American alligators walking and crossing trails in Florida parks, part 1

Alligators walking or crossing trails in Florida parks is a common and natural occurrence, especially in spring and summer when they are more active due to mating season (April–June) and warmer temperatures. Florida has an estimated 1.3 million alligators, and they are present in all 67 counties, so encountering them on or near trails, especially near water, isn’t unusual.

Why Alligators Cross Trails
Basking: Alligators move to open areas like trails to sun themselves.

Migration: They often move between water bodies.

Territorial reasons: Males may roam during mating season.

Food: They're sometimes following prey or foraging.