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Secret Woods Nature Center
4.7 ★★★★★ 1,617 Google reviews · Running trail in Fort Lauderdale, Florida · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Boardwalk
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Tree cover
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Secret Woods Nature Center's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Urban wilderness area including butterfly garden, reptile habitat & nature trails on 57 acres.
What runners say about Secret Woods Nature Center
“Everything was very well maintained, and I loved being surrounded by so much nature and wildlife.”
“I urge the County to continue to prioritize funding the maintenance and enrichment of this very accessible, beautiful piece of our natural heritage.”
“I spotted raccoons tucked among the trees and saw a variety of birds moving through the canopy, which made the walk feel lively yet quiet at the same time.”
“If you're looking for a peaceful and scenic spot to connect with nature, Secret Woods is definitely worth a visit.”
“If you’re interested in nature trials but you’re a beginner or want something easy/family friendly, this is a great spot.”
I’ve lived on Peter’s roads for decades and never went to explore these trails. I did go once to a wedding at their cabin. The trails were perfect and well kept. Loved the board walk, some with rails others without. I also liked how some trails were both board walk and mulch trail on and off.
My kids, my best friend, her husband & I went walking on the trail here. It was my second time walking for more than 30 mins in Florida. And this I must say was a very good exercise and trail. We saw lots of varieties of crabs, birds, spiders, and plants. My family and I enjoyed this nature walk.
This nature preserve was such a peaceful and refreshing place to spend time outdoors. From the moment I arrived, everything felt calm and welcoming. The trail itself was short and easy to walk, which made it perfect for a relaxed visit without feeling rushed or exhausted.
Went here for the first time on Mother's Day with my 3.5 year old son. As far as nature trails in the area, this is one of the best I've been to. Not crowded at all and we probably only saw 3 or 4 other groups the entire time. Plenty of parking and restrooms near the parking lot. No entry fee and free parking.
Trail conditions & character
“If you're looking for a peaceful and scenic spot to connect with nature, Secret Woods is definitely worth a visit.”
“I urge the County to continue to prioritize funding the maintenance and enrichment of this very accessible, beautiful piece of our natural heritage.”
“The boardwalk is out in a few places for what looks like a while now but it gives you the opportunity to walk a little more.”
“They also had an area blocked off in the parking lot with a kids play area , restrooms , shade and water.”
“I spotted raccoons tucked among the trees and saw a variety of birds moving through the canopy, which made the walk feel lively yet quiet at the same time.”
“They also had an area blocked off in the parking lot with a kids play area , restrooms , shade and water.”
“I urge the County to continue to prioritize funding the maintenance and enrichment of this very accessible, beautiful piece of our natural heritage.”
Plan your run at Secret Woods Nature Center
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfaceBoardwalk — flat and scenic, and slick when wet, so watch your footing
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeRunners describe real tree cover here — it makes a summer afternoon workable
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitebroward.org
- Phone+1 954-357-8884
Hours
| Monday | 9 am–5 pm |
| Tuesday | 9 am–5 pm |
| Wednesday | 9 am–5 pm |
| Thursday | 9 am–5 pm |
| Friday | 9 am–5 pm |
| Saturday | 9 am–5 pm |
| Sunday | 9 am–5 pm |
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