Trails for everyone to get outside and enjoy nature await at the University of West Florida. 

Located around the University of West Florida, the campus hosts a variety of nature trails for hiking and biking. You have the Edward Ball Nature Trail, west campus trails, main campus trails, LEAD trail, and cross-country trails. The Edward Ball Nature Trail is located behind Crosby Hall (Bldg. 10) and Bldg. 11. This half-mile boardwalk meanders through Thompson's Bayou over a hardwood swamp that is home to mammals, birds, fish and reptiles, including an occasional American alligator (Alligator mississipiensis). You may spot a variety of songbirds and waterfowl at this Great Florida Birding Trail site established by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. This trail is for foot traffic only and perfect family trail, especially for little hikers. Since this is over a swamp, bring that bug spray during the warm months. Parking at Lot G. 

West Campus trails are a series of mountain biking, hiking, and equestrian trails located on the University of West Florida's nature preserve in north Pensacola FL. The trails extend on both sides of Pate Street. While these trails are primarily suited for mountain bikers ranging from beginners to intermediates, this trail plays well for hikers as well. There are 5 - 6 different trails to choose from with around 22 miles of trails to enjoy. Hikers need to keep an eye on bikers while bikers need to make their presence known when coming. During heavy rains, avoid the trails to help with erosion. Parking off of Pate Street  

The Main Campus trails are scenic walking routes within the campus itself. Enjoy the architecture of the campus while walking of these three trails. Download the maps on the website to follow the trails. Route A is 1.24 miles, Route B is 1.55 miles, and Route C is 2.10 miles. Then there is the LEAD trails on the campus too. The UWF Staff LEAD program members of 2014 – 2015 chose to create a LEAD trail (1.6 miles) that anyone can visit to take steps toward being a leader. In this Pensacola main campus mapped route, UWF students, faculty, staff or any visitor or member of the community can join the path of success.  See a part of campus you may not have visited yet and go for a walk. The two starting points (or ending points) are located at the WUWF Radio Station and the Center for Fine and Performing Arts.

The last set of trails that the campus offers is the Cross Country Trails. Located opposite of the Sports Complex, runners and walkers may access four cross-country trails. These trails meander through the Baars-Firestone Wildlife Sanctuary exploring sandhill, hammock and wetlands habitats. Offering varied terrain, the trails are bordered by Campus Drive and Campus Lane on two sides and are adjacent to Martin Hall and the Multipurpose Fields. Parking is available at the Sports Complex or between the Building 90 Complex and Martin Hall.

The University of West Florida has a large range of trails for families to enjoy. From young ones to older kids, you can hike, bike, or go for a run on these beautiful trails. Download and take pictures of maps before heading into the trails. Remember Leave No Trace and bring back only memories.