Three Mountains Natural Area

Hills in the Flatlands

Found in Coral Springs, Florida lies Three Mountains Natural Area, a 21-acre haven that breaks all the rules of South Florida geography. In a region where even speed bumps count as elevation changes, this park offers something truly unexpected - actual hills!

These so-called "mountains" aren't natural formations (sorry to burst that bubble), but rather man-made hills created from sand dredged from local canals back in the '50s and '60s. Standing between 40-45 feet tall, they might not impress someone from Colorado, but in Broward County? These modest peaks stand out - possibly the only legitimate hills in all of South Florida.

Nature With a View

Climb to the top of these sandy summits and you'll be rewarded with sweeping views of the surrounding neighborhoods and landscape. On clear days, the visibility is impressive, and many locals make the trek up specifically to catch those golden hour sunsets over Coral Springs - definitely worth the climb.

Winding trails meander throughout the property, inviting you to explore the terrain and native plant life at your own pace. The park has become a little wildlife haven amid the suburbs, making it great for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers. Keep your eyes peeled and you might spot ospreys hunting in the adjacent canal or other Florida critters going about their day.

For extra exploration, check out the river area behind the park - another quiet spot to connect with nature without leaving the city.

Get Moving

While primarily preserved as a natural area, the park offers some recreational options to keep you entertained. It's become a favorite spot for disc golf players, photography buffs, and families looking for some casual outdoor fun.

The real draw for many visitors? Those hills! In flat-as-a-pancake Florida, the steep inclines provide a surprisingly challenging workout opportunity. You'll regularly see fitness enthusiasts huffing their way up and down the slopes - it's particularly popular for "rucking" (hiking with weighted backpacks) for those looking to really feel the burn.

What to Know Before You Go

Families will appreciate the well-maintained playground suitable for kids ages 5-12, but younger adventurers can usually handle it with a watchful eye nearby. There are also several picnic areas scattered throughout with open spaces and those rare elevated views.

A couple of things to note before visiting: parking is extremely limited with just two standard spots and one accessible space, making this primarily a neighborhood park for those within walking distance. Also, there are no restroom facilities available, so plan accordingly.

Three Mountains offers something uniquely refreshing in South Florida's landscape - a place where you can actually stand on high ground and see for miles. It's a small but special natural retreat right in the heart of Coral Springs that breaks the flatland monotony in the best possible way.