Fort Trail begins from the rear of the first parking lot and carries you to one of America's southern most state park sites. During and after 21 years of construction, Fort Zachary Taylor was a key trade defense presence along Florida's west coast. The trail itself is a mere 0.25 mile in length but wandering around the parade grounds, touring the gun rooms and climbing atop the Osceola Battery makes your hike whatever distance you desire. For those seeking more exercise, hike along the intersecting Bike Trail which carries you to the northern edge of the park and alongside the Gulf. The bike trail weaves southbound to intersect with Point Trail which connects to the beach parking lot.

The park staff does offer regularly scheduled tours explaining the fort's importance. In addition, this park is well known for its fabulous fishing, snorkeling and sunbathing opportunities. The concessionaire, located beach side, rents snorkeling gear. Anglers find the rock jetty a successful spot for catching tarpon, grouper and red snapper.

Directions: From Key West, FL, Travel U.S. Highway 1 west. Turn right (north) onto Thomas Street. Turn left (west) onto Southard Street on Truman Annexin Key West. The Fort Trail begins from the rear of the first parking lot.

Elevation: 5 - 10 feet

Elevation Gain: Minimal

Difficulty: Easy

Visitor Information