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Five Historic Hikes in Pensacola
History, beaches and a hike in the Florida sunshine, is that too much to ask? Absolutely not! Experience these 5 historic hikes in the Pensacola Bay Area.
One of the great things about a getaway to the Pensacola Bay Area is you get the best of both worlds: a historic destination with natural scenic beauty, perfect for an outdoor adventure. For centuries people have been exploring the Pensacola Bay Area, from Native Americans before the historical era to the moment Tristan de Luna first hiked its shores. Today you and your family can spend the day exploring historic forts, hiking on the site of a 19th-century water-powered industrial complex, walk around a charming downtown area all while discovering the history of the colonial period.
Want help planning an outdoor hike? Here are five ideas to get outdoors and go for a hike in the Pensacola Bay area.
1. The Florida National Scenic Trail in Fort Pickens
The trailhead of the westernmost part of the Florida National Scenic Trail is located in Fort Pickens, just outside the main fort area. The walk from the trailhead to Battery Worth is an easy walk just under one mile. The trail runs alongside salt marshes and small canals where you'll enjoy viewing turtles and other wildlife. It's here that Confederate and Union soldiers clashed as the Confederates made an attempt to retake this fortress.
2. Americas First Settlement Trail
The Americas First Settlement Trail comprises 20 designated points and over 70 places of interest, all intricately intertwined with the essence of Downtown Pensacola's offerings. Pensacola holds the distinction of being the initial European settlement in the eventual United States, established in 1559 by Spanish Conquistador Don Tristan de Luna, whose expedition led to a settlement that endured until its devastation by a hurricane in 1561.
The journey commences at Plaza Ferdinand, a park located at the intersection of Zaragosa and Palafox streets. It was at this spot that future President Andrew Jackson formally accepted Florida on behalf of the United States from Spain. The trail's initial segments extend along Zaragosa Street, heading eastward. These include notable locations such as the site of Fort San Miguel, constructed by the Spanish in 1756, alongside historically significant public edifices and businesses.
3. Colonial Archaeological Trail
The Colonial Archaeological Trail is a fascinating walking tour of history from the period of 1752-1821. You can access the trail at the Pensacola Museum of History located in beautiful downtown Pensacola. On the walk, you'll learn about the 18th-century colonization of Pensacola. The trail has interpretive signs to learn about the different sites as you explore the downtown Pensacola and the Historic Pensacola Village. While exploring you may enjoy getting coffee at a local coffee shop or grabbing a bite to eat at a nearby cafe.
4. Pensacola Maritime Trail
Our natural deepwater bay was an invitation to early explorers and was the reason Pensacola has a rich maritime history. The Pensacola Maritime Trail is located in Downtown Pensacola along Pensacola Bay. The walking tour is made up of ten signs that discuss everything from the Native Americans, Spanish Exploration, 18th Century Pensacola and much more.
5. Arcadia Mill
Arcadia Mill is a unique archaeological site that represents a water-powered industrial complex. The site includes a small museum, a discovery pavilion, elevated boardwalk with interpretive signs and nature trails. Not only will you enjoy the outdoors you'll also take a stroll through 200 years of history.
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