Southeast Paddling Trails
Explore the Loxahatchee River, one of only two designated wild and scenic rivers in Florida, and much more.
Southeast Paddling Trails Map
Martin County Blueways
The Indian River Lagoon and St. Lucie River Paddling Trails make up the Martin County Blueway system , spanning 37.7 miles. There is also a 2.6 mile spur trail that goes through St. Lucie Inlet State Park.
Map of the Martin County Blueway System.
Loxahatchee River
The lush, twisting Loxahatchee River is worthy of its status as Florida’s first National Wild and Scenic River. The coffee-colored stream meanders through centuries-old cypress trees and an abundance of palm trees that give the upper section a photogenic quality.
Trapper Nelson’s cabin is a point of interest near the trail’s terminus in Jonathan Dickinson State Park . Nelson was an intriguing and colorful fur trapper who came to the area in the 1930s and lived along the banks of the Loxahatchee.
Map of the 8.5-mile Loxahatchee River Paddling Trail.
Jupiter Waterway Trail
The Jupiter Waterway Trail is a series of trails that connect the Loxahatchee River, Intracoastal Waterway and Jupiter Inlet. These legs and off-shoots create a natural playground of eco-tourism activities, from kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding to snorkeling, boating, fishing, and diving. Pick one of several routes. Total mileage is 39 miles.
Buster Island Loop
Paddlers encircle Buster Island, nestled between vast lakes that bracket Lake Kissimmee State Park . The 11-mile paddling loop meanders through the Zipperer Canal, Lake Rosalie, Rosalie Creek, Tiger Lake, Tiger Creek and Lake Kissimmee before returning to the boat marina. Pine flatwoods, oak hammocks and freshwater marsh burst forth in the fall and spring with an abundance of wildflowers that splash vibrant colors along the waterways. The diverse habitat, part of the Everglades headwaters, offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
During the Civil War, the area was used for raising cattle that were shipped to the Confederate Army or traded with Cuba for supplies. After the war, cattle became the main industry and this continues to the present day. Reenactors in the park operate a traditional 1876-era "cow camp" for visitors.
Map of the Buster Island Loop Paddling Trail.
Kissimmee River Blueway
Now that a multi-year restoration effort of the Kissimmee River has been completed, this historic waterway is being discovered by paddlers. The Kissimmee River Blueway is open for exploration!
Nine primitive campsites, established by the South Florida Water Management District with volunteer help, can be reserved for use.
Map of the Kissimmee River Blueway. Check out the Kissimmee River Story Map for more information.
Wilton Manors Middle River
This 7-mile loop originates at the lntracoastal Waterway in Wilton Manors near Fort Lauderdale. The river provides a wealth of entertainment, recreational, environmental, economic, and educational opportunities. Recreation uses include kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboard, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The waterways are home to a vast array of birds, mammals, and aquatic life.
Whiskey Creek
Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park in southeast Florida is bordered by the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean, with the Whiskey Creek Paddling Trail running through its center. The creek is a marine estuary lined with sea grapes and mangroves, an important habitat for marine species and bird rookeries. This park is a site on the Great Florida Birding Trail, so bring a camera and binoculars to watch for wildlife at a safe distance.
Map of the Whiskey Creek Paddling Trail.
