There are miles of hiking opportunities throughout the Gulf Islands National Seashore. In the Florida District there are over 35 miles of designated trails and in the Mississippi District at Davis Bayou there are 2 miles of trails. In addition you can walk miles on the beautiful white sandy beaches. Guided trails help hikers discover the park's natural resources.

Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Take a picnic, your camera, binoculars or field guides to identify the numerous plants and animals. Closed signs are posted for dune preservation, restoration of the area or for nesting shorebirds. There are wonderful scenic views for sketching or painting.

Safety Tips When Hiking

For your safety be prepared for rain and thunderstorms. If caught in an approaching lightning storm, lie flat in low-lying dunes. Also insects are more a problem in the summer then in the winter but always be prepared with a good insect repellent. The sun is intense so use sunscreen, wear protective clothing and sunglasses.