Just minutes from downtown Miami, this loop offers spectacular views of Biscayne Bay from atop the historic 1825 Cape Florida Lighthouse, as well as tropical mangrove wetlands and opportunities for birding. The area is home to abundant wildlife including iguanas, butterflies and numerous migrant bird species. This is a perfect destination for families looking to enjoy a short hike, picnicking, fishing or the sandy beaches of Key Biscayne.

This has to be the most fun place in Miami! Developed on the site of a former 275-acre horse track in 1979, Tropical Park is a favored destination for cyclists, walkers and runners and offers numerous recreational and community programs for youth and families. The park also offers designated areas for fishing, basketball, boxing, baseball and soccer in addition to running and cycling pathways. This paved loop circles the park and a portion of gorgeous Lake Patricia.

Iguana lovers unite. This serene neighborhood path along the Black Creek Canal hosts tons of iguanas and wildlife enjoying the sunny lawns. The Black Creek Trail runs from the Black Point Marina and Park to the Larry and Penny Thompson Park—there is parking on both ends. Visitors can access Zoo Miami and additional hiking and biking trails via a connector path. A great trail for those looking for a leisurely bike ride or morning walk away from busy roads.

For those looking for a longer route to explore, the South Dade Rail Trail (SDRT) follows the old Florida East Coast Railway corridor from Kendall to Homestead in south Florida. Trail enthusiasts can enjoy walking, jogging, bicycling, inline skating and other non-motorized recreational activities year-round along this paved route. As always, bring plenty of water and sunscreen for your travels as the majority of the path is without shade.

Less than an hour drive from downtown Miami, this flat, paved road is the perfect route to bicycle, walk or take the paid tram ride to see beautiful scenery, alligators, deer, turtles, herons and a host of other plants and animals. An observation tower located halfway around the loop provides incredible views into the sawgrass marsh and tree islands. Learn about the Everglades and numerous rare and endangered species.

Looking for the perfect post-brunch activity? How about visiting the largest collection of tropical bamboo in the world or the only cannonball tree in the United States? Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is an 83-acre wonderland featuring rare tropical plants, palms, flowering trees and vines. Located in Coral Gables, this research facility and museum works to preserve biodiversity and educate future generations on the importance of conservation.

This short hike in the Highland Lakes neighborhood follows a paved trail around a picturesque pond and is a popular destination for birdwatching. Kids and dogs will enjoy the birds, iguanas, crabs and other Florida wildlife in this relaxing park.

Located in Biscayne National Park,the scenic Jetty Trail is a short and easy walk along a mangrove-lined shore that leads to the Colonial Bird Protection Area. Half of the trail is a boardwalk and the other is a smooth, gravel/sand surface. Biscayne protects a rare combination of aquamarine waters and coral reefs and is a popular destination for boaters, snorkeling and wildlife watching.