Cypress Swamp Trail, Highlands Hammock State Park, Florida

ACTIVITIES: Biking, birding, camping, geoseeking, hiking, museum, picnicking, wildlife viewing

LENGTH OF HIKE: 0.5 mile

OUT AND BACK OR LOOP: Loop

DIFFICULTY OF TERRAIN: Easy

ELEVATION GAIN: No

PARKING FEE/PASS: $6

TOILETS: Yes

CHANGING TABLE: No

NURSING BENCHES: Yes

DOGS ALLOWED: Yes

BIKES/HORSES/MOTORS ON TRAIL: No

CELL RECEPTION: Spotty

DRINKING WATER AVAILABLE: Yes

POTENTIAL CHILD OR BABY HAZARDS: Wildlife, swampy areas, insects,
narrow boardwalks

GEAR SUGGESTIONS: Child carrier or harness, insect spray, sunscreen/sun protection, snacks, water, camera

One of Florida’s oldest parks, this 9,000-acre expanse offers a labyrinth of trails throughout the park and has everything from botanical gardens to boardwalks to view the wildlife and landscape. The park was first developed in 1931 during the
Great Depression as part of a Civilian Conservation Corps project. The park protects large tracts of pine flatwoods, hydric hammock, cypress swamp, and baygall and is known for being home to 1,000-yearold oaks. Large wildlife includes deer, black bears, and the rarely seen but present Florida panther. Smaller critters include armadillos, turtles, and otters. Look out for many varieties of birds,  including red-tailed hawks, pileated woodpeckers looking for red carpenter ants, and sleeping owls high in the trees.

Catwalks and elevated boardwalks traverse cypress swamp and visitors may observe alligators birds swamp, and visitors may observe alligators, birds,
and other wildlife. These narrow boardwalks make up a good portion of the trail through the swampy areas. They are open on one side, giving a bit of thrill walking
along the cypress trees and dark water and might make a parent of a little one nervous, but it’s worth the walk. “On the sections of trail where it went to the open, narrow boardwalk, we chose to carry. I wouldn’t pass up taking the boardwalks. They were a bit intimidating from a mom’s standpoint, but it was worth taking the extra precautions and taking the trail slow to see. They really do feel more adventurous and provide a one-of-a-kind experience. It would be easy for a little one to slip off the side, but don’t let that deter you—it’s a mustsee,” says Abby  Czachur.

Most of the trails within the park are shorter in distance and are worth checking out the different aspects of the Florida environment. While we recommend one here to get started on, this park offers many toddler-friendly options that are easy to evaluate when your family visits. The Cypress Swamp Trail takes you through part of a picturesque Florida swamp dotted with large old cypress trees. The majority of this trail and others outside the narrow boardwalks can be comfortably walked in tennis shoes by most ages of children. This trail, like many in the park, is mostly shaded, but it’s always recommended to bring sunscreen or sun protection while hiking in Florida.

There is also sand everywhere and three playgrounds that you might happen upon when exploring. For nursing moms, or if you are bringing an elderly family member, some of the trails have benches, so inquire with the park attendants about
which trails you will find these on.

Consider checking this hike out near the end of winter when it’s cooler out and not very buggy. In late fall, winter, and early spring, you will avoid excessive heat and insects. Different times of the year can affect water levels and provide different scenery in the swamp. But there can also be closures if stormy, so keep that in mind. If you are having one of those days with a toddler meltdown, consider taking the tram tour through the park. There is a fee ($5 adults/$3 kids) for this, but it’s a great way to not miss out on all the park has to offer.

WHY IT’S A FAVORITE
“In the heart of Florida, Highland Hammock gives the truest sense of what the real Florida is in all its natural and wild beauty. The stillness of the area was breathtaking. It was quiet and so very still, which was amazing to watch my daughter take in. The boardwalks only have a simple railing on one side, making it more adventurous.” —ABBY CZACHUR

INSIDER’S TIP
Bugs are fierce here. Bring lots of repellent or risk being “bugged” for the entire  hike. The hike is also hot and humid, so bring water to hydrate. Lastly, keep an eye out for rattlesnakes. They are nocturnal but are always present in this park. If you are lucky enough to find yourself in the park close to dusk, be on the lookout for fireflies magically lighting up the forest.