If you're looking for an unforgettable outdoor experience in Panama City Beach, Florida, you won't be disappointed. From urban jungles to steamy rainforests, from thundering waterfalls to mist-covered cloud forests, Panama City offers a wild hiking adventure and the chance to get up close and personal with fascinating flora and fauna. The Econfina Creek section of the Florida Trail, located north of Panama City, is one of the most thrilling trails in the area. This 4-mile stretch snakes along the rolling hillsides and provides stunning views of the eponymous stream.
The Pine Log State Forest, Florida's oldest state forest north of Panama City Beach, also offers a variety of circular trails, as well as a segment of the Florida State Trail. The Panama City Conservation Park has more than 35 kilometers of trails suitable for both cyclists and hikers. The Orange Trail Loop in the Point Washington State Forest is a 6.5-mile loop considered one of the best hikes near Panama City Beach. This well-marked round trip path can be steep and slippery, but you'll be immersed in an evergreen jungle with tall trees, huge leaves and vines dotted with brightly colored tropical flowers.
West of the Apalachicola River, the Florida Trail links a series of public lands along the Northwest Florida Greenway corridor. A two-hour drive from Panama City, El Valle is a popular weekend destination for city residents, so go during the week to avoid the crowds. Whether you're looking for an easy stroll or a challenging hike, Panama City Beach has something for everyone. Over the past few years, as I explored more and more trails in my area, I started looking for less visited areas and hiking in them.
From urban jungles to steamy rainforests, from thundering waterfalls to mist-covered cloud forests, Panama City offers a unique opportunity to explore nature and discover its hidden gems. The Econfina Creek section of the Florida Trail is one of the most challenging trails in the area. This 4-mile stretch snakes along rolling hillsides and provides breathtaking views of Econfina Creek. The Pine Log State Forest also offers a variety of circular trails as well as a segment of the Florida State Trail.
The Orange Trail Loop in Point Washington State Forest is a 6.5-mile loop considered one of the best hikes near Panama City Beach. This well-marked round trip path can be steep and slippery but it's worth it for its evergreen jungle with tall trees, huge leaves and vines dotted with brightly colored tropical flowers. West of Apalachicola River lies the Florida Trail which links a series of public lands along Northwest Florida Greenway corridor. El Valle is a popular weekend destination for city residents located two hours away from Panama City - go during weekdays to avoid crowds! Whether you're looking for an easy stroll or a challenging hike, Panama City Beach has something for everyone.
With its diverse range of trails and landscapes, it's no wonder that this city is becoming increasingly popular among outdoor enthusiasts.
