They say that spending time in nature is like hitting the reset button on your soul. Whether that's true or not, it's just nice to get outside and away from a glowing screen. Here are 25 of our favorite places near Orlando for a quick jaunt in the jungle.
24 underrated hiking spots in the Orlando area
By Orlando Weekly Staff on Fri, Feb 26, 2016 at 8:42 pm
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Bear Creek Nature Trail
1535 Winter Springs Blvd., Winter Springs, FL 32708
It may be smaller than other trails, but it’s this very aspect, as well as the guiding light that is its loop shape, that makes this a perfect fit for the more inexperienced hikers out there. Follow along the creek for almost a mile for a free walk encompassing you in cypress, oaks and palms. If it’s been raining a lot lately, you might want to stay away; it’s host to a few spots that get muddy and flooded easily.
Photo via hrbvn/Instagram
1535 Winter Springs Blvd., Winter Springs, FL 32708
It may be smaller than other trails, but it’s this very aspect, as well as the guiding light that is its loop shape, that makes this a perfect fit for the more inexperienced hikers out there. Follow along the creek for almost a mile for a free walk encompassing you in cypress, oaks and palms. If it’s been raining a lot lately, you might want to stay away; it’s host to a few spots that get muddy and flooded easily.
Photo via hrbvn/Instagram
Florida Trail, Tosohatchee
3365 Taylor Creek Road, Christmas, FL 32709
Crossing the 28,000-acre Tosohatchee Reserve, this 10-mile trail allows hikers - and even dogs - to walk through one of Florida’s oldest slash pine forests. Hikers can also branch off on the side trails, the White and Yellow loops, if they’re looking for a weekend of backpacking. But be sure to make reservations in advance to have access to the campsites. To hike this linear trail, there is a fee of $3 per person.
Photo via arainaldi/Instagram
3365 Taylor Creek Road, Christmas, FL 32709
Crossing the 28,000-acre Tosohatchee Reserve, this 10-mile trail allows hikers - and even dogs - to walk through one of Florida’s oldest slash pine forests. Hikers can also branch off on the side trails, the White and Yellow loops, if they’re looking for a weekend of backpacking. But be sure to make reservations in advance to have access to the campsites. To hike this linear trail, there is a fee of $3 per person.
Photo via arainaldi/Instagram
Geneva Wilderness Area
3485 County Road 426, Geneva, FL 32732
Featuring prairie ponds and pine flatwoods, Geneva Wilderness Area has two main trails that hikers can travel upon, each winding their way through the park. Red diamonds can be seen along the Loop Trail, and yellow diamonds are connected to the Flagler Trail. This may be one of Florida’s shorter trails, being 1.8 miles long, but how can you say no to a free hike where you can explore various habitats?
Photo via tqr10/Instagram
3485 County Road 426, Geneva, FL 32732
Featuring prairie ponds and pine flatwoods, Geneva Wilderness Area has two main trails that hikers can travel upon, each winding their way through the park. Red diamonds can be seen along the Loop Trail, and yellow diamonds are connected to the Flagler Trail. This may be one of Florida’s shorter trails, being 1.8 miles long, but how can you say no to a free hike where you can explore various habitats?
Photo via tqr10/Instagram
Twin Oaks Conservation Area
2001 Macy Island Road, Kissimmee, FL 34744
Now serving as a 399-acre conservation area in Osceola County, this area consists of trails that are open for both hikers and equestrians. The 1.9-mile area also features a canoe launch, fishing pier and overnight campsite.
Photo via lorax89/Instagram
2001 Macy Island Road, Kissimmee, FL 34744
Now serving as a 399-acre conservation area in Osceola County, this area consists of trails that are open for both hikers and equestrians. The 1.9-mile area also features a canoe launch, fishing pier and overnight campsite.
Photo via lorax89/Instagram
Split Oak Forest WEA
Clapp Simms Duda Road, Orlando, FL 32832
This historic area is home to a live oak tree that is more than two centuries old and split down the middle, hence the name. Hikers can travel along the free, 7.8-mile open prairie, where there are lakes, ponds, oak hammocks and sandhill cranes.
Photo via paulstelling/Instagram
Clapp Simms Duda Road, Orlando, FL 32832
This historic area is home to a live oak tree that is more than two centuries old and split down the middle, hence the name. Hikers can travel along the free, 7.8-mile open prairie, where there are lakes, ponds, oak hammocks and sandhill cranes.
Photo via paulstelling/Instagram
Rock Springs Run Hiking Trail
30601 County Road 433, Sorrento, FL 32776
For the more enthusiastic hikers, this 12.3-mile trail consists of two loop trains with access to pine flatwoods and a scrub forest. This area protects more than 14,000 acres along the Wekiva River basin. Because the area is so large, it is highly suggested to bring a map or GPS so you don’t get lost. You can even bring along your leashed pup for some company.
Photo via daynaulmer/Instagram
30601 County Road 433, Sorrento, FL 32776
For the more enthusiastic hikers, this 12.3-mile trail consists of two loop trains with access to pine flatwoods and a scrub forest. This area protects more than 14,000 acres along the Wekiva River basin. Because the area is so large, it is highly suggested to bring a map or GPS so you don’t get lost. You can even bring along your leashed pup for some company.
Photo via daynaulmer/Instagram
Big Tree Park
761 General Hutchinson Parkway, Longwood, FL 32750
History has been growing here for a while now. The park was once known for being the home of The Senator, the oldest big cypress in the world until it was burned down by a fire in 2012, but visitors can still trek past many trees around the thousand-year mark. Make sure to stop by and see Lady Liberty, the most notable of these oldies on the free 0.3 trail, but get out before they lock the gates at sunset.
Photo via parrexcellence/Instagram
761 General Hutchinson Parkway, Longwood, FL 32750
History has been growing here for a while now. The park was once known for being the home of The Senator, the oldest big cypress in the world until it was burned down by a fire in 2012, but visitors can still trek past many trees around the thousand-year mark. Make sure to stop by and see Lady Liberty, the most notable of these oldies on the free 0.3 trail, but get out before they lock the gates at sunset.
Photo via parrexcellence/Instagram
Bill Frederick Park
3401 S. Hiawassee Road, Orlando, FL 32835
For just $2 per individual, you and your leashed pet can explore this local two-mile treat. Signs along your way will help you understand the foliage that has taken its hold on the park while a stop at a lake in the park will present you with a temporary marshy environment. If you want to hear the calming sounds of wildlife, however, add a nature album to your phone since the trail is right next to the hustle and bustle of the turnpike.
Photo via dangchains/Instagram
3401 S. Hiawassee Road, Orlando, FL 32835
For just $2 per individual, you and your leashed pet can explore this local two-mile treat. Signs along your way will help you understand the foliage that has taken its hold on the park while a stop at a lake in the park will present you with a temporary marshy environment. If you want to hear the calming sounds of wildlife, however, add a nature album to your phone since the trail is right next to the hustle and bustle of the turnpike.
Photo via dangchains/Instagram
Black Bear Wilderness Loop Trail
5298 Michigan Ave., Sanford, FL 32771
This one is for the more skilled nature lovers out there. Bathe yourself in some bug spray and grip on tight to your walking stick in preparation for this seven-mile adventure that’s sure to have you covered on leg day. If you decide to rest at one of the primitive campsites, be sure to have your bear bag or canister ready. Although dogs are allowed, it’s recommended that hikers leave them at home if they wish to see some of the boars, deer and, yes, bears that creep along the path.
Photo via raemariesart/Instagram
5298 Michigan Ave., Sanford, FL 32771
This one is for the more skilled nature lovers out there. Bathe yourself in some bug spray and grip on tight to your walking stick in preparation for this seven-mile adventure that’s sure to have you covered on leg day. If you decide to rest at one of the primitive campsites, be sure to have your bear bag or canister ready. Although dogs are allowed, it’s recommended that hikers leave them at home if they wish to see some of the boars, deer and, yes, bears that creep along the path.
Photo via raemariesart/Instagram
Black Hammock Wilderness Area
3276 Howard Ave., Oviedo, FL 32765
Located in the nostalgic folds of Old Florida, this trail immediately starts off with something a bit different than its competitors. Collect some seashells at the beginning of your free 4.5-mile hike and later cross onto the trail’s famous boardwalks that take you high above the ground for your bromeliad-viewing pleasure.
Photo via samantha_lena/Instagram
3276 Howard Ave., Oviedo, FL 32765
Located in the nostalgic folds of Old Florida, this trail immediately starts off with something a bit different than its competitors. Collect some seashells at the beginning of your free 4.5-mile hike and later cross onto the trail’s famous boardwalks that take you high above the ground for your bromeliad-viewing pleasure.
Photo via samantha_lena/Instagram
Florida Trail, Chuluota Wilderness to Joshua Creek
3895 Curryville Road, Oviedo, FL 32766
If walking on a decline gets your blood pumping, this newly built Florida Trail may have what you’re looking for. Habitats transition from high, dry scrub to pine forests to floodplains of Buncombe and Joshua creeks. If this 4.3-mile trail is hiked southbound, you will feel as if you are walking downhill. Along with your $2 entry fee, you may want to bring an overnight bag and visit the campsite for backpackers at Joshua Creek. And bring your dog along, too!
Photo via Andi P./Yelp
3895 Curryville Road, Oviedo, FL 32766
If walking on a decline gets your blood pumping, this newly built Florida Trail may have what you’re looking for. Habitats transition from high, dry scrub to pine forests to floodplains of Buncombe and Joshua creeks. If this 4.3-mile trail is hiked southbound, you will feel as if you are walking downhill. Along with your $2 entry fee, you may want to bring an overnight bag and visit the campsite for backpackers at Joshua Creek. And bring your dog along, too!
Photo via Andi P./Yelp
Disney Wilderness Preserve
2700 Scrub Jay Trail Kissimmee, FL 34759
The Mouse presents to you a “choose your own adventure” of sorts. Hikers can early on decide to exit onto the short 1-mile route or stretch out their day by continuing on the 2.5-mile trail. Bird enthusiasts who get there at the beginning of the day will find this to be an ideal location to spy on their feathered friends. Your time there is free, but they will hint-hint, nudge-nudge you for a $2 donation.
Photo via toddshultz/Instagram
2700 Scrub Jay Trail Kissimmee, FL 34759
The Mouse presents to you a “choose your own adventure” of sorts. Hikers can early on decide to exit onto the short 1-mile route or stretch out their day by continuing on the 2.5-mile trail. Bird enthusiasts who get there at the beginning of the day will find this to be an ideal location to spy on their feathered friends. Your time there is free, but they will hint-hint, nudge-nudge you for a $2 donation.
Photo via toddshultz/Instagram
Econ River Wilderness
3795 Old Lockwood Road, Oviedo, FL 32765
Not every trail is defined by a difficulty to get from Point A to Point B. This regularly maintained one will steer you through a variety of sights. Gaze at wildflowers, a bayhead swamp and the Econlockhatchee River for gratis for 3.2 miles. If you ruin your clothes on the hike, never fear; there’s some strip malls right around the corner.
Photo via robin_shoots/Instagram
3795 Old Lockwood Road, Oviedo, FL 32765
Not every trail is defined by a difficulty to get from Point A to Point B. This regularly maintained one will steer you through a variety of sights. Gaze at wildflowers, a bayhead swamp and the Econlockhatchee River for gratis for 3.2 miles. If you ruin your clothes on the hike, never fear; there’s some strip malls right around the corner.
Photo via robin_shoots/Instagram
Florida Trail, Bronson State Park
1350 Snow Hill Road, Geneva, FL 32732
Anyone deciding to take it slow on this 2.2-mile trail won’t be the only one for there are gopher tortoises aplenty sludging through the area. Before you head out with your $2 entry fee in hand, check the hunting schedule, which can limit the hiking and camping options. If you’re marching into this stop on the Florida Trail during said season, make sure to wear blaze orange so some hunter doesn’t pull a Dick Cheney on you.
Photo via aspilde02/Instagram
1350 Snow Hill Road, Geneva, FL 32732
Anyone deciding to take it slow on this 2.2-mile trail won’t be the only one for there are gopher tortoises aplenty sludging through the area. Before you head out with your $2 entry fee in hand, check the hunting schedule, which can limit the hiking and camping options. If you’re marching into this stop on the Florida Trail during said season, make sure to wear blaze orange so some hunter doesn’t pull a Dick Cheney on you.
Photo via aspilde02/Instagram
Florida Trail, Little Big Econ Forest
1350 Snow Hill Road, Geneva, FL 32732
You are guaranteed to break a sweat after hiking a solid 10-mile journey along the Econlockhatchee River, with more than 5,000 acres of uplands and cypress swamps. The trail is dog-friendly, so don’t hesitate to bring your pup along. If you’re looking for shorter hiking options, there are markers and bridges that can serve as turn-around points. Be careful not to plan a trip when it is raining or has recently rained. If the river is too high, the trail will flood and the hike should not be attempted. Although the hike is free, you have to pay a small parking fee at Barr Street trailhead.
Photo via smariepont/Instagram
1350 Snow Hill Road, Geneva, FL 32732
You are guaranteed to break a sweat after hiking a solid 10-mile journey along the Econlockhatchee River, with more than 5,000 acres of uplands and cypress swamps. The trail is dog-friendly, so don’t hesitate to bring your pup along. If you’re looking for shorter hiking options, there are markers and bridges that can serve as turn-around points. Be careful not to plan a trip when it is raining or has recently rained. If the river is too high, the trail will flood and the hike should not be attempted. Although the hike is free, you have to pay a small parking fee at Barr Street trailhead.
Photo via smariepont/Instagram
Kelly Park Loop Trail, Apopka
400 E Kelly Park Road, Apopka, FL 32712
While most people visit Kelly Park to go tubing down Rock Springs, there is also a 2.4-mile trail that hikers can enjoy as well. A fee of $3 per carload of one or two passengers, or $5 for three to eight passengers, is applied in order to hike the trails. Keep your eyes peeled in the wildlife preserve as you may see some deer or even bears.
Photo via albertotrekker/Instagram
400 E Kelly Park Road, Apopka, FL 32712
While most people visit Kelly Park to go tubing down Rock Springs, there is also a 2.4-mile trail that hikers can enjoy as well. A fee of $3 per carload of one or two passengers, or $5 for three to eight passengers, is applied in order to hike the trails. Keep your eyes peeled in the wildlife preserve as you may see some deer or even bears.
Photo via albertotrekker/Instagram
Florida Trail, Wheeler Road to Joshua Creek
Hatbill Road, Mims, FL 32754
With a $2-per-person fee at Joshua Creek Trailhead, this dog-friendly trail runs through Seminole Ranch and features ancient oaks and shaded hammocks. Hikers traveling along this 9.4-mile trail have plenty to view as the trail routes out of Orlando Wetlands Park and closer to the St. Johns River.
Photo via bradleyjames1991/Instagram
Hatbill Road, Mims, FL 32754
With a $2-per-person fee at Joshua Creek Trailhead, this dog-friendly trail runs through Seminole Ranch and features ancient oaks and shaded hammocks. Hikers traveling along this 9.4-mile trail have plenty to view as the trail routes out of Orlando Wetlands Park and closer to the St. Johns River.
Photo via bradleyjames1991/Instagram
Florida Trail, Mills Creek
1350 Snow Hill Road, Geneva, FL 32732
Surrounded by ferns, ancient oaks, Spanish moss and bayhead swamps, this free 2-mile hike may take longer than usual as you find yourself stopping to admire its beauty. Don’t get too caught up in the foliage, though. The linear hike can be quite slippery and requires concentration as you cross certain paths. This slower, more relaxing hike is dog-friendly and also features a designated campsite and a picnic area with benches, so you can truly enjoy the beauty of nature.
Photo via chasing_wild/Instagram
1350 Snow Hill Road, Geneva, FL 32732
Surrounded by ferns, ancient oaks, Spanish moss and bayhead swamps, this free 2-mile hike may take longer than usual as you find yourself stopping to admire its beauty. Don’t get too caught up in the foliage, though. The linear hike can be quite slippery and requires concentration as you cross certain paths. This slower, more relaxing hike is dog-friendly and also features a designated campsite and a picnic area with benches, so you can truly enjoy the beauty of nature.
Photo via chasing_wild/Instagram
Wekiwa Springs Hiking Trail
1800 Wekiwa Circle, Apopka, FL 32712
This 10.2-mile trail is open to hikers, dogs, off-road cyclists and equestrians with a state park entrance fee. Wekiwa Springs is one of Florida’s busiest and most popular state parks, so be prepared to meet some other hikers along the way.
Photo via maximillian_ortega/Instagram
1800 Wekiwa Circle, Apopka, FL 32712
This 10.2-mile trail is open to hikers, dogs, off-road cyclists and equestrians with a state park entrance fee. Wekiwa Springs is one of Florida’s busiest and most popular state parks, so be prepared to meet some other hikers along the way.
Photo via maximillian_ortega/Instagram
Lake Mills Park
1301 Tropical Ave., Chuluota, FL 32766
You may be tempted to get out your phone and take some Instagram-worthy photos, but try your best to enjoy the park’s beauty without the distraction of technology. Lake Mills Park is only 0.8 miles long, but hikers can bring along their pooch and view all of the park’s beauty for free: tall cypresses, oaks and a lakefront for fishing or kayaking.
Photo via nicktasmic/Instagram
1301 Tropical Ave., Chuluota, FL 32766
You may be tempted to get out your phone and take some Instagram-worthy photos, but try your best to enjoy the park’s beauty without the distraction of technology. Lake Mills Park is only 0.8 miles long, but hikers can bring along their pooch and view all of the park’s beauty for free: tall cypresses, oaks and a lakefront for fishing or kayaking.
Photo via nicktasmic/Instagram
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