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Campus attractions at the university of west florida.

By Florence Beth Snyder

The University of West Florida (UWF) in Pensacola began life in 1963 and wasted no time signaling its ambitions. 

Inspired by Oliver Wendell Holmes, Sr.’s soaring poem, The Chambered Nautilus , founding UWF President Harold Bryan Crosby tapped the sea-dwelling mollusk for the school’s official emblem . It was Crosby’s way of encouraging students to take up the poem’s challenge to “[Leave] thine outgrown shell by life’s unresting sea!”

Students took the message to heart. They selected the Argonauts, a band of heroes from Greek mythology, as the school’s mascot. UWF’s colors, green and blue, symbolize the sea and sky together representing “the vast areas of knowledge that man has explored and the immeasurable ones he has yet to conquer.” Visitors can easily see how far the school has come in fulfilling the big dreams of its founders. At 1,600 acres, the main campus is the second-largest in the State University System. With 25 miles of trails wrapped around 300 acres of marsh and wetlands, UWF is second-to-none for visitors looking to enjoy north Florida’s natural beauty.

A point of special interest is the Edward Ball Nature Trail with its boardwalk running through a ravine and freshwater swamp. Linger in the hardwood habitat to watch the wading egrets as you listen to songs sung by prothonotary warblers, northern parulas, summer tanagers and great crested flycatchers. Discerning ornithologists stop by in the spring and fall to catch a concert by whatever migrating species is passing through.

The Edward Ball boardwalk is one of 515 stops on the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail , a 2,000-mile highway that connects and unifies 515 birding and wildlife viewing sites throughout the state. It’s a must-see for committed nature trail explorers who can handle its steep slope; for those who require a more level playing field, there are miles of trail suitable for walkers, bikers and runners of every size and shape. When your appetite is good and worked up, make your way to UWF’s main dining halls in the University Commons. The Argos are serious foodies, and place high value on fresh, seasonally available ingredients. Campus meal plans encourage students to “try something different every day.” The recently remodeled Nautilus Market offers breakfast foods, comfort foods, international foods, Italian foods and deli foods served family-style, which is to say “all you can eat.”

Jeremy Daw and his sister, Savannah, head to the gaming area of the Argo Galley on the campus of the University of West Florida.

Jeremy Daw and his sister, Savannah, head to the gaming area of the Argo Galley on the campus of the University of West Florida.

- Andrew Wardlow for VISIT FLORIDA

For those practicing portion control, the Argo Galley is the safer choice. The Galley boasts a gaming area with pool, foosball and ping-pong tables; a baby grand piano; 20 flat-screen TVs and a massive quad-screen. In and around the main buildings, you’ll find everything from sushi to submarine sandwiches, chicken to coffee, and pizza to pastry. Pick up a bite or bring your own picnic basket to Camellia Green in February or March, when UWF’s prized flowers are in full bloom. UWF partners with Pensacola’s Camellia Club and the UWF Retired Employees Association to tend the garden with its collection of 80 camellia varieties developed and registered by area hobbyists, along with camellias grown in Australia, Asia, Europe and the around the United States.

As you pass the John C. Pace Library, take a minute to marvel at Annin’s Cannon . It’s named in honor of Robert Annin, a UWF student who discovered the 18 th century garrison gun in 1970 and donated it to his school. Tradition holds that students who rub the cannon before an exam will pass with flying colors.

The Art Gallery is located inside the Center for Fine and Performing Arts on the campus of the University of West Florida.

The Art Gallery is located inside the Center for Fine and Performing Arts on the campus of the University of West Florida.

Area arts lovers know that there’s always something new to see at UWF’s Center for Fine & Performing Arts .  

The Art Gallery looks to the future by living in the moment, keeping its focus on current trends as it “seeks to challenge, stimulate and engage students and the greater public through direct interaction with works of contemporary art.” TAG’s revolving exhibitions highlight “innovative regional, national, and international artists and artwork [and] seek to promote contemporary critical thinking and cultural inspiration ....” 

Smell the greasepaint and hear the crowd roar in the traditional proscenium Mainstage Theatre and the Studio Theater , which provides for flexible seating. UWF’s thespians take full advantage of both intimate settings, staging new productions of favorite old works, and adventurous material rarely performed in student theater.

Music students and faculty welcome the public to UWF’s 309-seat Music Hall more than 75 times a year for free performances by individuals and ensembles. Ticket prices are modest for shows by touring professionals, who enjoy having eye contact with appreciative audiences.

The Argonauts have a reputation for hospitality.  The campus trolley runs six days a week when school is in session, and there’s no charge to use it. The university president and the student government president hold regular open office hours. 

And “Argie the Argonaut” wants you to know that he’s not one of those stuck-up mascots you only see at a distance on game days. If you bump in to him on campus, he’d love to have a picture with you.

When you go… University of West Florida 11000 University Pkwy Pensacola, Fla 32514 (850) 474-2000

places to remember

Beach at Pensacola Still

Pensacola Beach

a group of wooden planks strung together to form a fence in the sand at johnson beach

Perdido Key

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Outdoor Gulf Coast of Northwest Florida

Pensacola's Guide To The Outdoors

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UWF Nature Trails And More To Explore

Young Naturalists

Our mission was completed successfully. We had a nice time together in the great outdoors while getting exercise and we even learned a few things. After the nature walk we spent some time skateboarding before heading home.

There is so much to do at UWF for outdoor fun and it is centrally located for most people in Pensacola. The landscape is too beautiful not to enjoy time there. Whether you’re a student, a local or a vacationer, there are many activities from which you can choose. Here’s a list of activities to help get you motivated.

Whatever you decide to do, download the UWF Trail Maps for easy navigation and have a great time!

Trail Running

The cross country trail is near the multipurpose field on Campus Lane. There’s nothing like having a huge deer stand centered on the trail staring at you to wake you up on a morning run. That actually happened once. We also saw deer another time on the same trail while out geocaching with the family. Mostly you’ll hear lots of squirrels and birds and have a peaceful time.

Trail Biking

You can get to the bike trails off of the boardwalk for some moderate terrain riding.

Walking/Hiking/Birding

The whole campus is worth exploring. Walk the sidewalks on the weekend that meander through a variety of trees, shrubbery and flowers. Hike any of the wooded trails. Spend a morning bird watching and give yourself time for contemplation before getting back to the busyness of life.

There are geocaches all over campus. We’ve found a few geocaches during the day and even one night cache with friends.

Canoeing/Kayaking/SUP

Canoes are available to students for rental or bring your own kayak or stand up paddleboard and paddle through the marshes.

Weekend Skateboarding

There aren’t any signs and there are few people on campus during the weekend, so we take our kids and our longboard down the smooth, hilly sidewalks.

uwf trips

More about UWF hiking and biking trails

  • UWF Boardwalk trail map
  • Greenbrier Trailhead
  • Taking kids exploring
  • UWF Blue Trail
  • Photos of Thompson Bayou

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Trails in University of West Florida, Florida, United States 33518562 | AllTrails.com

Best Trails in University of West Florida

Map of trails in University of West Florida, Florida

Top trails (4)

  • UWF Edward Ball Natural Trail and Blue Loop Moderate • 4.5 ( 719 ) #1 - UWF Edward Ball Natural Trail and Blue Loop University of West Florida Length: 2.9 mi • Est. 1h 0m This route begins behind the Anthropology and Environmental Science building and leads to the Edward Ball Nature Trail. After crossing the river, the trail connects to the blue loop, which is intended for multi-use purposes such as biking and horseback riding. Overall, this is a peaceful and shaded route closeby to campus.
  • UWF Pate Red and Blue Loop Moderate • 4.5 ( 540 ) #2 - UWF Pate Red and Blue Loop University of West Florida Length: 11.4 mi • Est. 3h 58m The UWF West Campus Trails are a series of mountain biking, hiking, and equestrian trails located on the University of West Florida's nature preserve in north Pensacola FL. While these trails are primarily suited for mountain bikers ranging from beginners to intermediates, this trail accommodates hikers as well. For more information about these trails, please visit https://uwf.edu/offices/recreation-and-sports-services/facilities/uwf-trail-maps/
  • UWF West Games Trails Loop Easy • 4.4 ( 381 ) #3 - UWF West Games Trails Loop University of West Florida Length: 2.4 mi • Est. 46m This trail is intended to be multi-use and is shared by mountain bikers and hikers. The route is not well-marked and downloading the route ahead of time is suggested to help navigate the network of trails. It is mostly shaded in this area and makes for a beautiful and peaceful hike that is closeby to campus.
  • UWF XC Trails Moderate • 4.6 ( 243 ) #4 - UWF XC Trails University of West Florida Length: 1.9 mi • Est. 40m This trail is relatively easy with rolling hills, however, the trail can become muddy and challenging after heavy rainfall. The route is mostly shaded with a few sections that are exposed to the sun. There are numerous types of trees, mushrooms, insects, squirrels, turtles, and other wildlife that call this area their home.

Top national parks

Everglades National Park

Top state parks

Wekiwa Springs State Park

Frequently asked trail questions about University of West Florida

Where is the best place to hike in university of west florida.

According to users from AllTrails.com, the best place to hike in University of West Florida is UWF Edward Ball Natural Trail and Blue Loop , which has a 4.5 star rating from 719 reviews. This trail is 2.9 mi long with an elevation gain of 167 ft.

What is the longest trail in University of West Florida?

According to AllTrails.com, the longest trail in University of West Florida is UWF Pate Red and Blue Loop . This trail is estimated to be 11.4 mi long.

How many trails are in University of West Florida?

There are 4 trails in University of West Florida. These trails have an average 4.5-star rating from 1,883 AllTrails community reviews.

Which trail has the most elevation gain in University of West Florida?

If you're looking for elevation gain, University of West Florida has you covered. UWF Pate Red and Blue Loop boasts the most elevation gain with 698 ft of total ascent. The park's runner-up is UWF Edward Ball Natural Trail and Blue Loop , which will get you 167 ft of elevation gain.

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COMMENTS

  1. Trips & Events

    Trip Preparation. Please review the trip registration page and your trip's itinerary carefully for the pre-trip and trip meeting locations and to see if there are any special preparation instructions. Refund Policy. There is a 7% University fee that will be deducted from ALL personal refunds. Refund requests must be made before the deadline.

  2. Outdoor Adventures

    Outdoor Adventures. 850.474.2819. [email protected]. Being fit doesn't always mean hitting the weights or doing cardio every day. UWF Outdoor Adventures offers trips, clinics, disc golf, rock climbing, rental equipment and all things outdoor (and some indoor) to get you motivated, help you relax or to help you make time to hang out with ...

  3. Visit UWF

    Parking permits are required for students, faculty, staff and visitors. The Visitors Center is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. After hours, visitor parking permits may be obtained at the UWF Police Station (Building 94). UWF Visitors Center, Building 81, 850.474.3000. Find the visitors center.

  4. UWF Daily Campus Tours

    UWF Daily Campus Tours. To display and register for events, select an available date from the calendar. The University of West Florida is one of those places you've got to experience for yourself. Join a Student Admissions Representative (StAR) for an in person campus tour. Select a date and time from the options below to begin your registration!

  5. Campus Attractions at the University of West Florida

    By Florence Beth Snyder. The University of West Florida (UWF) in Pensacola began life in 1963 and wasted no time signaling its ambitions.. Inspired by Oliver Wendell Holmes, Sr.'s soaring poem, The Chambered Nautilus, founding UWF President Harold Bryan Crosby tapped the sea-dwelling mollusk for the school's official emblem.It was Crosby's way of encouraging students to take up the poem ...

  6. Campus Tours

    ADA Statement. The Office of Undergraduate Admissions is committed to providing an exceptional visit experience for every guest. To request specific accommodations for this event, please contact Jennifer Nagim at [email protected] or 850.474.3379. Pursuant to the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act, any person requiring special accommodations is requested to advise UWF by contacting ...

  7. UWF Nature Trails

    We got some new exploring gear for Christmas which included binoculars and field guides, so we headed out to the University of West Florida's nature trail boardwalk. The kids actually had the best time ever! They all enjoyed sharing the laminated field guides and even identified two types of mushrooms.

  8. Travel Opportunities

    Wander along winding canals and cruise on mountain-lined lakes as you take in the essence of Northern Italy. Relax during a leisurely 4-night stay on the shores of Lake Maggiore. Cruise the waters frequented by the rich and famous on Lake Como. Witness the sinking castle of Sirmione and settle in for a 3-night stay in Treviso, an ancient city ...

  9. Best Hikes and Trails in University of West Florida

    Where is the best place to hike in University of West Florida? According to users from AllTrails.com, the best place to hike in University of West Florida is UWF Edward Ball Natural Trail and Blue Loop, which has a 4.5 star rating from 704 reviews. This trail is 2.9 mi long with an elevation gain of 167 ft.

  10. Visit & Events

    ADA Statement. The Office of Undergraduate Admissions is committed to providing an exceptional visit experience for every guest. To request specific accommodations for this event, please contact Jennifer Nagim at [email protected] or 850.474.3379. Pursuant to the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act, any person requiring special accommodations is requested to advise UWF by contacting ...

  11. MyUWF

    <link rel="stylesheet" href="assets/styles/loading.css"> <link rel="stylesheet" href="styles.3c6f9a0042af5362.css"> <iframe src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/ns ...

  12. Recreation and Wellness

    Recreation's role is to advance UWF's mission, vision and priorities by providing diverse learning and developmental opportunities through experiences emphasizing lifelong wellness. Vision Statement

  13. Explore UWF

    ADA Statement. The Office of Undergraduate Admissions is committed to providing an exceptional visit experience for every guest. To request specific accommodations for this event, please contact Jennifer Nagim at [email protected] or 850.474.3379. Pursuant to the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act, any person requiring special accommodations is requested to advise UWF by contacting ...

  14. UWF Trail Maps

    The UWF Staff LEAD program members of 2014 - 2015 chose to create a LEAD trail (1.6 miles) that anyone can visit to take steps toward being a leader. In this Pensacola main campus mapped route, UWF students, faculty, staff or any visitor or member of the community can join the path of success.

  15. UWF Travel

    UWF Travel. Traveling while employed by UWF is subject to University, State, and federal guidelines. This page is designed to help you navigate the process. To ensure adequate time for the required reviews, employees should initiate the steps below at least six weeks before the planned travel and prior to finalizing any travel reservations.

  16. Study Abroad

    The University of West Florida (UWF), is committed to safeguarding the privacy of personal data. UWF is subject to the European Union General Data Protection Act (GDPR) if data is provided from a location in the European Union. For more information on whether the GDPR applies to your personal data, please visit the EUGDPR website.

  17. Home

    The University of West Florida has joined the eighth cohort of NASPA's Culture of Respect Collective. The two-year program guides colleges and universities that have committed to ending sexual violence through an evaluation and action-planning framework that will further bolster response and prevention initiatives on campus. UWF joins a group ...

  18. Summer

    Advance your education with UWF this summer. UWF Summer provides a unique opportunity for you to build a schedule that's entirely your own and complete your coursework from a convenient location. Summer terms begin May 15, June 20, June 26 and June 28. Apply to UWF.

  19. Explore Camps

    UWF Explore Camps is back with all new LEGO® Education SPIKE™ activities for our 2024 Spring Break camp! Our campers will be exploring the world of robotics by building and programming amusement park rides, carnival games, motorized cars and even more fun. Dates: March 25-29, 2024. Schedule: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Extended care not available.

  20. Admissions

    The University of West Florida offers plenty of room to explore. Our 1,600-acre campus is only a short drive from beautiful beaches and downtown Pensacola. Choose from more than 110 undergraduate and graduate programs and study what sparks your passion. Find your niche through any of our 130+ registered student organizations and 15 athletic ...

  21. Travel

    Avis or Budget is the preferred vendor for UWF travelers in need of rental vehicles. Meals, Per Diem, and Mileage. Meal Rates are $6, $11, and $19. Per Diem for meals and hotel is $80. The Mileage Rate is 44.5 cents per mile. Prohibited Travel. Per FL Statute 112.061 (3) (e), University travel is prohibited to countries listed as a state ...

  22. Alumni Relations

    The University of West Florida's fifth annual Day of Giving raised $218,999.33 and connected more than 1,380 donors from around the world in just 24 hours, resulting in a record-breaking online fundraising initiative for the University. Alumni, students, parents, faculty, staff and friends chose from more than 80 funds to support on April 20.

  23. Fraternity and Sorority Life

    UWF offers an inclusive fraternity and sorority life community consisting of 16 active chapters and 500+ members. Joining a values-based fraternity or sorority at UWF is a great way to enhance the student experience through life-long relationships, impactful perso nal development, opportunities for service and philanthropy efforts, and overall connectedness to the University.