You might not think Florida is a premier hiking state, but we’re here to prove otherwise. Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park is a natural wonderland filled with things to do and see and one of the best places to get outdoors and hike. The La Chua Trail is an out-and-back hiking trail that offers some of the best views in the park. All you need to do is hike to one of the best observation decks in Florida and enjoy!
Tucked away in Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park is a 2.9-mile out-and-back hike that is perfect for nature lovers.
Google Reviews Thomas Avery
The La Chua Trail is considered a relatively easy route with almost non-existent elevation gains and is kid-friendly, stroller-friendly, and wheelchair-friendly.
Google Review Thomas Avery
The trail is said to be in the flat-grade category, which means it’s 1% or less. However, all-terrain tires or motorized equipment may be needed.
Google Reviews Brian JW Kim
What makes this trail such a hidden gem is the fact that at the end of the trail, before heading back, sits an observation platform for people to climb up.
Google Reviews Kyle Beecher
The views from this platform are out-of-this-world, with hikers being able to see for miles over Alachua Lake.
Google Review Thomas Avery
Just keep an eye out while you’re on the trail. Some friends call this place home that may be nearby, or basking in the sunshine.
Google Reviews Wenbin Guo
On average, most hikers complete this trail in 50 minutes or less, but you should take your time. There is so much to see and take in. You’ll want to relish it all.
AllTrails Lance King
Enjoy a hike along the La Chua Trail in Florida, which leads you to platform views from the observation deck.
AllTrails Dominique Papa
Have you ever been to Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park before? How about a hike along the La Chua Trail? This is one of the best observation decks in Florida, hands down. If you want to know more about this hiking trail, including current weather conditions, check out the Florida State Parks website.
Google Reviews Thomas Avery
Google Review Thomas Avery
Google Reviews Brian JW Kim
Google Reviews Kyle Beecher
Google Reviews Wenbin Guo
AllTrails Lance King
AllTrails Dominique Papa
We have you covered if you need more convincing as to why you should head out to Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park. This is one of the only state parks in Florida to watch wild horses roam.
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Address: La Chua Trail, Gainesville, FL, USA
