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Hike Little Manatee River Loop

Wimauma, Florida

5.0/5
based on 1 reviews

Details

Distance

6.5 miles

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Danielle Steele

This 6.5 mile trail flows through endless hammocks, running along the Little Manatee River at about the half-way mark. You can lessen your hike with a cross-through trail but the full hike is worth the effort!

This 6.5 mile trailhead is actually located outside the main entrance, just north of the river off of US 301 S.  The park charges a $4 entrance fee and it is recommended that you enter the main park to use restrooms and/or refill water bottles as those facilities are nonexistent at the outside-the-park trailhead. 

As you start the trail, if looking to complete the whole 6.5 miles, one is best to just keep right the whole way.  The whole trail is very well marked and maintained.  This hike takes you through numerous natural landscapes such as riverine hammocks, pine forests, and open prairies.  The trail is mostly shaded and absolutely beautiful!

If interested in primitive camping, there is a campsite about 2.5 miles in and requires a reservation.  It can most definitely accommodate a larger group and comes equipped with a picnic table, dedicated fireplace and two benches. 

Like most of Florida, the terrain is flat but there are bluffs that line the river and allow for several look out points along the river.  It felt like hills in Florida!

Overall, a wonderful hike and definitely worth the trip! 

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Features

Camping
Photography
Backpacking
Hiking
Bathrooms
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Forest
Groups
Picnic Area
River
Scenic
Wildlife

Reviews

Great place for the kids and dogs. Very adventure-rest and long. We saw a wild boar and three armadillos. And a ton of birds.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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VISIT FLORIDA, serves as Florida's official source for travel planning. What can be discovered beyond Florida’s 825 miles of beaches? How about 320 freshwater springs, 175 state parks, infinite mangrove tunnels and hidden caverns. Let your adventure begin. Follow Your Sunshine.

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