If you’ve been singing the lyrics “I walk a lonely road” a lot lately, you’re not… alone (well, in a sense). Lakeland roads are less lonely than many, but we’ll get to that in a minute.
If national averages indicate anything, it’s that roads overall may have seen fewer walkers during the past few years. According to a recent data report by Streetlight, annual average daily walking trips dropped 36% in the US between 2019 and 2022.
How does that national average shake out in Lakeland, and where are the best spots to raise those national trend (and step count) numbers? Let’s take a look.
By the numbers
- -31% | Percent change in walking trips in Florida
- -29% | Percent change in walking trips in Lakeland-Winter Haven
- 35 | Lakeland’s score out of 100 on Walk Score’s walkability meter
What does a percent change in walking trips mean? Say a metro area sees a -50% change in walking trips. This means, on average, walking trips declined by 50% in that area. (For the record, none of the top 100 metros in the study saw that much of a decline — the biggest dip was 49% in Akron, OH.)
Where to walk the walk
Wondering where you can get your steps in? Check out these pedestrian-friendly spots around town, from local parks to protected streets.
- Lake Hollingsworth | You knew this spot would be on our list, didn’t you? This popular walking trail comes in at just under three miles.
- Three Parks Trail | Enjoy views of Cleveland Heights Golf Course, Woodlake Park, and Common Ground Playground from dawn until dusk on this roughly four-mile trail.
- Circle B Bar Reserve | Visit these five combined miles of walking trails to spot sunbathing gators or watch wildlife.
- Bonnet Springs Park | Take a shady stroll through the treetops on BSP’s 1,500-ft, ADA-accessible Crenshaw Canopy Walk.
Pro tip: Use this interactive map of Lakeland’s walking and biking trails to find your perfect path.
