University of North Florida Nature Trails
Explore 500 acres of natural beauty with well-maintained trails, boardwalks, and serene lake views. Open to all, it's a perfect urban escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
University of North Florida Nature Trails
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore 500 acres of natural beauty with well-maintained trails, boardwalks, and serene lake views. Open to all, it's a perfect urban escape.
"A peaceful escape with beautiful scenery, great for walks, runs, and connecting with nature. "
🚶♀️ Walk or Run
Perfect for a leisurely walk, trail run, or even a photography outing.
🚗 Parking Fee
Expect a $5 parking fee, especially during the week.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Red Maple Boardwalk
UNF Nature Trails
A wheelchair-accessible boardwalk winding through lush greenery, offering a serene nature escape.
Lake Views
Various points along the trails
Enjoy picturesque views of the lake, perfect for a peaceful stroll or a moment of reflection.
Wildlife Spotting
Throughout the preserve
Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including birds, and even the occasional alligator.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Access & Parking
Trail Conditions & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk or Run
Perfect for a leisurely walk, trail run, or even a photography outing. +1
🚗 Parking Fee
Expect a $5 parking fee, especially during the week.
☀️ Sunrise to Sunset
Trails are open daily for exploration from dawn till dusk.
📸 Photography Haven
Ideal spot for nature photography with diverse flora and fauna.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk or Run
Perfect for a leisurely walk, trail run, or even a photography outing. +1
🚗 Parking Fee
Expect a $5 parking fee, especially during the week.
☀️ Sunrise to Sunset
Trails are open daily for exploration from dawn till dusk.
📸 Photography Haven
Ideal spot for nature photography with diverse flora and fauna.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the UNF Nature Trails for their natural beauty, well-maintained paths, and accessibility, especially the Red Maple Boardwalk. It's a peaceful escape within the city, ideal for walks, runs, and wildlife spotting. Some note the occasional highway noise and slippery boardwalks, but overall, it's a highly recommended spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
"A well groomed trail system. Single path and plenty of other people on the trails including runners but everyone was courteous. We did 2 laps and did all the in-between and got almost 8 miles. The lake is pretty amd there isbplwnty of pretty bits of scenery but you can hear the cars from the highway so you dont get that "in the woods" feeling. And zero elevation, just flat. 56 feet total ascent. Some of the older boardwalks are very slippery and in need of a pressure wash. The newer decking is fantastic, although still a bit slippery if you're not sure what you're stepping on. Plenty of people around seemingly a safe space for a walk."
Joshua Andrade
"We recently visited this trail and were genuinely impressed. The entire area is packed with greenery — tall trees, peaceful surroundings, and a sense of calm you don’t often find in the city. It’s the kind of place where you instantly feel connected to nature.
The trails are easy to follow and offer a mix of scenic paths, making it great for both casual walks and light hikes. Amazing."
Leon
"This was a lovely trail and just what I needed. I recharge in nature. The lake and the view of the lake is awesome from this trail. Plenty of spins for POGO 😆 people were fishing from the bridge. There is a walkway on some sections and ground for the remainder."
Mark Kirol
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The UNF Nature Trails are located on the University of North Florida campus in Jacksonville, Florida. You can use GPS to navigate to the university, and then follow signs for the nature trails or parking areas.
While direct public transportation to the trailheads might be limited, you can take a bus to the University of North Florida campus and then walk to the trail entrances. Check local Jacksonville transit schedules for routes.
Yes, biking is a popular activity on the UNF Nature Trails. The trails are suitable for cycling, offering a great way to cover more ground and enjoy the scenery.
The trails are generally considered safe, with many people visiting for walks and runs. However, as with any outdoor area, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings and let someone know your plans.
Look for signage directing you to the nature preserve or specific trailheads once you are on the UNF campus. Many visitors find the main trails easily accessible from designated parking areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The UNF Nature Trails are open to the public. There is typically a $5 parking fee per vehicle, especially during weekdays.
The trails are open daily from sunrise to sunset, offering ample time for exploration throughout the day.
Yes, dogs are welcome on the UNF Nature Trails, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Remember to clean up after your pet.
It's always a good idea to check the University of North Florida's official website or local event listings for any potential closures or special events that might affect trail access.
While there isn't one single designated entrance, the trails are accessible from various points around the UNF campus. Following campus maps or signs for the nature preserve will lead you to the trailheads.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The UNF Nature Trails feature a network of about 5 main trails and connector loops, totaling nearly 8 miles. They offer a mix of paved boardwalks and natural ground paths.
Absolutely! The trails are perfect for hiking, offering a peaceful escape into nature. You can choose shorter loops or combine trails for a longer trek. +1
Yes, the diverse ecosystem makes it a great spot for birdwatching. You might see various local bird species as you explore the trails.
Expect lush greenery, tall trees, peaceful surroundings, and scenic lake views. Some areas offer a true 'in the woods' feeling, though you might hear distant traffic.
Yes, there are picnic areas available, including a spot on an island accessible via a bridge over a pond. It's a lovely place to relax and enjoy a meal amidst nature.
📸 📸 Photography
The Red Maple Boardwalk, scenic lake views, and areas with dense foliage are excellent for photography. The changing seasons, especially fall, also offer beautiful photographic opportunities.
Yes, the trails offer beautiful sunset views, especially from areas overlooking the lake. The golden hour light can create stunning photographic moments.
You can photograph various birds, insects, and potentially even alligators. The natural setting provides ample subjects for wildlife photographers.
Generally, personal photography is welcome. However, for commercial or professional shoots, it's advisable to check with the university for any specific guidelines or permits.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a softer, more appealing image.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
With several trail loops, you can choose a shorter, manageable walk for younger children or combine trails for a longer adventure. The picnic areas offer a great spot to rest and refuel. Remember to bring water and snacks, and keep an eye on little ones near water bodies.
🏃♀️ Runners and Fitness Enthusiasts
The flat terrain is ideal for building endurance, and the natural scenery provides a motivating and beautiful environment. While some boardwalks can be slippery, most of the trails are well-maintained and wide enough for comfortable running.
📸 Photographers and Nature Lovers
Capture the vibrant colors of the changing seasons, the intricate details of plants, or the serene moments of wildlife. The Red Maple Boardwalk provides unique angles, and the golden hour light is perfect for capturing the tranquil atmosphere.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails: A Network of Natural Beauty
One of the most accessible and visually appealing sections is the Red Maple Boardwalk, which is wheelchair accessible, making it a fantastic option for all visitors. This boardwalk winds through the natural landscape, offering a peaceful and immersive experience. For those looking for a longer trek, combining different loops can easily extend your hike, providing a good workout and a deeper connection with nature.
While the trails are generally flat with minimal elevation gain, some older boardwalk sections can become slippery, especially after rain. The newer decking is much improved, but caution is still advised. The presence of other visitors, including runners and walkers, contributes to a feeling of safety, though the proximity to city roads means you might occasionally hear traffic noise.
Wildlife Encounters and Natural Wonders
Beyond birds, the trails are also known for other wildlife sightings. Visitors have reported seeing alligators in the water bodies, so it's important to maintain a safe distance and admire them from afar. The natural surroundings also attract various insects and smaller creatures, adding to the biodiversity of the preserve.
For photographers and nature enthusiasts, these trails offer excellent opportunities for wildlife photography. The natural light, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, can enhance the beauty of your shots. Remember to be respectful of the wildlife and their habitat, ensuring your presence doesn't disturb them.
Photography Opportunities at UNF
Key spots for capturing memorable images include the Red Maple Boardwalk, which offers unique perspectives of the surrounding flora, and the scenic lake views that are particularly breathtaking during sunrise and sunset. The changing seasons also bring their own charm, with fall colors adding a vibrant palette to the scenery.
When planning your photo session, consider the golden hour – the period shortly after sunrise or before sunset – for the most flattering light. This time of day minimizes harsh shadows and creates a warm, inviting glow, perfect for capturing the tranquil beauty of the UNF Nature Trails.
Social
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