Follow the orange blazes! The 1,400-mile Florida Trail is within an hour's drive of most Floridians, with trailheads along many major highways such as US 98, US 90, US 441, US 301, and more. Most people day hike on segments of the Florida Trail close to home. Backpackers and long distance hikers need to consider logistical issues before heading out on a longer hike, and for that, our maps and guidebooks can assist you in planning an enjoyable trip. Closer to home, enjoy the many loop trails of the Florida Trail System in nearby state parks, state forests, and county parks.

Although a fully protected corridor for the Florida Trail is still a work-in-progress, long-distance hikers can thank Ed Talone of the American Hiking Society and Mary Pat Cross of the Western Gate chapter of the Florida Trail Association for finishing a job which volunteers started more than 35 years ago—blazing the entire trail. Orange blazes lead you the entire way from Loop Road to Pensacola, even along the roadwalks. Use common sense when following orange blazes along roadways; no matter where the blazes are, choose the side of the road where you’re facing traffic or have access to a parallel sidewalk. Double blazes indicate a turn; single blazes confirm your route.