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Post Date: Feb 15, 2022

9 Best Scenic Hiking Trails In and Around Orlando

9 Best Scenic Hiking Trails In and Around Orlando

Central Florida is world-famous for theme parks, golfing, and fine dining. However, many don’t know that it’s also home to some of the best outdoor trails and spaces you’ll find anywhere. Most locations offer trails appropriate for all fitness levels and include other activities such as canoeing, swimming, and unique nature observation.

Put on some comfortable outdoor gear, apply that all-important sunscreen, and head out to a beautiful Central Florida trail for a day with nature. Here are nine of the best that are only a short drive from Orlando.

1. Tibet-Butler Preserve

Address: 8777 Winter Garden-Vineland Rd, Orlando, FL

Visitors to Walt Disney World will find this to be a convenient spot for taking a break from the excitement of things Mickey. Between Lakes Tibet and Butler on the west side of Orlando, you can stroll 3.6 miles of well-groomed trails.

This haven brings a piece of wilderness into the urban area, where you can refresh your mind with soothing greenery.

The level land makes for easy hiking that’s appropriate for families with young children. Pine and cypress trees line the trails where you will have a chance to observe native bird species.

2. The Seminole-Wekiva Trail

Address: 436 near Laurel St., Altamonte Springs, FL

North of Orlando, the old rail line for the Orange Belt has been repurposed into a quiet, paved trail connecting Altamonte Springs, Sanford, and Mount Plymouth. The trails extend for over 13 miles, but you don't have to hike the entire length.

Large trees form a canopy over most of the trail that cuts behind residential and urban areas. This trail is a good choice if you have small kids in strollers.

3. Wekiwa Springs Hiking Trail

Address: 1800 Wekiwa Cir, Apopka, FL

When you're in the mood to leave the traffic of Orlando behind, head north to Wekiwa Springs State Park. During the summer, count on the shady trails to shield you from the sun. Boardwalks keep your feet dry as you wander the land amid many waterways.

With trails ranging in length from just under a mile to 13.5 miles, you'll have a good chance of seeing the abundant wildlife and a variety of plants.

4. Black Bear Wilderness Loop Trail

Address: 5298 Michigan Ave, Sanford, FL

No one can promise that you'll see a black bear, but the Black Bear Wilderness Area 23 miles north of Orlando is full of wild animals. Lucky visitors get glimpses of iconic Florida animals like:

  • Alligators
  • Lizards
  • Wild hogs
  • Deer
  • Raccoons

The 7.3 miles of trail provide a true haven from the stressors of the day. The location is quiet and the perfect place to connect with nature.

5. Disney Wilderness Preserve

Address: 2700 Scrub Jay Trail, Poinciana, FL

South of Orlando, the Disney Wilderness Preserve has 11,500 acres of land devoted to plants and animals in their natural state. You can take a 1-mile trail to Lake Russell or opt for a longer hike on a 2.5-mile loop.

Operated in cooperation with the Nature Conservancy, the area possesses tremendous biodiversity with over 1,000 species of plants and animals. The land is an integral part of the Greater Everglades watershed.

6. Black Hammock Trail

Address: 1571 E State Rd 434, Winter Springs, FL

This trail is part of the larger Cross Seminole Trail. The trailhead is located east of Orlando in Oviedo.

Tree canopies keep the sun off the trails that mostly follow the shore of Lake Jesup. A boardwalk covers a 4.5-mile lakeshore area, making it comfortable to walk even when the ground is wet.

7. Lake Apopka North Shore

Address: 24600 County Rd 448A, Mt Dora, FL

East of Orlando, Lake Apopka is home on its north side to a large nature preserve that includes the Lake Apopka Loop Trail. Future plans include extending the trail completely around the lake, but for now, you can enjoy 20 miles of trail with beautiful views.

There are four trailheads and bathroom facilities along the way. You’ll also find trails suitable for biking and horseback riding.

Bella Collina Walking and Biking Trails

8. Sabal Point Sanctuary

Address: 404 Wilderness Dr, Longwood, FL

Where the Wekiva and Little Wekiva Rivers meet, a forested floodplain fills 2,500 acres. Old logging rail lines have been converted to hiking trails.

This area is renowned for its seclusion and tranquility located north of the busy Orlando area. The fall season is the best time to visit due to colorful foliage on the hickory and maple trees. If you have time, take a side trail to Hog Island.

9. Green Mountain Scenic Overlook & Trailhead

Address: 20700 County Rd 455, Minneola, FL

West of Orlando, on the other side of Lake Apopka, you can go hiking in one of Florida's rare hilly areas. The slopes are not overly challenging, and switchbacks in the hillside create a gentler experience when hiking uphill or downhill.

Observation decks along the hiking trails provide places to pause and take in the gorgeous scenery of the lake and surrounding green countryside. Amenities include bathrooms and picnic tables.

A Hiking Trail of Your Own

Living in a private Florida community, like Bella Collina, puts you at the center of a landscape designed to keep you connected with nature. Our 1,900-acre private golf community includes its own private 350-acre Lake Siena. We're located next to Monteverde, nestled on the western shore of Lake Apopka.

Our quiet location surrounds all residents and guests in the area’s natural beauty. Our walking and biking trails let you soak up the soothing atmosphere any day of the year.

Everything about the Bella Collina community supports an active lifestyle. We have all of the amenities you would expect, along with a golf course designed by Sir Nick Faldo. And all of this is only 30 minutes from Orlando.

If you're looking for a place to stay and play in Florida or live year-round, contact us at Bella Collina.

Learn More About Bella Collina