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Fort Braden Hiking Trail

(850)-681 5950

Explore a range of different ecosystems and enjoy the stunning views of Lake Talquin on the 1,242-acre Fort Braden tract. The three hiking trail loops are about 3 miles in length each, and are moderately strenuous, with steep inclines and narrow footing in some areas. Primitive campsites are available for both individual and group camping (permit required). Facilities include picnic pavilions and a trailhead restroom.

The trail system includes the Central, East, and West Loops, all of which qualify for the Florida State Forests Trailwalker program. The three hiking loops provide a variety of options, with the East Loop being the shortest walk. Trails wind through a shady hardwood forest of southern magnolia, white oak, American holly, and beech along sloping clay hills, where small but vigorous streams cascade downhill towards Lake Talquin.

The open understory makes it easy to see wildlife, especially deer, and views of the lake long before the trail actually approaches it. The trail junctions are well marked with signs, and bright pink paint adorns footpath perils such as nasty roots. Two primitive campsites offer h great views of Lake Talquin, each with fire rings and logs for sitting. Most of the hardwood forest is southern magnolia, so be sure to visit in late May or June, when the fragrance of magnolia blossoms fills the air. In late April, blueberry bushes drip with fruit.


Featured Uses: Walking, jogging, bicycling, nature watching, camping and dog friendly.

Access: from Tallahassee: Go west 8.7 miles on Highway 20 from Capital Circle. Entrance road will be on the right.

Amenities: Hiking trails, campsites, lake views, wildlife viewing, picnic pavilions, and restrooms.

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ACTIVITIES
Biking
Hiking
SURFACE
Un-paved
LEVEL
Easy

Explore a range of different ecosystems and enjoy the stunning views of Lake Talquin on the 1,242-acre Fort Braden tract. The three hiking trail loops are about 3 miles in length each, and are moderately strenuous, with steep inclines and narrow footing in some areas. Primitive campsites are available for both individual and group camping (permit required). Facilities include picnic pavilions and a trailhead restroom.

The trail system includes the Central, East, and West Loops, all of which qualify for the Florida State Forests Trailwalker program. The three hiking loops provide a variety of options, with the East Loop being the shortest walk. Trails wind through a shady hardwood forest of southern magnolia, white oak, American holly, and beech along sloping clay hills, where small but vigorous streams cascade downhill towards Lake Talquin.

The open understory makes it easy to see wildlife, especially deer, and views of the lake long before the trail actually approaches it. The trail junctions are well marked with signs, and bright pink paint adorns footpath perils such as nasty roots. Two primitive campsites offer h great views of Lake Talquin, each with fire rings and logs for sitting. Most of the hardwood forest is southern magnolia, so be sure to visit in late May or June, when the fragrance of magnolia blossoms fills the air. In late April, blueberry bushes drip with fruit.


Featured Uses: Walking, jogging, bicycling, nature watching, camping and dog friendly.

Access: from Tallahassee: Go west 8.7 miles on Highway 20 from Capital Circle. Entrance road will be on the right.

Amenities: Hiking trails, campsites, lake views, wildlife viewing, picnic pavilions, and restrooms.

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