Walking trails in Port St. Lucie offer some of the most breathtaking nature experiences along the Treasure Coast.
With peaceful nature retreats, wildlife in sight, or simply a beautiful exercise route, this city has it all.
In this guide, we take you through the best paths to hike or walk in Port St. Lucie, with views from the rich preserves to lakeside routes and everything in between, showcasing our region’s beautiful flora and fauna.
Oxbow Eco-Center
Oxbow Eco-Center is a hidden gem for nature lovers, with 225 acres of land and about 3.5 miles of trails. The preserve contains floodplain forests, pine flatwoods, waterways, and wetlands.
Some of the most frequented trails here would be the Oxbow Blue Heron, Gopher Tortoise Loop, Raccoon Trail, and Limpkin Trail. Each trail provides a different experience, from towering pines to relaxing views of the river.
Wildlife sightings are common in the area, with visitors often spotting turtles, birds, and gopher tortoises. There are also numerous local bird species that call the center home.
Furthermore, the Eco-Center offers educational programs and guided hikes for persons of all ages.
There is no cost, and trails are open Tuesday through Friday from noon to 4:00 PM and Saturday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Dogs are allowed on leashes, so bring the whole family for a nice day out.
Spruce Bluff Preserve
For those who love an Old-Florida setting, the Spruce Bluff Preserve is one of the walking trails in Port St. Lucie that must be on your list.
This 97-acre site comes with two self-guided interpretive trails that lead you through time.
One trail leads the visitors from the pioneer settlement remnants of 1891 along the banks of the St. Lucie River to a historic cemetery. The other trail shows a mound of Native Americans and highlights the historical uses of native plants.
It’s a place where you can walk for miles and feel immersed in what the land was like before development.
Woodstork Trail/Hillmoor Lake Park
For a laid-back stroll with scenic views, Woodstork Trail at Hillmoor Lake Park is a great spot.
This location has a 1.8-mile paved loop, which is well within a serene lake. Wildlife is also present in the area, ranging from turtles, birds, and alligators.
Exercise stations are also found scattered along the trail, providing an option for those who are looking for more sweat sessions in their routines.
For families with children, there is a playground and a picnic area, both of which make the park an ideal place to visit.
The park is open from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM year-round.
Oak Hammock Park
If you are into shaded trails and diverse ecosystems, Oak Hammock Park is another location that you should visit. There are tons of parks in Port St. Lucie that offer waterfront trails, paved paths, and great views of local flora and fauna.
Spanning 198 acres, the park has about 1.5 miles of trails winding through oak hammocks, pine flatwoods, and cypress swamps.
This park is perfect for wildlife lovers. Deer, bunnies, and various birds are commonly seen along the trails. It is a peaceful retreat that will feel miles away from the city.
Like many parks in the area, the park has a playground and picnic areas. It is open every day from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Savannas Preserve White Trail
For adventurers longing for even longer hikes, the Savannas Preserve White Trail is a must-see.
Within the boundaries of the 6,000-acre Savannas Preserve State Park, it runs for 7.9 miles, with all of the sounds and sights of immersing yourself into the largest freshwater marsh system in Florida.
There are more than 15 miles of multi-use trails accessible to hikers, bikers, and horse riders. These include the Savannas Preserve White Trails, along with the Glass Lizard Trail and Gopher Tortoise Trail, all of which are famed for breathtaking views.
The nature preserve opens at 8:00 AM until sunset and has a very low entrance fee of $3 per vehicle entering the park.
Tips for Hiking & Walking in Port St. Lucie
Hiking and intensive walking on the Treasure Coast requires planning and preparation. The area’s climate, terrain, and wildlife all impact your experience. The best time to hike in Florida is between late October and mid-April unless you’re looking to break an extra sweat. The summer months bring intense heat and humidity, making early mornings your best bet for shorter day hikes.
Hydration is crucial. Always carry enough water and snacks for your trip, as some trails may not have these utilities. If you’re going to a local park to go walking or hiking, then you’ll likely have water fountains nearby.
Exploring hiking and walking trails in Port St. Lucie is one of the best ways to connect with nature and experience the beauty of Florida’s Treasure Coast.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack some water, wear comfortable shoes, and set out to discover the natural wonders waiting for you in Port St. Lucie!
