From Flip Flops to Hiking Boots: The Nature Trails of Navarre

We love our beaches here in Navarre Beach, but the picturesque hiking trails that run through the heart of the county are equally deserving of admiration. Some days you want to lie out by the water and other days you want to unplug and connect with nature — so we put together this list to help you get started.

Navarre

Navarre is a gateway to the western side of Eglin Air Force Base and vast stretches of unspoiled beaches along the Gulf of Mexico. The Florida Trail passes right through Navarre en route to its northern terminus. The Naval Oaks Preserve is the nation’s first tree farm, established in 1821 by renowned president John Quincy Adams. Navarre will also lead you to the Gulf Islands National Seashore which stretches across 3 Gulf Coast States.

Speaking of the Gulf Islands National Seashore, hiking enthusiasts will love discovering the unique trail scenery skirting the edge of Santa Rosa County.

Photo by @jessiedirobbio

The Seashore

With 32.3 miles of hiking bliss along Navarre & Pensacola beaches, the Seashore is a hiker’s heaven that includes the Pensacola Bike Path, Navarre Bike Path and the wild & scenic UWF Dunes Preserve – the only National Scenic Trail section on the beach. The Florida Trail leads to the sparkling shores of Santa Rosa Island, a barrier island along the Gulf of Mexico between Navarre and Pensacola. Hiking along the beautiful, glistening sugar-white sands along the shore? Sign me up!

Navarre Beach has an incredible variety of species that call the county home. Get away from your worries and relax where the wild things are.

Photo by @kristenbythecoast

Milton

The rivers and creeks of north county make Milton the perfect destination for scenic hikes. Here’s a few of our favorite spots:

- Arcadia Mill – An archaeological site in the woods that showcases ongoing work to uncover Florida’s first “modern” industrial complex.
- Blackwater River State Park – Sandy beaches at every curve, trails for paddlers & hikers, close to the Alabama border.
- Chain of Lakes Trail – Access to sandy beaches along the river.
- Clear Creek Nature Trail – Plenty of photo ops with right red blossoms and lacy white-veined trumpets.
- Coldwater Gardens – Find a sunny spot to have a picnic, read a book and even camp out for the night.
- Florida Trail, Juniper Creek – A gorgeous place to explore in springtime when mountain laurel blooms in both pink and white, and the dogwoods put on a show.