Hiking in Lakewood Ranch

The heart of hiking in Lakewood Ranch is the massive, interconnected trail network that links neighborhoods, parks, and community centers. These trails often run alongside landscaped boulevards and glistening lakes, providing a safe, paved surface for walkers, runners, and cyclists.

Best For: Long-distance runners and families with strollers. It creates opportunities to plan longer routes by combining multiple neighborhood loops without ever needing a car.

For a more organic experience, Heron’s Nest Nature Park highlights Florida’s native environment. The trails here move through wetlands and lakefront areas, offering a quieter atmosphere distinct from the manicured neighborhood parks.

Best For: Wildlife observation. The benches along the lake are perfect for spotting herons, egrets, and turtles in their natural habitat.

Bob Gardner Community Park

LWR Boulevard | Mixed Terrain

This linear park offers a mile of paved and unpaved trails winding through open fields and shaded wetland preserves. It integrates recreational spaces (like a disc golf course) with nature trails, making it ideal for casual hikers who want variety.

Greenbrook Adventure Park

Greenbrook Village | Family Friendly

Greenbrook Adventure Park features wide paths that loop around open green areas and wooded zones. It connects directly to the larger trail system, allowing residents in Greenbrook to extend their walks for miles.

The Celery Fields

Sarasota | Elevation & Views

Just south of Lakewood Ranch, Celery Fields is famous for its large hill—a rarity in Florida! Hikers can climb to the top for panoramic views of the entire county. It is also the region's premier birdwatching destination.

Rothenbach Park

Bee Ridge Rd | Paved Loops

Built on a former landfill, this park is a testament to environmental recovery. It offers miles of wide, paved loops through oak hammocks. The consistent surface makes it the top choice for cyclists and those looking for a predictable 3-mile or 5-mile loop.

Myakka River State Park

State Park | Rugged Wilderness

For a true wilderness excursion, head east to Myakka River State Park. With 39 miles of hiking trails through dry prairies and wetlands, this is where you go to disconnect. The Deep Hole trail offers a chance to see dozens of alligators.

💡 Pro Tip for Residents

Many of Lakewood Ranch's newest villages, like Waterside, are built specifically around lakefront trail systems. Check the community map before buying to see which homes have direct trail access!