Best Canoe and Kayak Trails
Florida’s natural waterways offer some of the most scenic and diverse canoeing and kayaking experiences in the country. From crystal-clear springs to coastal mangrove tunnels and vast river systems, paddlers of all skill levels can find the perfect adventure.
Here are the top canoe and kayak trails across the state, organized by region.
Northwest Florida (Panhandle)
1. Blackwater River
- Location: Milton, FL
- Highlights: The Blackwater River is one of the purest sand-bottom rivers in the U.S. Known for its gentle current and clear waters, it’s ideal for a relaxing paddle surrounded by white sandbars and lush forests.
- Trail Length: 8-11 miles (varies by section)
- Best For: Beginners and families.
2. Coldwater Creek
- Location: Near Milton, FL
- Highlights: This shallow, spring-fed creek winds through dense pine forests and white sandbars, offering a peaceful and scenic experience.
- Trail Length: 7-11 miles
- Best For: Families and nature enthusiasts.
3. Econfina Creek
- Location: Washington County
- Highlights: Known for its natural beauty, Econfina Creek features crystal-clear springs, limestone outcrops, and small rapids that make for an adventurous paddle.
- Trail Length: 11 miles
- Best For: Intermediate paddlers.
Northeast Florida
4. Silver Springs State Park
- Location: Ocala, FL
- Highlights: Paddle through some of Florida’s clearest waters while spotting manatees, turtles, and alligators. The iconic glass-bottom boat tours also operate here.
- Trail Length: 5 miles
- Best For: All skill levels; perfect for wildlife lovers.
5. St. Johns River
- Location: East-Central Florida
- Highlights: As one of the longest rivers in Florida, this historic waterway offers endless options for paddling, with wildlife-rich wetlands and scenic backwaters.
- Trail Length: Multiple routes up to 310 miles
- Best For: All levels, depending on the section.
6. Juniper Run (Juniper Springs)
- Location: Ocala National Forest
- Highlights: A favorite among kayakers, this spring-fed run winds through a shaded forest with crystal-clear water and challenging turns.
- Trail Length: 7 miles
- Best For: Intermediate to advanced paddlers.
Central Florida
7. Wekiwa Springs State Park
- Location: Apopka, FL
- Highlights: Paddle the Wekiva River from the headwaters at Wekiwa Springs. This serene waterway offers lush greenery, gentle currents, and plenty of wildlife.
- Trail Length: 8 miles round-trip
- Best For: Beginners and families.
8. Rock Springs Run
- Location: Kelly Park, Apopka
- Highlights: Known for its turquoise water and winding path, Rock Springs Run provides a peaceful, scenic paddle through tropical vegetation.
- Trail Length: 8.5 miles
- Best For: Intermediate paddlers.
9. Hillsborough River State Park
- Location: Thonotosassa, FL
- Highlights: Paddle through lush forests and cypress swamps with occasional sightings of alligators, turtles, and wading birds.
- Trail Length: 5-10 miles
- Best For: All skill levels.
Southwest Florida
10. Myakka River
- Location: Myakka River State Park, Sarasota
- Highlights: Florida’s first designated wild and scenic river offers miles of serene paddling through oak hammocks and wetlands, with opportunities for birdwatching and alligator spotting.
- Trail Length: 7-15 miles (varies by section)
- Best For: All levels.
11. Peace River
- Location: Arcadia, FL
- Highlights: Famous for fossil hunting, the Peace River features calm waters, white sandbars, and scenic banks.
- Trail Length: 8-15 miles
- Best For: Beginners and fossil enthusiasts.
12. Estero River
- Location: Estero, FL
- Highlights: Paddle through mangrove tunnels and coastal estuaries with calm waters and beautiful scenery.
- Trail Length: 6-8 miles
- Best For: All levels; perfect for exploring marine life.
Southeast Florida
13. Loxahatchee River
- Location: Jonathan Dickinson State Park, Hobe Sound
- Highlights: As Florida’s first designated wild and scenic river, the Loxahatchee offers paddlers a magical experience through cypress swamps and mangroves.
- Trail Length: 8.5 miles
- Best For: Intermediate paddlers.
14. Oleta River State Park
- Location: North Miami
- Highlights: Paddle through mangrove tunnels and calm bays with skyline views of Miami. Rentals are available on-site.
- Trail Length: 4-6 miles
- Best For: Beginners and urban explorers.
15. Biscayne National Park
- Location: Homestead, FL
- Highlights: Explore the crystal-clear waters and mangrove coastlines of Biscayne Bay. It’s perfect for spotting tropical fish, dolphins, and manatees.
- Trail Length: Varies
- Best For: All skill levels.
Florida Keys
16. Indian Key Historic State Park
- Location: Islamorada, FL
- Highlights: Paddle over shallow, clear waters to reach the historic island. It’s ideal for snorkeling and exploring the ruins of a 19th-century settlement.
- Trail Length: 1-2 miles round-trip
- Best For: Beginners and history lovers.
17. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
- Location: Key Largo, FL
- Highlights: Paddle through mangrove trails or explore the coral reefs with a combination of kayaking and snorkeling.
- Trail Length: 2-5 miles
- Best For: All skill levels; snorkelers.
18. Bahia Honda State Park
- Location: Big Pine Key, FL
- Highlights: Known for its turquoise water and stunning beaches, Bahia Honda offers easy paddling with chances to spot sea turtles and rays.
- Trail Length: Varies
- Best For: Beginners and families.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful paddle through crystal-clear springs, a thrilling exploration of mangrove tunnels, or an adventure on a historic river, Florida offers canoe and kayak trails to suit every interest and skill level. Pack your gear and set out to explore the Sunshine State’s incredible waterways.
