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!).
Florida Hiking
Boardwalk
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!
Return to Orlando Wetlands
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.
A Walk in the Woods
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.
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!
Return to Lake Harney
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!
The Tortoises of Tibet-Butler Preserve
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.
Lake May Reserve, Eustis
A hidden treasure tucked along the back roads of Eustis, 136-acre Lake May Reserve is the perfect locale for a nice morning hike. It is open daily from dawn to dusk. You will view lots of butterflies and reindeer moss during your hike, as well as possibly a gopher tortoise or two and other Florida wildlife. Best of all, since the parking lot only holds a handful of cars, you should be able to distance rather well!
Wandering Florida 