Hike #28, 52 Hike Challenge: Ferndale Preserve, Ferndale. Nestled on the western shore of Lake Apopka, Ferndale Preserve lies along the Green Mountain Scenic Byway just north of Montverde. I arrived early on Thanksgiving morning, so I had the preserve to myself. The hiking trail at Ferndale Preserve is unique since there is a significant elevation change (significant for Florida that is!) with a high point of 162 feet above sea level. I saw a lot of birds, most of which I could not identify. Once I got near Lake Apopka, I heard a lot of commotion in the brush (including a loud thumping noise). Thinking of the presence of gators of course, I picked up my speed significantly. When I headed back to the car, I noticed this warning on the trail map: “TRAIL CLOSED – NESTING GATORS – DANGER!” Since I believe that gator nesting season is in the summer, maybe this was just an old warning that hadn’t been taken down. But still, it makes you wonder, doesn’t it? Distance: 2.1 miles.