Include These Great Hikes on Your Visit to Marco Island

While it might be tempting to spend your entire getaway relaxing inside your Marco Island vacation rentals, you should plan for some time out in nature while you’re in town! Taking a hike with your family and friends is a great budget-friendly that the whole group can get in on, while also allowing you to see some stunning wildlife and enjoy the beautiful weather of Marco Island.

Here are a few of the most popular hikes on Marco Island that you can embark on!

Enjoy These Marco Island Trails

The Cypress Dome Trail

The Cypress Dome Trails (sometimes also called Gate 5) offer 6 miles of hiking for you to experience. Since the premises are dog-friendly, the entire family can come along! You’ll pass by two cypress domes, stunning Pine Flatwoods, and breathtaking oak hammocks. Enter at 3980 Corkscrew Road in Immokalee. The trails are free to enter and are open from an hour before sunrise to an hour after sunset.

Bird Rookery Swamp Trail

Along the Bird Rookery Swamp Trail, you’ll find 12 miles of biking and hiking trails, as well as a 1,500-foot boardwalk for some immaculate nature viewing. Birdwatching is a popular hobby here, but you can also spot wildlife like Florida panthers, white-tailed deer, otters, and more. Enter at 1295 Shady Hollow Boulevard in Naples. The trails are free to enter and are open from an hour before sunrise to an hour after sunset.

Caracara Prairie Preserve Trails

Caracara Prairie Preserve Trails are ideal for animal lovers. They are adjacent to the Cypress Dome Trails, so it’s easy to do them both on the same trip. As you hike the 3 miles of trail, be sure to look out for caracaras (of course!), wild turkeys, sandhill cranes, gopher tortoises, and more! Keep in mind that dogs aren’t allowed on these trails. The Preserve is located at 2320 Corkscrew Road and is open daily from 6:30 a.m. until 8 p.m.

Briggs Boardwalk

Briggs Boardwalk is designated as a Great Florida Birding Trail site, meaning bird watchers will feel right at home here! You’ll hike through seven unique habitats as you wander through the self-directed nature trail. The Boardwalk is open year-round from dawn until dusk and costs no admission fee. 

Clam Pass Trail

Finally, Clam Pass in Naples is a great place to explore through a free guided walk with an experienced naturalist. You’ll learn all about the habitats and wildlife you’re seeing, including prominent species like the yellow-crowned night heron or the pileated woodpecker. Nature walks are held every day except Sunday at 9 a.m.

What to Bring

No matter which of these outdoor activities in Marco Island you want to experience, there are a few key things you’ll probably want to bring with you. First and foremost, protect yourself from the sun with a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Even if it’s cloudy on the day you choose to hike, don’t underestimate how easy it can be to get a sunburn! You’ll also want to bring plenty of water and maybe a light snack like a granola bar or trail mix. Finally, be sure to wear sturdy yet comfortable walking shoes so you can navigate the trails with confidence.