Love to hike? What are some of the best trails in Lovers Key State Park? There are five miles of hiking and biking trails in Lovers Key State Park. You can explore them with friends or family or on your own. From hard-packed sand to grassy trails to sugar sand, there is much to discover here.
Lovers Key State Park Features a Variety of Trails
You’ll be able to explore the beaches as well as over 5 miles of trails in this park. The beach is two miles long, and you can experience total seclusion if you prefer.
You can experience a butterfly garden and spot herons and egrets. When you reach the water, you might spy manatees and dolphins swimming. With 4.5 miles of island trails, you’ll have a choice of your favorite environments to hike and photograph.
Where is Lovers Key State Park located?
The park is located between Fort Myers and Naples, Florida. It is comprised of 1,616-acres and offers a varied and exciting experience of nature. Four barrier islands, Lovers Key, Inner Key, Black Island, and Long Key, make up the park.
What trails are suitable for beginners?
Start your adventure at the trailhead located by the main parking area. Or use the North Entrance by the main road next to the Big Carlos Pass Bridge. You can take shortcuts to make the trail more interesting and unique. The Black Island Trail features three shortcuts within the 2.6-mile hike.
The Eagle trail on Black Island is a nature trail. It features twists and turns and cuts through the estuary between the trails of the island.
Which trails will families enjoy?
Your kids and the whole family will enjoy the resident gator when you take shortcut number 2. The gator lives on the island there, along with her family. You might see dolphins jumping and manatees playing in the estuary.
When your family needs a break from hiking, tram service is available to the south beach. Here you will find the gazebo, restroom, and picnic area.
Are there restrooms along the way?
Yes, there are several restrooms. They are located along the trail and near the tram pavilion.
Is fishing allowed?
There is saltwater fishing nearby. Catches of redfish, snook, and trout are common. You can also fish at the estuary at Black Island, where you might catch tarpon.
How can I learn more about the local environment?
Lovers Key State Park recently opened their Welcome & Discovery Center, a state-of-the-art new facility featuring an exhibit hall, classes, an observation deck, and more. Here you can enjoy a fun and beautiful emersion into the habitats and creatures that call these islands home.
Are guided kayak tours available?
Yes, along with hiking, you can enjoy guided SUP or kayaking at Lovers Key State Park. Explore old Florida as you float through winding water trails. Your guide will point out interesting features regarding nature, the trees, flowers, and wild plants growing along the way.
You’ll hear stories of pirates and the intriguing history of Black Island. A guided tour is another way, in addition to hiking its trails, to enjoy the natural beauty of Lovers Key State Park.
