Florida Hiking Trails

Return to Lettuce Lake Park

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It was just under a year ago when we first visited Lettuce Lake Conservation Park, which lies off I-75 in Tampa and just minutes from the University of South Florida campus. So we jumped at the chance to visit again on Sunday and we were not disappointed! One of the most visited parks in Hillsborough County, Lettuce Lake Park “lies in the natural floodplain of the Hillsborough River” and features a hardwood swamp forest that can be experienced via a 3,500-foot boardwalk and observation tower. During this outing, we saw two Florida alligators, a baby turtle and several bird species, including the white ibis. Entrance fee is $2 (cash only). Don’t miss it!

Heart of the Wilderness

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“Only by going alone in silence, without baggage, can one truly get into the heart of the wilderness. All other travel is mere dust and hotels and baggage and chatter.” – John Muir

“I thought of the wilderness we had left behind us … joyous in its plentitude and simplicity, perfect yet vulnerable, unaware of what is coming, defended by nothing, guarded by no one.” – Edward Abbey

“Failing to fetch me at first keep encouraged, missing me one place search another, I stop somewhere waiting for you.” – Walt Whitman

First Hike of 2021

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For my first hike of 2021, I headed out yesterday morning at about 7:30 AM to one of my old favorites – 240-acre Econ River Wilderness Area in Oviedo. Since it was New Year’s Day, the Seminole County nature preserve actually seemed somewhat crowded (and when I say “crowded” I counted about 10 other hearty souls who braved their New Year’s Eve hangovers for the opportunity to start 2021 right in the Great Outdoors!). I headed through the sandhill habitats and scenic pine flatwoods toward the amazing Econlockhatchee River, where for the first time I actually spotted a river otter playfully swimming along. Other wildlife that call Econ River Wilderness Area home include gopher tortoises and Sherman’s fox squirrels. If you knock out both the red and yellow trails, you can expect a nice 3-mile hike here. Unfortunately, spectacular natural preserves like Econ River Wilderness Area are continually under threat from greedy developers. Seminole County boasts some of the most amazing natural areas left in Central Florida, so we must remain vigilant and ensure that these few remaining treasures are preserved for future generations to enjoy. Econ River Wilderness Area is located at 3795 Old Lockwood Road. Check it out!

Top 10 Hikes in 2020

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Black Bear Wilderness Area, Sanford
Circle B Bar Reserve, Lakeland
Enchanted Forest Sanctuary, Titusville
Lake May Reserve, Eustis
Little Big Econ State Forest, Geneva
Oakland Nature Preserve, Oakland
Riverbend Park, Jupiter
Split Oak Forest, Orlando
Spring Hammock Preserve, Longwood
Withlacoochee River Park, Dade City

 

 

Colt Creek State Park

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Encompassing more than 5,000 acres, Colt Creek State Park within the Green Swamp just north of Lakeland features “large strands of vulnerable longleaf flatwoods, lakes and winding creeks, thick cypress domes and open vistas.” It is home to an abundance of wildlife such as white-tailed deer, American alligators, otters, gopher tortoises, Sherman’s fox squirrels, bobcats, bald eagles and wading birds. Florida black bears have been spotted here as well. Highlights of Colt Creek State Park include 15 miles of multiuse trails and the short but scenic 0.25-mile Mac Lake Nature Trail, as well as pavilions, picnic tables, a 75-foot dock, canoe and kayak rentals, and campsites for tent/RV, primitive and group camping. A relatively new addition to the Florida State Park System, Colt Creek State Park first opened in 2007. 

 

One Small Place

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“I do not understand how anyone can live without one small place of enchantment to turn to.”
― Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings

Why spend your time waiting in long lines at some overpriced theme park hoping for some “processed fun” when you can avoid the crowds, step outside and experience “authentic Florida” surrounded by amazing wildlife? Now is the perfect time to distance yourself from the crowd, stay safe and enjoy the great outdoors! So, what are you waiting for? Hit the trail!

Tucker Ranch Revisited

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Looking to social distance during the holidays and enjoy some quality time in the great outdoors? Look no farther than Tucker Ranch Recreation and Nature Complex in Winter Garden. Ideally located off Avalon Road, Tucker Ranch is a true hidden treasure in Central Florida. Grab a picnic lunch and take a hike while enjoying the natural beauty of the surroundings. Leashed dogs are allowed. So, what are you waiting for? Get up from the couch, turn off the TV and get some fresh air at Tucker Ranch!

Wandering Lake Lotus Park

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I spent a perfect Friday afternoon strolling the scenic boardwalks of Lake Lotus Park in Altamonte Springs and enjoying some rare Florida fall colors. I didn’t view much wildlife, but – just as I was wrapping up my hike – I spotted this beautiful alligator grabbing some sun on a log along the creek. What a treat!

Saturday Morning at Gemini Springs

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One of my favorite places to wander in Central Florida, 212-acre Gemini Springs Park is located in the charming town of DeBary. It’s peaceful (no swimming in the springs allowed), there are some scenic hiking trails and you will almost always get a glimpse of wildlife here.