Jacksonville is the largest city as measured by area, in the continental United States. It is also the most populous town in Florida, with a population of over 1.25 million residents. Being a city on the Atlantic coast and surrounded by much outback, there are many outside sports in Jacksonville to take a role in. Particularly popular are water sports, thanks to Jacksonville’s close proximity to the ocean and the coast. Florida is home to several different state and countrywide parks and animal life hideaways, and so it is very accessible to go and visit for naturalists of every age group and abilities. Thanks to the high amount of natural areas and diversified habitats, Florida is amongst the most biologically various states in the country. Outdoor fans will enjoy the wildlife and outback. This article is going to review some of the most well-liked outdoor sports in Jacksonville.
Kayaking in Jacksonville
Water-based sports are some of the most well liked out of doors sports in Jacksonville. Kayaking is especially popular, as there are many companies that lease kayaks of all kinds at cost-effective rates. There are numerous lovely coastal and inland marine areas to explore, with countless miles of mangroves, marshes, wetlands, and beaches to paddle along. Canoeing is physically rewarding, while giving the boater unbeatable views of Florida’s various wildlife, for example waterfowl, and aquatic animals like mammals, dolphins, fish and stingrays. Canoeing is also popular among out of doors athletes thanks to the various different fishing prospects.
Biking in Jacksonville
Jacksonville has many devoted bike riders and mountain bike riders, thanks to the many intensive bike trails developed by the city of Jacksonville. The North Florida Bike Club has a well organised member base who plan group bike rides of all types. They also organise competitions and training events, as well as touring events, and all members receive their monthly newsletter. Their annual Royal Palm Classic bike race organizes 100/62/30/15 mile marked routes through and round the town. The popular 14.5 mile long Jacksonville-Baldwin Trail is found only a short ride from busy downtown Jacksonville. No matter if you prefer road biking or wilderness biking, there are plenty of places and folks to interact with biking in Jacksonville.
Hiking Trails in Jacksonville
Hiking is another preferred outdoor activity in the Jacksonville area, and with sound reason, as it is another well supported outside activity. There are many hiking trails inside a short distance from the bigger Jacksonville area, in natural habitats like stream plains, coastal marshes, and through state forests. There are also hikes through historical Confederate areas. Hiking is an excellent opportunity to come into closer contact with some of Florida’s epitomous wildlife: alligators, great egrets, sort of red egrets, glossy ibis, roseate spoonbills, bald eagles, bottlenose dolphins, and if you are lucky, maybe even a wild manatee sighting.
Josiah Gingerman has had an interest in Jacksonville sports for many years. He has written op-eds and editorial pieces for many online publications. For full information about hiking trails in Jacksonville please visit his site.