There are many types of trails in Jacksonville: short, long, gravel, dirt, grass, pavement, marsh overlooks. Whether you are searching for a hidden gem or scouring the city for a popular, public trail, you have an array of options in Jax. There’s plenty of options for enjoying a nice jog and best the scenic views that Jacksonville has to offer. Note: All descriptions courtesy of locations and edited for clarity.

Cradle Creek Preserve
This trail is a short one — about one mile in length. If you are trying to squeeze in a quick morning run in Jacksonville Beach or just want to get the dogs out of the house for a bit, Cradle Creek is a great option. The trail is mostly dirt, with a few periodic points of boardwalk wood. There are also some overlooks to view the marshes of the Intracoastal Waterway and take a breather. Dawn – Dusk. Free. 900 S 15th St., Jacksonville Beach, FL; coj.net/departments/parks-and-recreation/recreation-and-community-programming/parks/cradle-creek-preserve.aspx 

Julington Durbin Creek Nature Preservez
Located on a peninsula formed at the merging point of Julington and Durbin creek, the Julington Durbin Creek Nature Preserve is gorgeous, with plenty of streaming waterways and beautiful marinas. To top it off, pedestrians and runners alike can enjoy the grass trails that range from floodplain marshes to sandhill and more. With periods of open water and long walkways for humans and pets, this is definitely one of the best parks for a scenic run, biking, kayaking or horseback riding. It is also great for anyone looking to stay out and explore for a while, as the longest trail is 6.1 miles roundtrip. Dawn – Dusk. Free. 13200 Bartram Park Blvd, Jacksonville, FL; timucuanparks.org/julington-durbin-creek-preserve

Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park
Aside from being the premier spot for surfers, Hanna Park is home to many astounding biking trails, camping grounds, and kayaking launch sites. There are multiple access points to reach the 1.5 mile stretch of beach, a 60-acre freshwater lake, and twenty miles of trails that pedestrians and mountain bikers can enjoy. Just be careful if you are out jogging because this park is well-known for lurking alligators. 8 a.m.- 6 p.m. $5 daily pass. 500 Wonderwood Dr, Jacksonville, FL; coj.net/departments/parks,-recreation-and-community-services/recreation-and-community-programming/kathryn-abbey-hanna-park.aspx

Timucuan Ecological and Historical Preserve
There are so many wonderful things about Timucuan; one of the best features is the hilliness of the trails. While all of Florida feels pretty flat most of the time, some of these trails curve up, down, and around, which leads to a much more fun run. There are also many trails to choose from, one of which ends at a scenic overlook, where you are able to see miles of marshy terrain. Timucuan comprises 46,000 acres of wetlands, waterways and other habitats. Parts of this park extend to the Atlantic Coast, as well, so there is a lot of variety. 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. Free. 12713 Ft. Caroline Rd., Jacksonville, FL; nps.gov/timu/index.htm // @timucuanparks

Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens
Neighboring the Timucuan Ecological Preserve is the Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens. Not only is this park perfect for a scenic stroll, but it serves as a great backdrop for dates and photoshoots. With a beautiful pond in the center and perfectly positioned greenery surrounding it, it feels like a secret oasis that many do not know of. It is often called “the hidden jewel.” There are many ongoing events held here, such as “Nature Journaling” on December 4th and “Dazzling Nights Fundraiser” from the present until January 9. The park is free but they suggest a $3 donation fee for visitors. The area covers 120 acres, with seven natural trails that route through 13 distinct ecosystems. 8 a.m.- 5 p.m. $3. 1445 Millcoe Rd., Jacksonville, FL; jacksonvillearboretum.org // @jacksonvillearboretum

UNF Nature Trails
Tucked away behind the University of North Florida, these beautiful nature trails, that have been protected for 35 years, cover over 500 acres of natural habitat. They make for excellent running pathways, particular the blue trail that forms a loop around a large pond in the center. Many visitors see turtles, alligators, water moccasins, armadillos, birds, and more, so be on the lookout for some Florida-native animals. Note: There are free parking spots for guests that only plan to stay for twenty minutes, but you will most likely need to purchase a daily parking pass for $5 at the kiosk on-site. 7 a.m.- 7 p.m. $5. 1 UNF Dr., Jacksonville, FL; https://www.unf.edu/recwell/ecoadventure/Trails // UNF_Nature_Trails