Author: reweidman50

Hike #13: Lake May Reserve, Eustis

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Hike #13, 52 Hike Challenge: Lake May Reserve, Eustis. A hidden gem located in Eustis at 36300 County Road 44A, Lake May Reserve encompasses 136 acres “of xeric oak hammock and a mix of upland scrub pine and hardwood forested areas,” according to the official brochure. It was a pleasant stroll, except for a portion of the western side of the lake, where we encountered many immense spider webs along the trail. Overall, a very satisfactory experience! Plans are reportedly underway for the addition of picnic areas, a canoe launch and catch & release fishing at Lake May Reserve. Distance: 2.4 miles.

Big Tree Park, Longwood

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The National Champion Bald Cypress Tree known as “The Senator” stood majestically for 3,500 years (reaching 165 feet at its peak) until it was tragically destroyed by an arsonist in 2012. During a quick stroll up the boardwalk at Big Tree Park in Longwood, you can learn all about the fascinating history of this tree (President Calvin Coolidge visited the tree in 1929), view the burnt remains of the tree and view its huge companion, “Lady Liberty” (2,000 years old and rising 89 feet with a diameter of 10 feet!). Also check out the clone of The Senator (known as “The Phoenix”), which is located adjacent to the playground. Big Tree Park is part of Spring Hammock Preserve.

Hike #12: Hickory Point Recreational Park

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Hike #12, 52 Hike Challenge: Hickory Point Recreational Park, Tavares. Opened in 1992, Hickory Point lies adjacent to Little Lake Harris (off State Road 19). I wandered out to the fishing pier for a view of the lake and then took a stroll along the boardwalk and nature trail, looping around several times. It was early on a Sunday morning, so absolutely no one was around and even though the boardwalk lies next to a huge sand volleyball complex it definitely feels like you’re out in the middle of the wilderness. Very cool! Distance: 1.6 miles.

Lake Idamere Park, Tavares

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My goal this morning was to hike the two-mile nature trail at Lake Idamere Park in Tavares. However, after a short stroll I realized that much of the trail was flooded from the recent torrential rainstorms. Lake Idamere Park features shaded picnic areas, a playground, dog park and fishing pier. It was a really nice park (off State Road 19) and I will definitely be back soon!

 

 

The Blue Gator, Dunnellon

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Looking for an idea for a laid-back Central Florida day trip? Head to Rainbow Springs State Park in the morning followed by lunch at the nearby Blue Gator at Angler’s Resort in Dunnellon! Relax on the outdoor deck along the Withlacoochee River and enjoy an ice-cold beer with some steamed shrimp, raw oysters, chicken wings and smoked fish dip (click here for the full menu). Live music takes place here Thursday through Sunday evenings. Airboat tours and boat rentals are also available. The Blue Gator is located at 12189 South Williams Street in Dunnellon.

Hike #11: Rainbow Springs State Park

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Hike #11, 52 Hike Challenge: Rainbow Springs State Park, Dunnellon. We had an awesome time wandering around Rainbow Springs State Park yesterday.  One of Florida’s oldest tourist attractions, Rainbow Springs (formerly known as Blue Springs) once featured “underwater cruise boats,” a raft adventure, animal park, rodeo arena, swamp garden, Rainbow Queen Paddleboat and monorail. In addition, portions of the long-forgotten movie, Tarzan and the Brown Prince (1972) were filmed here. The attraction closed in 1974 and the state purchased Rainbow Springs in 1995. Today, the park offers swimming, canoe/kayak rentals, campground, picnic areas, butterfly garden, waterfalls and nature trails, as well as a concession stand and gift shop. Remnants of the old zoo can also be viewed near the butterfly garden. Rainbow Springs State Park is located three miles north of Dunnellon on U.S. 41. Distance: 1.2 miles.

Gulf Fritillary Butterfly, West Orange Trail

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“The Gulf fritillary, Agraulis vanillae (Linnaeus), is a brightly colored butterfly common across extreme southern portions of the United States. At home in most open, sunny habitats, it frequents roadsides, disturbed sites, fields, open woodlands, pastures, yards, and parks. It is a regular in most butterfly gardens, including those in more urban settings.” – University of Florida Entomology & Nematology Department

Hike #10: Gemini Springs Park, DeBary

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Hike #10, 52 Hike Challenge: Gemini Springs Park, DeBary. We had a nice stroll around 210-acre Gemini Springs Park this morning. The springs are actually closed to swimming due to high bacteria levels (but that makes the park all that more peaceful for those of us who just want to wander around and explore!). The park features a small campsite, fishing dock and playground, as well as several nature trails. Located at 37 Dirksen Drive (off U.S. 17/92), Gemini Springs Park is open daily from sunrise to sunset; admission is free. Wildlife sightings: American White Ibis (No. 5 on Birding Life List), Bobcat, Red-Shouldered Hawk (No. 6). Distance: 1.5 miles.

Hike #9: Econ River Wilderness Area

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Hike #9, 52 Hike Challenge: Econ River Wilderness Area. Surrounded by bland subdivisions on all sides in Oviedo (3795 Old Lockwood Road), the 240-acre Econ River Wilderness Area is a welcome oasis! I have to admit I got lost a few times (make sure to pick up a trail map at the entrance!) and some of the trail was flooded, but I eventually made it to the river. A very scenic and relaxing hike! Distance: 2.7 miles.

Frenchy’s Outpost Bar & Grill

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An “Open-Air Key West Style Restaurant,” Frenchy’s Outpost Bar & Grill lies just about 2 miles east of Honeymoon Island State Park, making it the ideal spot to grab some lunch and an ice-cold drink after a morning at the beach! I recommend the Caribbean Jerk Chicken Sandwich and the “Fresh Catch” Pretzel (see above). We were entertained by Glenn & Steel Drums during our meal. We’ll definitely be back!