Hike the UNF wildlife sanctuary, north Florida’s hidden gem, moderate hike.

🌿 Hike the UNF Wildlife Sanctuary – Goldenrod Trail UNF Wildlife Sanctuary along the Goldenrod Trail. This is one of Jacksonville’s hidden natural gems — a peaceful woodland escape just minutes from town. Expect winding paths through pine flatwoods, shaded boardwalks, and a few small elevation changes that make it a fun, moderate-level hike. Join us for a refreshing and scenic hike through the UNF Wildlife Sanctuary, one of Jacksonville’s best-kept natural treasures! This adventure combines the Goldenrod Trail, the Big Cypress Trail, and the Red Maple Boardwalk, offering a little bit of everything — shady pine flatwoods, raised boardwalks through wetlands, and peaceful cypress swamps alive with wildlife.

🗓 Date & Time: 10 am dec 21

No dogs are not allowed on the trails

📍 Location: UNF Wildlife Sanctuary – 1 UNF Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32224
(Park in Lot 100 near the nature trails entrance)
🚶‍♀️ Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (approx. 2.5 to 3 miles round trip)
⏱ Duration: About 1.5 to 2 hours
🐿 What to Bring:
• Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
• Water and bug spray
• Hat/sunscreen
• Optional: camera or binoculars for wildlife spotting

We’ll take our time to enjoy nature, snap photos, and maybe spot some turtles, birds, or deer along the way. Afterwards, those interested can grab a bite or coffee nearby.

🎈

Let’s enjoy some fresh air , some great company, and a bit of outdoor adventure together!

Directions (from Jacksonville city center)

1. Head southeast on Atlantic Blvd (FL-10) toward the university area.
2. Turn right onto UNF Drive (this will curve and serve as the main road onto campus).
3. Continue on UNF Drive until you approach the campus inner loop. Look for signs for “Parking Services / Lot 100 / Wildlife Sanctuary”.
4. When you see the sign for Building 52 (Parking Services) and Lot 100, take the turn toward the west‐side parking lots.
5. The “West Entrance” to Parking Services is on the west façade of Building 52. Pull into the driveway just before the lot and park in Lot 100 (visitor or designated trailhead parking) if you’re there for the sanctuary.
6. From the parking area, follow the trail‐signs toward the Wildlife Sanctuary entrance/boardwalk area. The trailhead for the Goldenrod Trail and related boardwalks is only a short walk from the parking lot.