Oz's 5 Favorite Trails to Hike in the Southeast

Today, November 17, is the American Hiking Society’s Take a Hike Day. It is a day to find a trail near you and get outside to explore nature on foot.

Founded in 1976, the American Hiking Society believes that foot trails and hiking are essential to connect people with nature, conserve open space and provide biological corridors for diverse plants and wildlife. They also believe the preservation of hiking trails and their environments is an important and worthwhile legacy to leave future generations.

We believe that too and are always looking for new, beautiful places to hike near where we live. We have not walked or hiked even half of the trails near us but of the ones we have, we have our favorites. Of course, favorite trails change the more trails you find so for now, here are 5 of Oz’s favorite places and trails to hike in the southeast U.S.

1. Tallulah Gorge State Park’s North & South Rim Trails

Tallulah Falls, Georgia

Why we love this hike: the amazing views of the gorge and its six waterfalls. The North and South Rim trails weave through dense forests and offer a combined ten overlooks to view the deep canyon. In autumn, the colors are spectacular and the weather is perfect for hiking. Oh, and let’s not forget that scenes from the movie Deliverance were filmed here too.

Read Oz’s Tallulah Gorge Adventure

2. High Falls State Park’s The Falls Trail

Jackson, Georgia

Why we love this hike: another waterfall! The Falls Trail loops through hilly forests and along the river’s edge where there are several fantastic spots to stop and enjoy the sights and sounds of the falls. This trail is also a Tails on Trails hike so you know your furry friend will love it as well.

Read Oz’s High Falls Adventure

3. Blackwater River Juniper Lake Trail

Holt, Florida

Why we love this hike: the beautiful white sand beach of the Blackwater River. This fun trail wanders through what looks like “the haunted forest” leading you to the beach along the river where you can see people canoeing, kayaking and even wading into the tannin-stained waters.

Read Oz’s Blackwater River Adventure

4. Highlands Hammock Wild Orange Grove Trail

Sebring, Florida

Why we love this hike: the search for wild growing Florida oranges and grapefruits! This trail is one where you need to look down to watch your step but where you must look up once in a while to find the fruits that Florida is known for. Though wild grown oranges and grapefruits aren’t as big or as sweet, they are still delicious.

Read Oz’s Highlands Hammock Adventure

5. Myakka River Canopy Walkway

Sarasota, Florida

Why we love this hike: the 76-foot observation tower, walkway and platform. While not dog-friendly, the tower provides a treetop view of the oak/palm hammock, wetlands and the main species who call these habitats home. This park also includes over 38 miles of hiking trails many of which are dog-friendly.
Read Oz’s Myakka River Adventure

Where are your favorite hiking trails?