Life on Paws and Wheels

Hey friends! Ash here from Life on Paws and Wheels, and this week, Simba the Adventure Pup and I veered off the beaten path for one of the strangest and most delightful stops on our travels so far — the Museum of Wonder Drive-Thru in Seale, Alabama. If you’re a full-time RVer, roadside oddity enthusiast, or just someone who loves a little weird art with a wink, this spot is a must-see. And yes — it’s totally dog-friendly (Simba was glued to the window the whole time)! 📍 Where We Went Name: Museum of Wonder Drive-Thru Location: Seale, Alabama Type: Roadside attraction / drive-thru folk art museum Dog-Friendly: Yes – Simba stayed in the car and loved the ride Best For: Curious travelers, art lovers, weird America explorers, and RVers who love detours 🌀 What Is the Museum of Wonder? Created by folk artist Butch Anthony, this one-of-a-kind roadside attraction features a collection of sculptures, artifacts, found objects, and handmade signs, all arranged in metal shipping containers...

Hey friends! Ash here from Life on Paws and Wheels, and this week, Simba the Adventure Pup and I explored the lively, sun-soaked stretch of Panama City Beach and Pier Park — one of the most vibrant spots along Florida’s Gulf Coast. With white-sand beaches, colorful shops, outdoor patios, and plenty of dog-friendly energy, this destination was a perfect mix of chill coastal charm and upbeat adventure for us both. 📍 Where We Went Location: Panama City Beach & Pier Park – Panama City, FL Vibes: Coastal, festive, family-friendly, and great for pups Activity: Casual walking, exploring shops, enjoying beachside breeze Dog-Friendly: Yes – most of Pier Park is open to leashed dogs, and there's a dog beach nearby too! 🌊 What to Expect at Pier Park Pier Park isn’t your average shopping center — it’s a full-on outdoor coastal experience. Here’s what we loved: ✔️ Wide pedestrian-friendly walkways perfect for strollers and dog leashes ✔️ Plenty of dog-welcoming patios and stores wit...

Hey everyone! Ash here from Life on Paws and Wheels, and this week Simba the Adventure Pup and I swapped dirt trails for dockside vibes on a peaceful stroll along the Destin Harbor Boardwalk in beautiful Destin, Florida. If you’re road-tripping through the Florida Panhandle or just looking for a dog-friendly waterfront walk full of charm and coastal character, this boardwalk is a can’t-miss stop! 📍 Location Snapshot Spot: Destin Harbor Boardwalk City: Destin, Florida (Florida Panhandle) Route Type: Out-and-back Distance: Varies (we walked about a mile each way) Difficulty: Easy Dog-Friendly: Yes – leashed dogs welcome! Terrain: Wooden boardwalk + paved paths 🌴 What to Expect The Destin Harbor Boardwalk is known for its lively yet laid-back Gulf Coast energy. Here’s what makes it a great destination for dog lovers: ✔️ Scenic water views of the harbor and East Pass ✔️ Fishing boats, charter tours, and sea breeze all around ✔️ Outdoor patios and shops, many dog-friendly ✔️ Rel...

Hey trail friends! Ash here from Life on Paws and Wheels, and this week, Simba the Adventure Pup and I explored a peaceful and lesser-known trail system near Panama City, Florida — the Cypress Pond, Osprey, and Buck Pond Trail Loop. This quiet stretch of pine flatwoods, shaded forest, and pond views was the perfect escape from the busier parts of the Panhandle, and a great stop if you’re road-tripping through North Florida with your pup. 🗺️ Trail Overview Location: Panama City, FL Loop Distance: ~3.5 miles (combining all 3 trails) Difficulty: Easy to moderate Terrain: Natural surface trails, flatwoods, boardwalks, occasional roots/sand Dog-Friendly: 100% – Simba approved every step! 🌿 What to Expect on the Loop This loop is a combo of three trails — Cypress Pond, Osprey, and Buck Pond — each with its own charm, but all offering the same peaceful, forested vibe. Here’s what you can expect: ✔️ Shaded pine forest trails with wide, natural paths ✔️ Pond overlooks where you might s...

Hey trail tribe! Ash here from Life on Paws and Wheels, and this week… things got weird. 😆 Simba and I returned to Piney-Z Lake Loop at Lafayette Heritage Trail Park in Tallahassee, Florida — but instead of our usual peaceful nature walk, we decided to crank up the chaos and imagination with a brand-new parody adventure. This time, it wasn’t about quiet trails and scenic lake views — it was about tickling gators. Yep, you read that right. 🐊🤣 🎭 A Parody with a Florida Twist In this fictional, AI-enhanced comedy skit, we reimagine our hike with a wild twist: Ash (me) encounters a suspiciously cartoonish gator on the trail... and instead of backing away like a sane person, decides this is the perfect moment to tickle the gator. Let’s just say it doesn’t go as planned. The “gator” is not amused, the situation spirals into absurdity, and Simba the Adventure Pup just watches with his usual "what is my human even doing?" face. Classic. It’s weird. It’s fun. It’s Florida. 🌴 📍 A...

Hey trail friends! Ash here from Life on Paws and Wheels, and this week, Simba the Adventure Pup and I took a peaceful walk around one of Tallahassee’s best-kept nature secrets — the Piney-Z Lake Loop at Lafayette Heritage Trail Park. If you’re RVing through North Florida or just need a quiet place to walk, breathe, and reconnect with nature, this trail delivers a refreshing mix of lake views, wildlife, and dog-friendly paths in a beautifully shaded setting. 🗺️ Trail Snapshot Location: Lafayette Heritage Trail Park – Tallahassee, FL Trail: Piney-Z Lake Loop Distance: ~2.5 miles (loop) Difficulty: Easy Terrain: Crushed gravel, boardwalks, shaded dirt paths Dog-Friendly: Absolutely — Simba gave it two muddy paws up! 🌲 Why We Loved This Loop The Piney-Z Lake Loop is a perfect blend of natural beauty and trail accessibility. Here’s what made this hike so memorable: ✔️ Peaceful lakefront views from almost every angle ✔️ Wildlife galore — we spotted turtles, herons, and butterflies ...

Hey friends! Ash here from Life on Paws and Wheels, and this week, Simba the Adventure Pup and I traded forest trails for something a little more cultural: a walk through the historic Sponge Docks in Tarpon Springs, Florida. If you’ve never been, this spot is packed with Greek heritage, salty sea air, unique shops, and tasty treats — and yes, it’s dog-friendly too! It’s one of those unexpected gems you stumble upon and instantly fall in love with, especially if you’re road-tripping the Gulf Coast in your RV. 🗺️ Quick Overview Location: Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks – Tarpon Springs, FL Activity Type: Urban stroll / cultural exploration Distance Walked: ~1–1.5 miles (looping through the district) Dog-Friendly: Absolutely — Simba was all tail wags and sniffs Parking: Street and public lots nearby (RV tip below!) ⚓ What Makes the Sponge Docks So Special The Sponge Docks are rich in Greek-American history, originally developed by sponge divers who immigrated from Greece in the early 19...

Hey everyone! Ash here from Life on Paws and Wheels, and this week Simba and I set out to explore one of Florida’s best-kept coastal secrets — the beautiful, breezy trail loop that connects Anclote Gulf Park and Key Vista Nature Park in Holiday, FL. If you're looking for an easy, dog-friendly trail that combines Gulf of Mexico views, forest paths, wildlife, and even a scenic observation tower, this one’s for you. It’s a perfect low-key adventure if you're RVing the west coast of Florida or just want a relaxing hike with your pup. 🗺️ Trail Overview Location: Holiday, Florida – Pasco County Trail: Anclote Gulf Park & Key Vista Park Loop Distance: ~2.5 miles (loop trail across both parks) Difficulty: Easy Terrain: Boardwalks, crushed shell paths, shady forest trails, coastal overlooks Dog-Friendly: 100% yes — Simba gave it two paws up! 🌴 What Makes This Loop Special This hike is the perfect blend of coastal breeze and quiet forest, with lots of variety packed into jus...

Hey there! Ash here from Life on Paws and Wheels, and this week Simba and I discovered a quiet, shady escape tucked away in Tarpon Springs, Florida — the Anderson Park Trail at A.L. Anderson Park. This scenic park in Pinellas County was the perfect place for a laid-back stroll, with plenty of tree-lined paths, lakeside views, and peaceful nature to go around. Whether you’re an RV traveler passing through or a local looking for an easy afternoon walk with your pup, this one’s a hidden gem worth exploring. 🗺️ Trail Overview Trail Name: Anderson Park Trail Location: A.L. Anderson Park – Tarpon Springs, FL Distance: ~1.5 miles total (with loops and side paths) Difficulty: Easy Terrain: Paved and natural surface trails through oak hammocks and lakeside edges Dog-Friendly: Absolutely — Simba had a tail-wagging time! 🌿 What Makes Anderson Park Special Unlike busy beach paths or crowded urban trails, Anderson Park offers a slower, quieter kind of beauty: ✔️ Shady oak and pine trai...

Hey there! Ash here from Life on Paws and Wheels, and this week, Simba the Adventure Pup and I traded beachside breezes for something a little different — rushing river rapids, shaded trails, and forest magic at Hillsborough River State Park in Central Florida. Our hike along the River Rapids Nature Trail was short, peaceful, and full of surprises — including one of Florida’s rare natural river rapids! Whether you’re road-tripping through the area or looking for a low-key trail with water views, this one’s worth the detour. 🗺️ About the Trail • Trail Name: River Rapids Nature Trail •  Location: Hillsborough River State Park – Hillsborough County, FL •  Distance: ~1.2-mile loop •  Difficulty: Easy •  Terrain: Shaded forest, packed dirt, occasional roots •  Dog-Friendly: 100% yes — Simba loved the smells and views! 🌿 What Makes This Trail Special Florida isn’t exactly known for elevation or fast-moving rivers — but this trail changes that. Along the way, y...

Hey explorers! Ash here from Life on Paws and Wheels, and this week Simba and I took a detour from the beaches and boardwalks to explore something truly unexpected — natural caves in the middle of Florida! Welcome to Dames Caves in Hernando County, a short but unforgettable trail that leads to limestone sinkholes and open cave formations, right in the heart of a quiet forest. It’s one of the coolest “off-the-map” stops we’ve made in Central Florida — and yes, it’s dog-friendly and RV-travel approved. 📍 About Dames Caves Tucked away just off Citrus Way, Dames Caves is part of the Withlacoochee State Forest area and is unofficial but well-loved by locals and adventurers alike. There’s no visitor center or paved trail — just a rugged path leading into Florida’s geological past. 🛤️ Distance: ~1 mile out and back 🥾 Difficulty: Easy to moderate 🌲 Terrain: Sandy, rooty, and rocky in some areas 🐕 Dog-Friendly: Absolutely — just keep your pup leashed and safe around the cave edges ...

Hey friends! Ash here from Life on Paws and Wheels, and this week, Simba and I swapped out hiking boots for flip-flops (okay, just me — Simba stuck with paw pads!) and took on the South Beach Boardwalk in Miami, Florida. Starting at the iconic South Pointe Park Pier and heading north toward Mid-Beach, this breezy, palm-lined boardwalk gave us a perfect dose of urban coastal charm. If you're traveling through South Florida and want to mix dog-friendly fun with city energy and beach views, this walk is a must. 📍 What to Expect on the South Beach Boardwalk This isn’t your average walk — it’s pure Miami. The South Beach Boardwalk (sometimes called the Beachwalk) follows the Atlantic shoreline and offers: ✔️ Uninterrupted ocean views ✔️ Palm trees, white sand, and rolling waves ✔️ Colorful Art Deco architecture peeking through the buildings ✔️ People-watching paradise — joggers, rollerbladers, beachgoers, and pups alike ✔️ Dog-friendly vibes — just keep your pup leashed and respect...

Hey everyone! Ash here from Life on Paws and Wheels, and this week, Simba and I traded forest trails and mountains for palm trees, sunshine, and island vibes in Key West, Florida — and wow, did it deliver! We spent a full day exploring this vibrant, quirky, tropical town, checking out iconic landmarks, strolling colorful streets, and enjoying several pup-friendly stops along the way. Whether you're RVing down the Florida Keys or planning a pet-friendly vacation, Key West is full of charm, history, and tails-wagging fun. 🗺️ Our Dog-Friendly Itinerary Here’s how Simba and I spent our sun-soaked day: 🌴 Southernmost Point No trip to Key West is complete without a stop at the Southernmost Point Buoy — the most photographed spot in town! 📸 Simba posed like a pro (though we skipped the long photo line). Early morning visits are best to beat the crowds. 🏠 Ernest Hemingway Home (outside only) Dogs aren’t allowed inside, but we walked the outside perimeter and peeked at the historic hom...

Hey friends! Ash here from Life on Paws and Wheels, and today Simba and I are taking it slow with a relaxed walk along the El Rio Trail in Boca Raton, Florida. This paved, dog-friendly path winds through peaceful neighborhoods, runs alongside a scenic canal, and brings a mellow, nature-meets-urban vibe that’s perfect for pups and people alike. If you’re looking for a calm, accessible trail with just the right touch of wildlife and water views, El Rio is a great South Florida stop. 🗺️ About the El Rio Trail The El Rio Trail stretches roughly 4.8 miles one way, though you can hop on at various access points and just walk a section like we did. It runs parallel to a canal and offers: ✔️ Paved, flat trail – great for walking, biking, or jogging ✔️ Scenic water views – keep an eye out for turtles, birds, and even iguanas! ✔️ Quiet neighborhoods and shaded spots ✔️ Easy, low-stress walk for all ages (and all paws 🐾) This isn’t a wilderness trail, but it’s a solid option for a relaxing o...

Hey everyone! Ash here from Life on Paws and Wheels, and today Simba and I are slowing things down with a relaxing stroll through Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale — a scenic, dog-friendly escape right in the heart of the city. After days of trail hikes and campground stays, it felt amazing to wander a waterfront promenade, enjoy the breeze off the New River, and take in the sights of downtown Fort Lauderdale — all at a pup-approved pace. 📍 About Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale is a beautiful linear park that hugs the New River as it winds through the city. It’s not your typical “hike,” but it’s definitely a walk worth taking. Here’s what you’ll find: ✔️ Wide, paved walkways — great for both people and pups ✔️ Palm-lined paths and shady trees — hello, cool breezes! ✔️ Views of boats, city buildings, and waterfront cafes ✔️ Benches, artwork, and spots to sit and relax Whether you’re stretching your legs after a long RV drive or looking for a gentle city stroll, this spot...

Hey everyone! Ash here from Life on Paws and Wheels, and today Simba and I are trading the forest trails for some ocean breeze and salty air with a quick visit to Fort Lauderdale Beach in sunny South Florida. This isn't a hike, but it is one of those detours that fills your soul — a gentle walk along the oceanfront, paws on pavement, palms swaying overhead, and the sound of waves in the background. Whether you're full-timing in your RV or just craving a little sunshine, this spot delivers the classic beach vibes in the best way. 📍 About the Stop Fort Lauderdale Beach is known for its wide stretches of sand, scenic oceanfront promenade, and those iconic blue-and-white wave walls. It’s not just a great place to visit — it’s the perfect place for a leisurely walk with your pup. ✔️ Smooth paved walkway along the beach ✔️ Plenty of palm trees and shade breaks ✔️ Ocean views the whole way ✔️ Dog-friendly (on-leash in designated areas) Simba and I kept it simple: an early morning ...

Hey friends! Ash here from Life on Paws and Wheels, and today Simba and I are sharing a peaceful, shady stroll through one of South Florida’s best-kept secrets — the Tree Tops Nature Trail at Tree Tops Park in Davie, FL. If you’re looking for a quick escape into nature, love quiet boardwalks under towering oaks, and want to enjoy it all with your dog by your side, this trail is an ideal stop — especially if you’re RVing near Fort Lauderdale or just passing through the area. 🗺️ About the Trail The Tree Tops Nature Trail is a ~1-mile easy loop tucked within the larger Tree Tops Park, just west of Fort Lauderdale. This short trail packs a lot into a small space: ✔️ Elevated boardwalks through native wetlands ✔️ Shaded oak hammocks and forested paths ✔️ A peaceful, uncrowded vibe that makes it easy to relax and slow down It's a perfect low-impact hike for all ages, all seasons, and especially for dogs who love exploring at a calm pace. 🐾 Simba’s Favorite Moments ✔️ Leashed + welcom...

Hey friends! Ash here from Life on Paws and Wheels, and today Simba and I are taking you on a relaxing, nature-filled stroll through one of our favorite low-key trails in Central Florida — the Red Loop Trail in the Econ River Wilderness Area. Tucked away in Seminole County, this dog-friendly loop is a great spot to slow down, reconnect with nature, and let your pup enjoy some quality sniff time under the shade of oak and pine trees. 🗺️ About the Red Loop Trail The Red Loop Trail is a ~3-mile loop that winds through the beautiful Econ River Wilderness Area, a quiet nature preserve known for its mix of habitats — from pine flatwoods and shady oak hammocks to wetlands teeming with life. This trail is flat, wide, and easy, making it ideal for a casual morning or afternoon hike. It’s a favorite among locals for a quick escape into the woods — and after walking it, we totally get why. 🐾 Why Simba Loved It ✔️ Dog-friendly + leashed welcome — Simba enjoyed every minute, tail wagging the whol...

Hey friends! Ash here from Life on Paws and Wheels, and today Simba and I are slowing things down a bit for a peaceful, forest-filled hike along a scenic stretch of the Florida Trail in Seminole County. We hiked the section between Lockwood Blvd and Barr Street, a mellow and dog-friendly out-and-back that follows the Little Big Econ River, winds through pine flatwoods, and offers a dose of quiet Florida nature — no crowds, no stress, just trees, birds, and happy paws. 🐾🌿 🗺️ About the Trail This segment of the Florida Trail covers about 6 miles roundtrip, making it a great half-day outing. It’s part of the Little Big Econ State Forest trail system and showcases some of Central Florida’s most underrated terrain — think shaded woodlands, palm hammocks, elevated boardwalks, and serene riverside sections. There’s minimal elevation gain, so the trail is mostly easy with a few moderate patches, like soft sand or root-covered sections. We parked at the Lockwood Blvd trailhead and hiked to t...

Hey friends! Ash here from Life on Paws and Wheels, and today Simba and I are taking you into the wild wetlands of Florida for one of our most rugged and unique hikes yet — the Black Bear Wilderness Area Trail in Seminole County! This one’s for the adventurers — the folks who don’t mind a little mud, love spotting wildlife, and want to experience Florida beyond the beaches. Spoiler: Simba had an absolute blast. 🐾🌿 🗺️ About the Trail The Black Bear Wilderness Area Trail is a 7.1-mile loop just outside Sanford, Florida. It winds through dense forest, swampy marshland, and alongside the St. Johns River. What makes this hike special? ✔️ Elevated boardwalks through swamp areas ✔️ True Florida backcountry vibes ✔️ Tons of wildlife — birds, alligators, snakes (be aware!), and yes, even occasional black bear sightings ✔️ A mix of dry forest trail + wet, muddy patches that’ll challenge your footing and your gear This trail is popular with locals but still feels wild and remote — a true g...

Hey trail friends! Ash here from Life on Paws and Wheels, and this week, Simba and I ventured into one of Central Florida’s most beautiful state parks — Wekiwa Springs — to hike the peaceful and scenic Volksmarch Trail. This easygoing loop winds through pine flatwoods, sandhills, and wetlands, offering a quiet escape into nature just outside of Orlando. It’s the perfect trail for RV travelers looking to stretch their legs or for locals seeking a serene hike with their dog. 🗺️ Trail Overview Trail Name: Volksmarch Trail Location: Wekiwa Springs State Park, Apopka, FL Distance: ~5.3 miles (loop) Difficulty: Easy to moderate Dog-Friendly: Yes – Simba was loving every sniff The Volksmarch Trail offers a little bit of everything — tall pines, quiet sandy paths, patches of shade, and even a chance to spot deer, wild turkeys, or gopher tortoises if you’re lucky. It's a great intro to the wild beauty Florida has to offer beyond the beaches. 🐾 Simba’s Trail Highlights ✔️ Soft trails...

Hey friends! Ash here from Life on Paws and Wheels, and today Simba (my golden retriever and trail buddy) and I are excited to share one of our most epic hikes yet: climbing to the top of Brasstown Bald — the highest point in Georgia! We tackled this summit via the Jack’s Gap Trail — a challenging but rewarding 6-mile roundtrip climb that delivers jaw-dropping 360° panoramic views across four states. If you’re a hiker, nature lover, or adventurer with your pup, this one belongs at the top of your Georgia bucket list. 🗺️ About the Trail The Jack’s Gap Trail is a moderate-to-strenuous out-and-back hike that steadily ascends to the summit of Brasstown Bald (4,784 feet). Along the way, you’ll pass through beautiful hardwood forests, climb rocky switchbacks, and emerge at the observation tower where sweeping views of Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee await. The summit area has a visitor center, restrooms, and plenty of space to soak in the scenery. On clear days, you c...

Hey friends! Ash here from Life on Paws and Wheels, back with another waterfall-packed adventure. This time, Simba (my golden retriever and trail-loving co-pilot) and I headed to the Raven Cliff Falls Trail in White County, Georgia — and wow, what an incredible hike! If you love waterfalls, forest trails, and hiking with your pup, this is one North Georgia gem you need to put on your list. 🗺️ About the Raven Cliff Falls Trail The Raven Cliff Falls Trail is a 5-mile roundtrip out-and-back hike that takes you deep into the Chattahoochee National Forest. Along the way, you’ll cross footbridges, wander under towering trees, follow a babbling creek, and eventually reach the dramatic Raven Cliff Falls — where the water pours through a split in a massive rock outcrop. It’s easily one of the most beautiful and iconic waterfall hikes in North Georgia, offering plenty of scenery and photo-worthy moments along the way. 🐾 Hiking with Simba: Dog-Friendly Highlights ✔️ Leashed + dog-friendly — Sim...

Hey friends! Ash here from Life on Paws and Wheels, bringing you another epic trail from the road. This time, Simba (my golden retriever and fearless trail explorer) and I tackled the legendary Blood Mountain in Blairsville, Georgia — and what a climb it was! This is the highest point on Georgia’s Appalachian Trail, and we reached the summit via the Byron Reece Trail, one of the most popular and scenic routes in the area. If you're chasing summit views, rugged terrain, and a hike that gets your heart pumping, this one’s for you. 🗺️ About the Blood Mountain Hike This trail is a 4.3-mile roundtrip journey that begins at the Byron Reece Trailhead and connects with the Appalachian Trail. From there, it’s a steady uphill climb to Blood Mountain’s summit, where you’re rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views, massive rock outcrops, and the historic stone shelter at the top. You’ll encounter everything from smooth forest paths to rocky scrambles, and depending on the season, vibrant wi...

Hey friends! Ash here from Life on Paws and Wheels, and today Simba and I are taking you on one of Georgia’s most rewarding hikes — the Mount Yonah Trail in White County! This trail has it all: steep climbs, forest switchbacks, and incredible summit views of the North Georgia mountains. If you’re chasing epic scenery and love a good workout (with your pup by your side), Mount Yonah is a must-hike. 🗺️ About the Mount Yonah Trail The Mount Yonah Trail is a 4.5-mile roundtrip out-and-back hike with 1,400+ feet of elevation gain. Located near Cleveland, Georgia, this well-marked trail climbs steadily through the forest, past rocky outcrops and open ledges, before reaching the exposed summit of Mount Yonah. At the top, you’re rewarded with panoramic views of the Chattahoochee National Forest, surrounding valleys, and layers of rolling ridgelines. It’s truly one of the best summit hikes in Georgia — and yes, it’s dog-friendly too! 🐾 Hiking with Simba: Dog-Friendly Highlights ✔️ Leashed dog...