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Orlando offers serene lakes, wildlife, and nature’s splendor. These five Orlando hiking trails are a must-explore when you visit Orlando, Florida.
Orlando might be famous for its theme parks, but its natural beauty often goes unnoticed. Tucked away from the bustling crowds and roller coasters, Orlando boasts hiking trails that let you experience Florida’s wild side. Discover hidden gems on these trails, where emerald forests, surprise animal sightings, and secluded hideaways await — memories that will stay with you forever.
Once you fly in and grab a car rental at Orlando Airport, you’re just a short drive away from these 5 incredible hiking adventures. Embark on a trail-blazing adventure across Florida’s majestic topography, where rugged pine forests lean in to swap stories with watery wetlands. Grab your water, lace up your shoes, and explore these top 5 Orlando hiking trails that will carve memories into your mind.
1. Shingle Creek Regional Park
Shingle Creek is a slice of paradise right in the city. Often called the headwaters of the Everglades, this park offers trails that wind through wetlands, forests, and lush greenery. You’ll likely spot herons, turtles, and maybe even an alligator or two as you explore. The trails are well-marked and range from easy to moderate, making this an excellent spot for beginners and experienced hikers.
Shingle Creek Regional Park. Photo by Norm Lane via iStock by Getty Images
2. Lake Louisa State Park
Just 30 minutes from Orlando, Lake Louisa State Park features a mix of hiking and multi-use trails. You’ll walk through rolling hills and pine flatwoods and along the shores of its namesake lake. Remember to pack your camera! This park offers some of the most stunning sunsets in Central Florida. With miles of trails to explore, you can spend hours here taking in the sights and sounds of nature.
Cypress trees line the shore of Lake Louisa in Lake Louisa State Park. Photo by John Twynam via iStock by Getty Images
3. Split Oak Forest Wildlife and Environmental Area
Split Oak Forest is your go-to spot if you’re craving a quieter trail with fewer crowds. With its roots sunk deep into the earth, a 200-year-old oak tree stands tall, its resilience and strength mirroring the trail that shares its name. Gopher tortoises roam free here, and sandhill cranes make their nests. It’s a true nature lover’s paradise. The great outdoors is calling! With nicely groomed trails, you can get your nature fix at a pace that suits you best.
4. Wekiwa Springs State Park
This park is a local favorite, and for good reason. Wekiwa Springs offers crystal-clear waters alongside trails that take you through diverse ecosystems, from hammocks to sandhills. The park has a relaxed vibe, making it ideal for families or casual hikers. Bonus: dip in the crystal-clear waters of Wekiwa Springs, a refreshing 72 degrees all year long, so don’t forget your swimsuit!
Wekiwa River slowly moving through Wekiwa Springs State Park in Opapka, near Orlando, Florida. Photo by Norm Lane via iStock by Getty Images
5. Black Bear Wilderness Loop Trail
For a bit more adventure, try the Black Bear Wilderness Loop. Every step of this demanding 1-mile trek is made worthwhile by the treasure trove of sights: water-logged expanses, sinuous canals, and a diverse array of creatures going about their business. Watch for a flash of feathers or fur as wild turkeys and even bobcats cross your path. Floridian trails weaving through nature’s splendor, sometimes solitary, often exhilarating.
Trails That Stay With You
Beyond its reputation as the theme park capital, Orlando unfolds as a passage to Florida’s untamed grandeur. If discovering serene lakes, experiencing the thrill of spotting wildlife, and immersing yourself in nature’s splendor are on your to-do list, then these five exceptional trails are a must-explore. Each trail offers a unique glimpse into Florida’s diverse ecosystems, making every visit a new adventure.
Whether you’re trekking through shaded forests or marveling at the wetlands, the connection to nature feels undeniable. These trails don’t just offer a hike — they create stories you’ll carry with you long after you’ve left. So why not set aside a day and see Orlando’s wild side for yourself?
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