Refuge hiking trails are open February 1 - September 30, during daylight hours. These trails travel through bottomland hardwood forest and/or along levees. Look for neotropical birds during the spring and watch for alligators in the canals. Knee high mud boots may come in handy during the wet season. Insect repellent and sunscreen are also recommended. Trails are periodically mowed and cleared of brush as weather and staffing permit, so a sense of adventure can sometimes be an asset!
The Garden City Interpretive Boardwalk Trail and the Franklin hiking trail are open year-round, all other trails are closed to hikers during the hunting season for public safety.