Black Bear Wilderness Area Trail, Black Bear Wilderness, Florida

ACTIVITIES: Hiking, camping LENGTH OF HIKE: 2 miles or 7 miles OUT AND BACK OR LOOP: Loop DIFFICULTY OF TERRAIN: Moderate ELEVATION GAIN: 45 feet PARKING FEE/PASS: No TOILETS: No CHANGING TABLE: No NURSING BENCHES: Yes DOGS ALLOWED: Yes BIKES/HORSES/MOTORS ON TRAIL: No CELL RECEPTION: Yes DRINKING WATER AVAILABLE: No POTENTIAL CHILD OR BABY HAZARDS: Ticks, poison oak, stinging nettles, lots of roots and uneven ground, possible alligator presence GEAR SUGGESTIONS: Hiking poles If you are looking for a hike that feels like a  real hiking boot–wearing adventure, check out the Black Bear Wilderness, a 1,600-acre reserve in northwest Seminole County that features a variety of wetland habitats within the floodplain of the St. Johns River. Check out the 2- or 7-mile version of the Black Bear Wilderness Loop Trail, much of which runs along the river. The park is home to animals like the white-tailed deer, barred owls, coyotes, swallowtailed kite, American alligators, and river otters. And if you are quiet, you might even spot the park’s namesake: a Florida black bear. Keep an eye out for musk turtles, which might cross your path. You might even catch a whiff of them before you see them because these turtles will release a foul musky odor from scent glands on the edge of their shell if they feel threatened or nervous. Being that it’s such a large piece of land and close to other public lands, this is one of the most diverse parks you will find in Florida and can feel more like North Carolina than the typical swamplands of Florida. This is not to say you won’t find the typical Florida fauna and flora, but expect trees and a combination of boardwalk and more of a trail-like feel. The site is located on a floodplain of the St. Johns River, so during the rainy season, this park might be closed due to flooding. Also, hurricanes have been known to affect the park for periods of time, so make sure to check on whether or not it’s open. Crystal Osborn suggests a combo of carrying and letting kids walk, but remind your little ones not to get too far ahead (there are alligators) and that there are lots of tripping hazards with many exposed roots on the trail. This is a very kid-friendly park, though, because there is about a mile of boardwalks (14 boardwalks traverse the terrain) for kids to run on if they are new little walkers and need a stable surface to negotiate the trail. There is even one floating boardwalk that is fun to venture on. You can choose to do the 7-mile loop and stop at the primitive campground, where you will find a concession stand to grab a quick snack. Speaking of camping, you can opt to stay overnight and make a little more of an adventure out of this park. Camping is reported to be a little crowded, so expect this to have more of a “parking lot” backcountry type of feel with tents close together instead of a remote experience. A few things to be aware of: bugs and snakes. They are plentiful, so bring lots of spray and watch where children are walking. The park is home to pygmy rattlers and cottonmouths, both of which are venomous. Snakes are nocturnal, though, so chances are you won’t see them. But keep in mind they are present on the trails, as they most likely hide in holes and under rocks. WHY IT’S A FAVORITE “Black Bear Wilderness Area is very different from your normal Florida hiking trails. With the more intense terrain and different habitats you walk through, it makes for an enjoyable hike for the whole family. Also, it’s a good length. Completing the 7-mile loop is a wonderful workout but not too long that you overexert yourself for a single day hike.” —CRYSTAL OSBORN INSIDER’S TIP The best time to visit is winter because it will be nice and cool. Also, depending on the GPS in your vehicle, it might take you down a dirt road and you might think you’re lost. Keep going! You’re not lost. It’ll be on your right as you approach.