Cape Florida Trail at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park

The Cape Florida Trail at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park runs along the southern tip of Key Biscayne, at 1200 S Crandon Blvd, in Miami-Dade County, Florida. The park is about 25-30 minutes by car or rideshare from downtown Miami, reached over the Rickenbacker Causeway, where a toll applies. Entry is about $8 USD per vehicle ($4 USD for a single-occupant vehicle); the park is open from 8 a.m. to sundown and may close to new arrivals when full, so confirming conditions with the park is wise. No permit is needed for the trail. The route is about 1.5 miles (2.4 km) round trip from the parking area to the Cape Florida Lighthouse and back through coastal hammock and dune vegetation. The ground is flat, with under 10 ft of elevation change on the trail itself; the lighthouse climb adds 109 steps, about 95 ft (29 m), and is a separate activity. The surface is a mix of paved and sandy track, with partial shade from sea grape and other coastal trees and open sun near the beach. The lighthouse, built in 1825, is the oldest standing structure in Miami-Dade County, and the walk offers views over Biscayne Bay, the Atlantic and the Miami skyline. The trail takes 45-90 minutes depending on pace and stops. Turn-around choices include the beach, the lighthouse, or the bay-side boardwalk near the concession area. Restrooms, a cafe and drinking water are available near the parking area, but little is provided along the trail itself. Insect repellent is useful near the mangroves, and sun protection is important on exposed stretches.