Ludlam Trail
About
The Ludlam Trail is a scenic multi-use urban pathway that offers families a safe, car-free route to explore South Miami on bikes, scooters, or foot. This paved trail winds through diverse neighborhoods and pockets of natural Florida landscape, making it perfect for active families who want to enjoy the outdoors without leaving the city. It's an excellent spot for teaching little ones to ride bikes or for older kids to build stamina on longer rides.
Highlights
- ✓Smooth, flat paved surface perfect for learning to ride bikes
- ✓Safe, car-free environment for kids to ride independently
- ✓Glimpses of South Florida wildlife including birds and butterflies
- ✓Multiple access points allowing families to customize ride length
- ✓Shaded sections offering relief from the sun
Pro Tips
- 1.Park at Marabella Park (near Bird Road) which has restrooms, water fountains, and a playground for pre or post-trail playtime
- 2.Visit early morning (7-9am) or late afternoon to avoid Miami's intense midday heat and sun exposure
- 3.Bring plenty of water and sunscreen,shade is limited along many sections of the trail
- 4.Look for the mile markers along the trail to help kids track their progress and set achievable distance goals
- 5.Weekday mornings are less crowded than weekends, making it easier for beginner cyclists to practice
Best Time to Visit
Visit during the cooler months (November through March) for the most comfortable experience, preferably in early morning or late afternoon. Weekday mornings offer lighter crowds and easier riding for families with young children still learning bike skills.
What to Know
The trail is completely free to use with multiple access points and parking areas along the route. Bring your own bikes, scooters, or strollers as there are no rentals on-site, and pack snacks and water since amenities are limited between access points.
Seasonal Notes
Best enjoyed during Florida's dry season (November-April) when temperatures are milder and afternoon rain is less frequent. Summer months (June-September) can be extremely hot and humid with daily thunderstorms, so plan morning visits only. The trail is open year-round.
Nearby Eats
Stop by Whisk Gourmet for fresh sandwiches and kid-friendly lunch options, or head to Pincho Factory where kids love the burgers and fun atmosphere with outdoor seating perfect after a trail ride.
More Activities Near South Miami
Dante Fascell Park
Dante Fascell Park is a spacious South Miami gem that delivers everything active families need for a fun-filled day outdoors. With well-maintained playgrounds for different age groups, multiple sports courts and fields, plus plenty of shaded picnic spots under mature trees, this neighborhood park offers the perfect balance of structured play and open space for kids to run free.
Palmer Park
Palmer Park is a beloved South Miami neighborhood gem that delivers everything active families need for an afternoon of outdoor fun. With well-maintained playground equipment, spacious grassy areas perfect for picnics and games, and basketball courts where kids can shoot hoops, this park offers the ideal mix of structured play and open space for children to run free and burn off energy.
Gibson-Bethel Community Center
Gibson-Bethel Community Center is a welcoming hub for South Miami families offering a variety of youth programs, sports leagues, and summer camps throughout the year. With its highly-rated facilities and diverse programming, it's a go-to spot for parents looking to keep kids active, engaged, and connected to their local community through structured activities and family-friendly events.
Murray Park
Murray Park is a well-maintained South Miami gem that hits all the right notes for families with young children. With its combination of modern playground equipment, ample grassy areas for picnicking and play, plus tennis courts and shaded walking paths, it offers the perfect setting for an active morning or relaxing afternoon outdoors with the kids.