Encompassing 1.5 million acres, the Everglades certainly took a hit from Hurricane Irma but it could’ve been so much worse. Keep in mind just how protective the area can be before your next visit. It shields us from incoming storms by reducing storm surge and absorbing floodwater. A common field trip for Miamians in elementary and middle school, the wetland offers plenty of hiking trails. Just watch out for those gators!

Encompassing over 1,000 acres along Biscayne Bay in North Miami is the Oleta River State Park, which is bustling with Casuarina trees and invasive species. It’s a great place to paddleboarding, kayaking, and canoeing.

Located in Key Biscayne is Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, the home of a historic lighthouse that was originally built in 1825 and remains the oldest standing structure in Miami-Dade County. The area is a great place for biking, kayaking, hiking, or an old-fashioned picnic.

This 249-acre park features a hardwood hammock and mangrove forest. The adjacent Oleta River was once a source of transportation for Tequesta Indians.

A natural escape for FIU students, its three ecosystems feature 13 endangered plants, 15 threatened plants, and 238 other plants and animals. There’s also a jogging trail, comprised of over 5,600 recycled tires, and six workout stations.

Among South Florida’s most vibrant and well known green spaces, Fairchild is an 83-acre botanic garden booming with palms, cycads, vines, and so much more.

Explore nature trails within the 65-acre AD Barnes Park, which is nestled in the city near Coral Terrace. This park includes a bird and wild animal sanctuary in 15 acres of native plants and trees.