Guided Day Hike Through Florida Backcountry: Wetlands & Forests

Wetlands to tropical forest hike with guide sharing local plants and animals insights

A guided backcountry day hike in West Palm Beach takes you through wetlands, prairies, tropical forests, sandy trails and streams over 4 to 5 hours, with shuttle transport to the trailhead, a guide in English or Spanish, water drops staged throughout, and a dehydrated backpacking meal included. The hike ends at a local spot or park depending on weather. Live location tracking is provided for safety, and the guide carries extra water and a filter.

The experience

You'll meet at a starting location and get a shuttle ride to the trailhead, with a stop at a nearby cafe or shop on the way so you can grab anything you need before heading into the backcountry. The trek itself moves through wetlands, prairies, tropical forests, sandy trails, streams and scenic vistas: terrain that shifts as the day goes on. Your guide explains the local nature as you walk: the plants that thrive in each zone, the animals you might spot, and how the ecosystems fit together across Florida's wild interior.

The hike runs 4 to 5 hours and starts early to beat the heat. Water drops are staged along the route, and your guide carries additional water and a water filter in case you need it. You'll get a dehydrated backpacking meal snack to fuel the day. Before you leave, the guide sends you a link so you or anyone you choose can track your location in real time on their phone: a safety measure built into every trek.

The hike ends at either another local hotspot or a different park depending on the weather that day and what the guide decides works best. All fees and taxes are included in the price.

What’s included

• Shuttle transport from the starting location to the trailhead.
• a guide in English or Spanish.
• water drops staged throughout the hike.
• extra water and water filter carried by the guide.
• one dehydrated backpacking meal snack.
• all fees and taxes.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 08:00

Book up to2d before

AgesAdult (18 and older) · Child (1 to 17 years): free

GroupUp to 50

Live guideEnglish and Spanish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.Operator's directions: “Park & Meet at this location.”

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

ConfirmationConfirmation within 48h

Prices and times updated 6 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical levelPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Ryan

Is this one for you?The shuttle pickup from a set starting location means you don't need a car or a ride to get to the trailhead, so this works whether you're staying in West Palm Beach without a vehicle or just prefer not to drive before a backcountry trek.

Traveler reviews

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Top questions

What languages is the guide in?

Live guide in English and Spanish.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (1 to 17 years): free.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What kind of terrain will I actually walk through on this hike?

The trek moves through wetlands, prairies, tropical forests, sandy trails, streams, scenic vistas and backcountry roads: a mix of Florida's different landscapes in a single day.

How does the water situation work during a 4 to 5-hour hike in Florida heat?

Water drops are staged at points along the route, your guide carries extra water and a water filter, and the hike starts early in the day to avoid the hottest hours.

Do I need to arrange my own transportation to the trailhead?

A shuttle picks you up at the starting location and drives you to the trailhead, so you don't need a car. Public transportation options are also available nearby if you prefer.

What does the guide explain while we're hiking?

The guide shows you and explains the local plants, animals and ecosystems you encounter: how they fit into the different zones you're walking through.

Is there a safety system in place if something goes wrong?

Before departure, the guide provides a link that lets you or anyone you send it to view your live location in real time on their phone.