Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park

Maritime forest at Hanna Park

While combing the Jacksonville area for hikes, I was surprised to find the vast number of small parks with trails and the diversity of habitats presented throughout the region. Hanna Park, as it is best known, is one of the region’s largest, with recreational opportunities ranging from camping and fishing to mountain biking and surfing. Constructed by the North Florida Trailblazers Chapter of the Florida Trail Association, the 2.7-mile hiking loop is a gorgeous way to get to know maritime habitats.

H is for Hiking

When you enter the park, follow the entrance road to the very end. Park by the sign that says “Trail G,” near parking areas 10-11, and look for the orange blaze on the left. The blaze on the right marks your return route. You immediately plunge into the cool shade of a maritime hammock, paralleling one of the many old ditches that crisscross the park. Pignut hickory and red mulberry trees shade the footpath. To distinguish the hiking trail from the biking trail (since they often draw close together), the park stenciled the letter “H” on many of the trees. It can be a little confusing to follow the correct footpath because of the multiplicity of trails, so watch for that “H” at every decision point. Pay attention to the forks in the trail—and choose wisely!