Lake Apopka

Hike #40: Lake Apopka Loop Trail

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Hike #40: 52 Hike Challenge: Lake Apopka Loop Trail. If you’re into birding (and alligators!), you MUST take a hike along the Lake Apopka Loop Trail (or at least plan an outing to the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive). More than 150 species of birds reportedly flock to Lake Apopka during the winter months. Encompassing 30,800 acres (making it the fourth largest lake in Florida), Lake Apopka was targeted for cleanup under the Surface Water Improvement and Management Act of 1987. I reached the Lake Apopka Loop Trail from the Magnolia Park Trailhead, although it also can be accessed from the Clay Island Trailhead, Green Mountain Scenic Overlook and Trailhead, North Shore Trailhead and Wildlife Drive entrance (2850 Lust Road). I saw plenty of birds, but no alligators this time out (perhaps due to it being a rather overcast day). Distance: 2.5 miles.

Hike #28: Ferndale Preserve

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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.