Take a Hike Day is Nov. 17, and there are plenty of natural spaces to explore on foot in Central Florida, especially as temperatures dip and make outdoor adventures comfortable.
From state parks to wilderness areas and forests, there are public lands with trails for viewing scrubby flatwoods, native birds and the occasional bobcat or bear.
When hiking, always head out with a buddy, a plan, a map, bug repellent, sunscreen, a first-aid kit, a flashlight, snacks and plenty of water. And remember the basic principle of Leave No Trace: Take nothing but pictures, kill nothing but time and leave nothing but footprints.
Split Oak Forest
Osceola County’s Split Oak Forest has been the subject of an ongoing environmental battle between conservationists and supporters of a new toll road that would run through part of the forest. Recently, Orange County voters overwhelmingly approved a charter amendment aimed at protecting the forest.
The 2,000-acre tract of land, located about 40 minutes southeast of Orlando, contains a 200-year-old live oak that split down the middle and survived, the namesake of the forest. A 6.4-mile trail takes hikers around the perimeter of the preserve, but shorter trails are available while still taking visitors past the famous split oak. Restrooms aren’t available at the trailhead, but they are available at nearby Moss Park. Pets are not permitted.
Address: 12175 Clapp Simms Duda Rd. in Orlando
More information: myfwc.com
Orlando Wetlands Park
This city-managed park is actually located in Christmas, about 40 minutes east of Orlando, and features opportunities for photography, hiking, biking, horseback riding and wildlife viewing. The 1,650-acre swath of land looks pristine but was first created to provide advanced treatment of reclaimed wastewater. What was originally designed as an experiment has succeeded and transformed the land into a birding destination featuring more than 220 bird species and 63 butterfly species.
For hikers or cyclists, there are many routes and loops that can be created from the park’s trails. One birding loop is two miles, while another easy loop trail is 3.9 miles. Parking is available at the entrance of the park, which offers free admission. Motorized vehicles and pets are prohibited at Orlando Wetlands Park, but horses and bikes are welcome. Pets are not permitted.
Address: 25155 Wheeler Road in Christmas
More information: orlando.gov
Little Big Econ State Forest
Seminole County’s Little Big Econ State Forest spans more than 10,000 acres of Floridian wilderness near the Econlockhatchee River. Within the forest’s boundaries, recreationists can explore 12 miles of dedicated footpath on the Florida Trail, or hop on two wheels and explore miles of loops by mountain bike. Horseback riding and primitive camping are also available.
For hikers, loops ranging from 2.5 to more than 10 miles can be created through the biodiverse forest. Human visitors may spot deer, turkey, alligators, squirrels, gopher tortoises, bald eagles, sandhill cranes and more. The forest can be accessed from multiple trailheads. Leashed pets are allowed.
Address: 951 Barr Street in Oviedo or 2050 Snow Hill Rd. in Chuluota
More information: fdacs.gov
Black Bear Wilderness Area
Trails and boardwalks wind through 1,600 acres of wetland habitats near the St. Johns River. This Sanford-area public land is a prime spot for viewing white-tailed deer, swallow-tailed kite and the Florida black bear.
A 7.1-mile loop trail follows the St. Johns River, and it’s not an easy hike. Slippery and uneven terrain might force hikers to go slow or bring a hiking stick. It’s also not advisable to hike when the St. Johns River is in flood stage. An easier loop comes by following the two-mile Black Bear Wilderness Walk. This primitive site doesn’t include restrooms, but leashed pets are allowed.
Address: 5301 Michigan Ave. in Sanford
More information: seminolecountyfl.gov
Mead Botanical Gardens
Short on time but want to squeeze in a quick hike before work or on your lunch break? This 48-acre Winter Park oasis includes an amphitheater, butterfly garden, boardwalk and a diverse collection of Florida ecosystems. It’s a place that makes for an ideal mile-long stroll with friends, family or a leashed pet.
The trails are a great opportunity for bird watching, identifying plants or geocaching. Shaded benches and patches of grass can also provide places to sit for a bit or have a picnic. Admission is free and parking is available onsite for this urban escape.
Address: 1300 S Denning Drive in Winter Park
More information: meadgarden.org
Wekiwa Springs State Park
This serene state park is less than half an hour from downtown Orlando. Upon arrival, its soothing spring waters and luscious greenery will provide welcome relief after traveling there on I-4.
Trail options range in length from less than a mile to more than 13 miles. White-tailed deer, gopher tortoises, turkeys and a variety of birds can be seen from Wekiwa’s trails. Occasionally, a bobcat or Florida black bear can be spotted. The park is pet-friendly and offers swimming and kayaking options in addition to hiking trails. Admission is $6 per vehicle.
Address: 1800 Wekiwa Circle in Apopka
More information: floridastateparks.org
Do you have suggestions for my next destination or just want to get in touch? Find me on Twitter @PConnPie, Instagram @PConnPie or send me an email: pconnolly@orlandosentinel.com.
