Exploring the trails of the Space Coast

Florida’s Space Coast is a natural wonder with 72 miles of beaches, waterways that flow throughout, and unique ecosystems to explore. 

The Space Coast is home to more than 50 trails that range from smaller nature loops to larger trail systems presenting more wildlife and eco-diversity like the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.One of the highlights here is the Black Point Wildlife Drive, a seven-mile, self-guided tour where visitors can observe birds and alligators. The Refuge also offers six hiking trails, a manatee observation deck and is home to 500 species of wildlife and 140 species of freshwater and saltwater fish. It is only open to smaller vehicles and there is a $10 admission fee per vehicle.

The Enchanted Forest Sanctuary is on an ancient coastal ridge and preserves a diversity of natural habitats. Several miles of hiking trails can be enjoyed by visitors, offering opportunities for wildlife observation and nature photography. Both temperate and subtropical plants grow here allowing for a wealth of plant life and wildlife such as snakes, lizards, tortoises, deer and bobcats. Free entry.

Visitors search for Bald Eagles on the wing or a flock of Roseate Spoonbills resting in a lagoon – two of more than 300 species of birds found along 40 stops of the Great Florida Birding & Wildlife Trail, which leads through the whole State of Florida.  There are many nature trails visitors can stroll, bike, or hike down to experience the wealth of wildlife and native plants. The Space Coast is located on the Eastern Continental Flyway, making it prime for birding during the winter season.

Cyclists have a choice of longer trails, three of which converge in the north of the region in Titusville or visitors may cycle or walk a smaller section in the region: The Coast-to-Coast trail goes from Titusville on the Space Coast to St. Petersburg on the west coast of Florida.  St. John´s River to Sea Loop follows the course of the river then back down the East Coast as far as Titusville and the East Coast Greenway, running along the Atlantic coast from Maine to Key West and passing through Titusville.

Boating enthusiasts can plot their own trails along the coastline or along the Intracoastal Waterway, also known as Indian River and additional waterways such as Headwaters Lake, Lake Washington, Lake Poinsett, Lake Winder, Sawgrass Lake, the St. John´s River and the Banana River. Boaters can search for dolphins and manatees in the water and can enjoy fresh or saltwater fishing, watersports, nature trekking or simple cruising. There are lots of sandy islands to swim, picnic and meet other boaters or visit one of the restaurants along the way.

At Sebastian Inlet State Park  combine a hike along a trail with a visit to the beach or the inland lagoon. Entrance to the Park costs $8 per vehicle and trail maps are available at the gate. Visitors hike around the coastal hammocks and experience the beauty of the Indian River Lagoon or the surf of the Atlantic Ocean, wading through the Cove inland or spotting wildlife from the fishing pier.

Smaller trails will often lead visitors along the coast and waterways, also offering an ideal opportunity for witnessing one of the region´s many rocket launches. There were 72 launches in 2023, more than one launch per week to be seen from anywhere in the County. The official website advises on the upcoming launches and the vast choice of viewing locations.

More information on the trail options and other activities on Florida´s Space Coast can be found on the official website. 

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