BIG CYPRESS HIKING TRAILS
There are very few traditional hiking trails in Big Cypress National Preserve. Most are what are known as Primary Trails: dirt roads that run through the backcountry and are open to vehicles, bikers, and hikers. There are over two hundred miles of such trails. In the wet season (summer) the Primary Trails are mainly used by swamp buggies and ATVs, but hikers are welcome to trudge through the swamp waters if so inclined (biking would not be possible). Once the roads dry out in the winter, anyone can travel on them, though they may still be muddy. For more information, see the Backcountry web page.
Only five trails are for hikers only, and three of these are former backcountry roads. I hiked all or part of every one of these trails. All hikes were done in February during the height of the dry season (November through April). During the wet season most of the trails will be underwater, maybe knee to waist deep.
Permits are no longer required to hike or bike in the backcountry of Big Cypress National Preserve. However, be sure to let somebody know of your plans and who to notify (a park Ranger) should you not return as scheduled.
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Last updated on July 13, 2026
