








Spring Hammock Preserve has a new boardwalk that extends to Lake Jesup. It’s a nice way to reconnect in nature!









Spring Hammock Preserve has a new boardwalk that extends to Lake Jesup. It’s a nice way to reconnect in nature!
We spent a nice Sunday afternoon wandering around Lake Lotus Park in Altamonte Springs, followed by a visit to Lake Lily Park and then dinner at Athena Roasted Chicken (I ordered the vegetarian pita, which was amazing!).





Our Sunday late afternoon ritual is to head out to Oakland Nature Preserve and take a stroll along the scenic boardwalk to Lake Apopka (about 1.5 miles roundtrip). It’s a great way to get some fresh air and relieve stress before another daunting workweek!







This morning I returned to Orlando Wetlands Park in Christmas for the first time this year. It was sweltering hot and I saw a lot of birds, but only one gator. However, it was good to be back there! One of my favorite spots to view wildlife in Central Florida.









With apologies to Bill Bryson, I had a great hike at Econ River Wilderness Area in Oviedo yesterday. It was good to be back there! One of my favorite local hikes.







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!





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?




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!








Ideally located along the scenic St. Johns River, Lake Harney Wilderness Area is the perfect spot to get some exercise, view wildlife (I almost always see deer out here in the early morning) and social distance (I hardly ever run across anyone else out here during my hikes). There’s even an observation deck for a sweeping view of Lake Harney itself and the surrounding area. So, what are you waiting for? Mark Lake Harney Wilderness Area down on your calendar and get out in the great outdoors!
During your next visit to Tibet-Butler Preserve, don’t miss the tortoise habitats that surround the Vera Carter Environmental Center at the entrance. Here are just a few of the tortoises that call Tibet-Butler Preserve home.