Venturing out alone to birdwatch or hike in Florida’s parks and trails is an incredibly rewarding experience—but it can come with unique challenges.
Inspired by a solo trip to Lake Louisa State Park, here are my top 10 tips to being smart and staying safe, so you can confidently explore and have a successful solo birding (or hiking) adventure.
10 tips for solo birding (or hiking)
- Drop a pin where you parked
It’s easy to lose track of where you started, especially in Florida’s sprawling parks and preserves. Dropping a pin ensures you have a clear way back, preventing unnecessary stress or getting lost in unfamiliar terrain.
- Make sure your phone is fully charged and share your location with someone else
A charged phone is your lifeline for navigation and emergencies (and maybe even that perfect bird photo!) Sharing your location adds an extra layer of safety, ensuring someone knows where you are in case of unexpected issues.
- Wear long pants and bring bug spray
Florida’s trails can be full of mosquitoes, ticks, and thorny plants that can make your hike uncomfortable. Long pants and bug spray keep you protected from bites, scratches, and unwanted hitchhikers.
- Avoid going if it’s rained heavily in the last 24 hours
Many Florida trails turn into muddy, waterlogged messes after rain, making hiking difficult and potentially dangerous. Plus, standing water increases mosquito activity, making for a less-than-wonderful experience.
- When you pass a fork in the trail, turn around and see what it looks like from the other direction
Trails can look completely different on the way back, and recognizing landmarks from both directions helps prevent wrong turns. This simple habit makes it easier to find your way back without second-guessing yourself.
- Wear ALL the sunscreen
Florida’s sun is no joke, and even shady trails can expose you to harmful UV rays. A slathering of sunscreen prevents burns and keeps you from looking like a lobster at the end of your adventure.
- Try to remain calm when you see a really cool bird
Sudden movements and loud noises can startle birds before you can get a proper look. Stay still, breathe, and enjoy the moment—and hopefully your patience will reward you with a good sighting (and maybe even a photo or two) of that elusive lifer!
- Bring plenty of water and maybe a little snack
The Florida heat can be brutal, and dehydration can sneak up on you fast. Packing extra water and a snack keeps your energy up, ensuring you can fully enjoy your time on the trail without daydreaming about lunch.
- Take a cobweb to the face, then celebrate the fact you’re the first person down that trail today
While it may be unpleasant, walking through an undisturbed web means you’re the first explorer on the path that day. It often means better bird sightings, as fewer people have disturbed the wildlife.
- Appreciate the sounds of nature and have fun!
Solo birding and hiking are all about immersing yourself in nature. Really take the time to listen, observe, and enjoy the peace—every outing is an opportunity for a memorable solo adventure.
What tips for solo birding did I miss? Get in touch to let me know!
Happy birding,
Elli
