Grab your gear, fill up your reusable water bottle, and pack your sense of adventure. It’s time to explore the best trails Gulf County has to offer. No matter your pace, there’s a path for you. Whether it's an easygoing boardwalk or a sandy trek through the wild, there’s a trail here for every type of explorer. Pack out what you pack in, take some pics, and Leave No Trace behind. Toss on those sneakers (or your most trail-ready flip-flops) and let’s hit the trail!

Maritime Hammock Trail

When it comes to scenic walks in Gulf County, this one takes the cake. This hidden gem is as good as it gets. The Maritime Hammock Trail in Cape San Blas has a little bit of everything. Whether you’re a beach lover or trail trekker, you’ll find plenty of ways to explore.

This trail packs a whole lot of Gulf County goodness into just a half mile. You’ll start on a boardwalk, but don’t let that fool you. It’s a proper trail after that. It’s well maintained but rugged enough to keep things interesting.

After walking for a bit, the trail gives you a choice. Go right and you’ll find white sand, twisted driftwood that looks like art, and a whole crab community doing their thing. Go left and you're heading into what feels like a secret passage to Old Florida. It’s shady, serene, and all natural.

The path is lined with leaves, soft sand, and just the right amount of adventure. Watch your step for roots. Nature likes to keep you on your toes.

Know Before You Go

• Parking is plentiful at the trailhead.
   
• This trail is between the entrance to T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park and the pay booth. Be a friend of the parks and pay the $6 fee.
   
• Dogs are welcome, but not on the beach. Keep them leashed and Leave No Trace.
   
• BRING BUG SPRAY. You’ll thank us later.
   
• There are two benches to relax and enjoy the view.
   
• Leaves of three? Leave it be. Avoid poison ivy.
   
• This trail is shady on the hammock side, but still bring sunglasses, a hat, and water.

This is what Gulf County is all about: getting outside and enjoying the journey. You’ll be happy you did.

Bay View Scenic Trail

If you’ve ever dreamed of taking a stroll in Old Florida, a time before the high rises and headaches, you're in luck. Bay View Scenic Trail is basically a time machine to the good old days, or at least the version your grandpa won’t stop talking about at family dinners.

This 1.6-mile trek along the edge of St. Joseph Bay is the stuff of nature enthusiasts' daydreams. You might catch whitetail deer grabbing a snack, bobcats rustling through the pines, or tiny mice scampering through the leaves. It’s not a history book. It’s just a Tuesday out here. Take a deep breath. That’s the good stuff: earthy, salty, and just a little bit magical.

The trail path consists of soft sand with roots, pine needles, and the occasional fiddler crab guiding your way. Keep an eye out for slash pines, salt myrtle, and beach rosemary. They share their space with birds of all kinds. Ospreys, herons, egrets, and if you’re lucky, a bald eagle soaring overhead like it owns the place. It sort of does.

Know Before You Go

• Parking is available at the trailhead.
   
• This trail is inside T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park, and there’s a $6 fee per car.
   
• Visit early morning or evening to avoid that Florida heat.
   
• There’s little shade, so bring bug spray, water, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera.
   
• Benches along the way are perfect for birdwatching or a quick break.
   
• Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash and cleaned up after.
   
• Watch for poison ivy and give wildlife their space.

Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just want to wander where the wild things are, Bay View Scenic Trail is calling. And trust us, it’s worth the sandy shoes.

Serenity Trail at Salinas Park Bayside

Serenity Trail is for the explorer who wants to kick back and relax. No trailblazing or rattlesnake wrangling required. The only requirements of this trail are to take a deep breath, stop speed walking to your next destination, and slow down for a while. Trust us, this is what visiting Gulf County is all about.

This trail is a one-third-mile stroll alongside St. Joseph Bay. Bird watchers and plant enthusiasts, this place is your own personal paradise. Grab some binoculars and one of those cool hats you guys wear and get ready to listen to the birds sing for you as you meander through magnificent magnolias, pines, and palms.

Don’t worry about getting your sneakers dirty. This path is a smooth boardwalk the entire way so you can focus on soaking in those views.

Know Before You Go

• There is plenty of parking at Salinas Park.
   
• There are water fountains at the trailhead and benches throughout the trail.
   
• The trail is an ADA-accessible boardwalk meant for all types of explorers.
   
• Slow down, take a deep breath, maybe even have a seat, and enjoy the views. Nobody is rushing you, I promise.
   
• Pups allowed! Leash them and leave no trace.
   
• Keep your head on a swivel, nature lovers. There are little signs throughout the walk that tell you all about the wildlife and plant species you may encounter along the way.

Swing by Serenity Trail to get away from the hustle and bustle of your daily life. In Gulf County, time moves a little slower, and that’s exactly how we like it.

Port City Trail

The Port City Trail is like your own personal tour guide of Port St. Joe. Its winding path takes visitors and locals alike through the city, around neighborhoods, parks, schools, and historical landmarks. On this trail, you’re a local by association. Take your kids, including your fur babies, on a walk, jog, or bike. There won’t be any groaning or growling. There’s a little bit of something for everyone on this trail.
 

This nearly four-mile paved path is perfect for getting your steps in without leaving vacation mode. It’s a favorite for workout warriors who like to squeeze in a jog, walk, or ride while soaking up the sights. It’s the best of both worlds.

Don’t worry. The trail has you covered. You’ll find restrooms, water fountains, and plenty of signs with helpful info along the way. It also passes right by the Gulf County Welcome Center. Swing in, enjoy some air conditioning, and stock up on resources for the rest of your adventure.

Know Before You Go

• You can park at any of the parks along the trail and start the trail at any point.
   
• There is not much shade on the trail, so it is best to explore in the mornings or evenings.
   
• Bring your water bottle, hat, and sunglasses.
   
• Well-behaved pets are welcome. Remember to keep it wild.
   
• There are parks and even a fitness area for adults on the trail.

Don’t just take our word for it. The Port City Trail is a local favorite for a reason. You won’t want to miss out on this trail on your next visit.

Thanks for tagging along with us! If you’ve got questions, need a trail tip, or just want more ways to explore, swing by the Gulf County Welcome Center or check out our website. We’ll see you out on the trails!