spot for birdwatching.
The entire path is ADA-friendly, with no steps or steep sections, making it easy for strollers, wheelchairs, and bicycles. Leashed pets are allowed and owners must clean up after them. A small parking lot sits at the trailhead, often filling early so many visitors arrive on foot or by bike, which helps maintain a quiet setting.
There are no restroom facilities on site, but a covered gazebo offers seating and shade. City crews perform regular maintenance, so the boardwalk and railings remain in excellent condition. Even during peak hours, you will rarely encounter large crowds. In the wet season, mosquitoes can be abundant, so it’s wise to carry insect repellent. It’s a great destination for a short educational outing or a peaceful nature break.
Smoker Family Park
Despite its modest 1.7 acres, Smoker Family Park offers paved walking loops beneath mature oaks along the New River. The paths circle a lawn dotted with benches and provide clear views of the historic Stranahan House. A bronze statue of a Seminole girl adds a touch of public art and seems to watch parkgoers with timeless patience.
The entire site is flat, so there are no hills or uneven ground to navigate. A drinking fountain stands near the main path, and bike racks are available for cyclists. Leashed dogs are welcome, and maintenance crews keep the grounds free of litter. The park remains uncrowded even on weekends and holidays. Restroom facilities are clean and straightforward.
Early morning and evening visits bring a gentle breeze off the river and fewer visitors. Whether you want to watch boats drift by, observe passersby, or just enjoy a quiet stroll, the park’s compact design feels surprisingly spacious. It’s a neat slice of greenery amid the city’s hustle.
Bill Keith Preserve Park
Bill Keith Preserve Park might be easy to overlook, but that makes it a quiet haven for nature walks. The unpaved trails wind through hardwood hammock and mulched ground requiring sturdy shoes—strollers aren’t recommended on those loose chips. A short boardwalk extends over the river’s edge, providing clear views of the South Fork New River and its birdlife.
Along the path, you may spot burrowing crabs near the water’s edge. Picnic tables and a covered pavilion stand ready for midday breaks. The pavilion offers shade on sunny days, and the natural setting feels private despite its proximity to nearby homes. A small parking area sits close to the entrance, and that limited capacity keeps visitor numbers low.
Paddlers can launch from the designated canoe and kayak ramp, then return to relax on one of the benches. Leashed dogs are welcome and water bowls are sometimes provided near the pavilion. During warm months, mosquitoes can be persistent, so insect repellent comes in handy. Maintenance crews clear fallen limbs and remove litter regularly. This park delivers a simple, crowd-free experience amid riverfront green space.
Cliff Lake Park
Cliff Lake Park centers around a 3.34-acre lake nestled in a residential neighborhood. A paved, flat loop path circles the water in under ten minutes, passing shaded benches and a lakeside gazebo. Visitors often pause to watch ducks swim by or spot sunbathing turtles.
Beyond the loop, a playground and open fields provide space for games, while tennis and basketball courts sit nearby for more active use. Fishing spots line the lake’s edge and a small boat ramp grants access for kayaks or paddleboats.
Street parking is available along the surrounding roads; there is no dedicated lot. Dogs on leashes are welcome, but wheelchair access can be uneven in spots where curb cuts are missing. The park receives regular upkeep, with clear paths and clean facilities. However, water quality varies, so winter swimming is not advised. With its combination of casual waterside seating and a range of recreational options, Cliff Lake Park serves as a versatile community green space.
Middle River Terrace Park
Middle River Terrace Park offers a straightforward retreat on three acres of open lawns and paved trails. The wide, flat path accommodates strollers, wheelchairs, and multi-dog walkers without challenge. Early mornings or weekdays bring a mostly empty trail, punctuated by the occasional resident getting exercise.
Benches sit beneath mature trees, providing shade and seasonal fruit—mangoes drop in late spring for anyone passing by. A covered pavilion and picnic tables invite longer stays, while smooth paths and installed fitness stations support casual workouts. The exercise equipment is mounted along the trail at intervals, perfect for a quick strength routine between walking laps. The entire area feels safe and is well-lit in the evening.
Leashed dogs are welcome, and parking is rarely an issue thanks to nearby street spaces. City maintenance crews keep the grass trimmed and pathways clear of debris, making the park feel polished and ready for visitors. This park does not offer rugged terrain or hidden destinations. Instead, it delivers a calm, low-key environment where simple recreation and relaxation are the focus. Middle River Terrace Park fills a niche for stress-free outdoor time close to home.
