Discovering the Southwood Nature Trail: A Hidden Gem in Tallahassee

If you’re looking for a peaceful walk, a slice of wildlife, and a quick getaway from the bustle of city life, the Southwood Nature Trail in Tallahassee, Florida, delivers just that. The trail sits within the Southwood community. This trail surprised me not just with its quiet charm but with the variety of flora and fauna packed into less than a mile of path.

I took a lovely walk on the weekend around the Southwood Nature Trail in Tallahassee, FL. I saw floating turtles, 25 geese having a family reunion with barbecue cookout, people fishing, a lady with 3 dogs – one which was sitting in a stroller (love that cause I might do that too for Roy 🐶), sunsets, yes multiples, playgrounds with a chair swing, a waterpark with a slide, swings, 6-person golf carts riding in the street as they were on their way to the country club for dinner, velvety soft grass fields, beautiful homes, and a “Do not feed alligator sign.” Just Wonderful!

What the Trail Has to Offer

The Southwood Nature Trail is a paved loop of about 0.7 miles, making it accessible to nearly everyone — walkers, runners, and even strollers. It winds through a shady pine flatwoods ecosystem, with interpretive signs along the way identifying native plants and animals. One of the first things I noticed was how well-maintained and clean the trail was, making it welcoming for all ages.

At the entrance, a large placard displayed some of the wildlife you might spot, including gopher tortoises, red-shouldered hawks, rabbits, and even deer. (Insert your photo of the placard here — it’s a great reference for visitors!) Throughout my walk, I saw a pair of hawks circling above and spotted a rabbit darting across the underbrush — a reminder that even a small green space like this can support diverse life.

One of my favorite features was the boardwalk section that cuts through a wetland area. Here, the smell of damp earth and the sound of frogs and insects filled the air. The trail also offers benches along the way, perfect for just sitting and listening.

Here is a map of the trail to help you plan your visit. You can also check out Visit Tallahassee for more nearby trails if you’re feeling adventurous after.

My Experience

What struck me most during my visit was how serene it felt despite being so close to homes and streets. The shade from towering pines and oaks kept the path cool, and the birdsong drowned out most of the city noise. Even though the trail is short, I took my time, stopping to read each interpretive sign and snap photos of the native wildflowers along the path. I will be picnicking here this weekend!

While I didn’t see a gopher tortoise this time (they’re masters at hiding), I did see plenty of burrows along the sides of the trail — a clear sign they’re there. It reminded me how important it is to stay on the path, as these animals and their homes are protected. I’ve attached the link and PDF of a trail Guide showing all the local wildlife for your educational pleasures!

It’s also worth noting that the trail is open from dawn to dusk and has ample parking nearby, making it easy to fit a visit into your day. Dogs are welcome too — as long as they’re leashed. But I brought my dog so he can be off-leash just as long as I didn’t see anyone else. There is plenty of space for him to run around and not get caught off guard by any other people who may be walking around.

Why You Should Visit

Whether you’re a local looking for a quick nature fix or a visitor exploring Tallahassee’s outdoor offerings, the Southwood Nature Trail is worth your time. It’s free, accessible, and provides an excellent example of Florida’s natural beauty on a small scale.

Plus, walking this trail is a great way to connect with the local ecosystem and maybe even spark some curiosity about conservation. According to Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, green spaces like this are critical for maintaining healthy habitats for both wildlife and people. The trail covers a beautiful greenspace as seen in Google Maps.

Share Your Thoughts!

Have you walked the Southwood Nature Trail? Did you see a gopher tortoise or something unexpected? I’d love to hear about your experience! Leave a comment below with your favorite memory, your best wildlife photo, or even suggestions for other trails I should explore next.

Call to Action

If you’re ready to get outside and reconnect with nature, grab your walking shoes and head over to the Southwood Nature Trail today. Don’t forget your camera — and please respect the wildlife by staying on the path and carrying out whatever you bring in.

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