Eustis

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.

Hike #7: Hidden Waters Preserve, Eustis

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Hike #7, 52 Hike Challenge: Hidden Waters Preserve, Eustis. Nestled off Country Club Drive in Eustis (take East Crooked Lake Road off 441), Hidden Waters Preserve is a hidden gem encompassing 90 acres and featuring a sinkhole lake called Lake Alfred at its center. Visitors can experience six distinctive hiking trails: Lake Alfred Trail (0.6 mile), Hammock Trail (0.2 mile), Ravine Trail (0.4 mile), Prickly Pear Trail (0.3 mile), Longleaf Pine Trail (1.5 miles) and Gopher Tortoise Trail (0.2 mile). By the way, the Preserve was formerly known as the Eichelberger Sink. The elevation change from the edges of the Preserve to the bottom of the sink is 90 feet. Keep an eye out for gopher tortoises (didn’t see any this time out). Hidden Waters Preserve is open daily from 8 AM until sunset. Wildlife sightings: Cooper’s hawk, rabbit. Distance: 3.4 miles.