Project Vision

The Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail (FKOHT) is a multi-use bicycle and pedestrian facility currently under design and construction by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Office of Greenways & Trails (OGT). Ultimately, the vision is of a scenic corridor extending from Key Largo to Key West that serves not only as a highway, but a recreational greenway that permits hiking, running, bicycling, in-line skating, sightseeing, fishing and kayaking. We envision an integrated system of educational kiosks, roadside picnic areas, scenic overlooks, fishing piers and cat walks, boat ramps, water access points, bicycle and jogging paths as well as a myriad of compatible small businesses and services in the nearby area that support these uses. The Old Keys Bridges serve as a central component of this vision, providing opportunities for fishing, sightseeing, recreation and historical reflection. The bridges will also allow safe opportunities for alternative transportation uses of the corridor by allowing people to get from island to island, linking the different communities and their complimentary character.

The trail will link unique ecological resources such as the Everglades National Park, Biscayne National Park, Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, The Great White Heron National Wildlife Refuge, Key Deer National Wildlife Refuge, Crocodile Lakes National Wildlife Refuge, Key West National Marine Sanctuary, as well as 10 State Parks. When completed, the trail will provide alternative transportation for residents and visitors of the Keys, support facilities for recreation both on land and from the water, and will use public art to interpret the natural and cultural history of the Florida Keys. The trail runs parallel to US 1 and is an integral part of the Florida Keys Scenic Highway Project. The fishing bridges offer a significant and unique opportunity for a greenway/transit system.

Current Status:

Most of the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail is in design at this time. There are 60 miles of existing bike paths spread throughout the Keys that are included in the project. Most of these trails will be upgraded over the next few years. An additional 40 miles of new trail will be built starting next year. Key Largo in the Northern Keys is the longest section of bike path beginning at MM 106 and connecting into the Village of Islamorada at MM 82. When crossing the islands, you are required to use the bridge shoulders which are not protected from vehicular traffic at this time. There is 11 miles of trail through Marathon between MM 58 to MM 47, the entrance to the Seven Mile Bridge. The Lower Keys has trails interspersed throughout, including one mile in Big Pine, one mile on Big Coppitt and four miles in the Saddlebunches. Please refer to the Traveling Directions link for more information on existing bike trails. There are no restrictions on traveling on the shoulders if you plan on cycling. Please be sure to follow standard bicycle safety practices when biking.

Fishing is allowed on the Keys bridges and is quite popular on historic Channel 2 Bridge, Channel 5 Bridge, Long Key Bridge and Seven Mile. Fishing Platforms are in development to address potential user conflicts in these areas.

Where is the project?

The beginning of the trail is located approximately one hour from Miami International Airport in Key Largo, Florida at MM 106. The trail will eventually connect with the City of Key West. Parking is available at the local State Parks.

Hours of Operation

Trail is open to the general public; restrictions apply to hours of operation of local businesses that supply amenities.  Surrounding parks close at sunset and access to some bridges may be restricted.

Activities

The trail provides opportunities for bicycling, hiking, fishing, in-line skating, paddling, snorkeling, swimming, hiking and diving.  There are limited camping opportunities available at local state parks and some private campsites in the Keys.   The local Chamber of Commerce will carry this information. 

Contact Information
Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail
3 La Croix Court
Key Largo, Florida 33037
Phone: 305-853-3571
Tallahassee Headquarters: 850-245-2052
email: Debra.Stucki@dep.state.fl.us