The best walks and hikes in Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park

Leashed dogs are welcome on the paved park roads and in the picnic areas, but they are not permitted on the beaches or the unpaved nature trails, such as the Barrier Island Nature Trail. This is to protect the park's sensitive coastal ecosystem and wildlife.

The trails in the park are generally flat and easy to navigate. The primary paths, like the Barrier Island Nature Trail, consist of relatively hard-packed sand that winds through a subtropical coastal hammock. Be aware that some spots can have puddles after a rain.

Yes, the park is well-suited for families. The main self-guided nature walk is a short, leisurely 0.4-mile path that is great for all ages. For a slightly longer but still manageable adventure, consider the Whiskey Creek loop from Dania Beach Ocean Park, which is an easy and flat route offering a great look at the park's environment.

Bicycling is a popular activity within the park. While the sandy nature trails are for hiking only, you can cycle along the 2.5-mile paved park drive, which offers scenic views of the area.

The park is a fantastic spot for wildlife viewing and is part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail. Along the trails and shore, you might spot pelicans, herons, and egrets. The waters of Whiskey Creek are a sanctuary for West Indian manatees. During the summer, the beaches are important nesting grounds for loggerhead sea turtles.

There is ample parking available for a fee inside Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park. Once inside, you can park at various lots close to the trailheads, picnic areas, and beach access points. The Barrier Island Nature Trail has a designated parking area near its entrance.

The trails that wind through the coastal hammock, such as the Barrier Island Nature Trail, offer sections of shade from native vegetation like sea grapes and wild coffee. However, other parts of the park, especially along the beach and paved roads, are very exposed to the sun. It's always a good idea to bring sun protection.

You can find over 70 different hiking routes in and around the park on komoot. These range from short, easy nature walks to more moderate loops that explore the coastline, providing plenty of options for different fitness levels.

The routes in this area are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the unique experience of walking between the calm Whiskey Creek and the Atlantic Ocean, as well as the abundant opportunities for birdwatching.

While most trails in the park are easy, you can find some moderately challenging options. The Jungle Queen Riverboat loop from Harbor Heights is a longer route of nearly 6 miles that explores the areas surrounding the park, offering a more extended workout.

Yes, Whiskey Creek offers a beautiful and calm environment perfect for canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The mangrove-lined waterway is a protected area for marine life, and rentals are typically available within the park for those who don't have their own equipment.

The park is named in honor of Civil Rights leaders Dr. Von D. Mizell and Eula Johnson. They led 'wade-in' protests in the 1950s and 60s to desegregate South Florida's beaches, and this location was historically the designated 'colored beach' for Broward County before desegregation.