I’ve visited Palm Island Park in Mount Dora dozens of times and I see something new with each visit. That’s why I encourage you to explore both the great boardwalk and the short but scenic network of trails. Enjoy your hike!
Florida Hiking Trails
Hiking Gemini Springs Park
Gemini Springs Park in DeBary gets a lot of visitors, but the vast majority come here for fishing, picnics and the playground. However, if you head out on some of the scenic hiking trails, you can quickly leave the bustling world far behind and enjoy nature at your leisure!
Hiking Green Springs Park
Green Springs Park in Deltona features a series of very short but scenic hiking trails. I suggest parking at Green Springs Park and wandering around a little bit, and then hiking to nearby Thornby Park via the Spring-to-Spring Trail. It’s a great way to spend an early Saturday morning!
Red Barn at Tucker Ranch
I always enjoy an early morning hike at Tucker Ranch. If you get there right when it opens, you’ll typically have the place all to yourself. It’s quite scenic and I always take photos of the iconic red barn. Cool place!
Dueling Springs
Green Springs vs. Gemini Springs? Each is amazing in its own way. Best of all, they’re about five minutes away from each other! So, you can easily hike around both like I did on an early Saturday morning. What are you waiting for?
The Trails of Trout Lake
Trout Lake Nature Center in Eustis features a variety of short but diverse trails. It’s one of the best places to go in Central Florida if you’re seeking a casual and rewarding hike!
Palm Island Revisited
Palm Island Park and adjacent Grantham Pointe in Mount Dora never fail when it comes to viewing Florida wildlife in its natural habitat. If you’ve never been there, what are you waiting for?
The Trails at Hidden Waters
I did an early morning hike at Hidden Waters Preserve in Eustis on Memorial Day. Hidden Waters Preserve is one of my favorite hikes in Lake County for several reasons: 1) There’s actually some elevation here since it encompasses a sinkhole lake; 2) It’s shaded for the most part (unless you decide to hike the perimeter); 3) Many gopher tortoises live here (although I didn’t see any on this particular outing); 4) It’s easily accessible just off Highway 441; and 5) The hidden waters (if you can find them) are scenic and photo worthy. So, the next time you’re passing through Eustis with nothing to do, stop by Hidden Waters Preserve. You’ll be glad you did!
Venetian Gardens
Seeking some solitude for reflection? Head out to Venetian Gardens in Leesburg! This unique city park features seven small islands connected by bridges. It’s full of wildlife and scenic landscaping. We saw the purple gallinule above just wandering across one of the bridges. The Venetian Gardens overlook Lake Harris (you can even catch a glimpse of tiny Monkey Island in the distance). Check it out!
Boyd Hill Nature Preserve
We had a great time at Boyd Hill Nature Preserve in St. Petersburg yesterday. We started out at the Lake Maggiore Environmental Education Center and then took the Swamp Woodland trail and saw a small alligator getting some sun. We then headed out to Lake Maggiore Island. We stopped by Wax Myrtle Pond and checked out the Aviary – home to a bald eagle, red-shouldered hawk, owls, vultures and more. Very cool!
Wandering Florida 