5 /5 Victoria Swan: We took a late afternoon walk through Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve, and it was a great way to connect with nature—even in the Florida heat. Thankfully, theres a convenient water station at the welcome center where you can refill your water bottle or take a good gulp before starting your walk. I definitely recommend bringing your own bottle along!
The welcome center itself is a nice little stop. Inside, there’s a small exhibit to explore and a gift shop that seemed to have lots of fun items, especially for kids. You can also grab a boardwalk trail guide there, which helps you navigate and learn more about the preserve.
Entry is free, but there is a small fee for parking. We opted for the shorter boardwalk loop, though there’s also a longer route for those looking for a bit more adventure. The boardwalk trail takes you through lush cypress wetlands, and you’re surrounded by nature every step of the way. The ponds were full of life—birds, turtles, and other wildlife were easy to spot if you slowed down and looked around.
Despite the warmth, the towering cypress trees provided plenty of shade, making the walk comfortable and relaxing. Whether youre a nature lover or just looking for something fun and peaceful to do, I’d absolutely recommend checking out Six Mile Cypress. It’s a hidden gem worth visiting!