If you take a short stroll from bustling downtown Mount Dora, you can immerse yourself in wildlife at Palm Island Park and adjacent Grantham Pointe, both of which overlook scenic Lake Dora. I wandered around both spots yesterday right after an afternoon storm and had the place to myself. Enjoy your hike!
Mount Dora
Lake Gertrude
We took a nice stroll along the scenic Lake Gertrude Walkway in Mount Dora yesterday. It’s mostly shaded, so it’s not too unbearable, even on a sweltering summer day!
The Trails of Palm Island
I’ve visited Palm Island Park in Mount Dora dozens of times and I see something new with each visit. That’s why I encourage you to explore both the great boardwalk and the short but scenic network of trails. Enjoy your hike!
Port of Mount Dora
Yes, there really is a Port of Mount Dora and it’s usually bustling with activity! It features an iconic red and white striped lighthouse that’s said to be one of only three inland lighthouses in Florida. Take a nice stroll and enjoy scenic views of Lake Dora and Palm Island Park. Oh yeah, the Port of Mount Dora sign features a great quote attributed to Mark Twain. Check it out!
Palm Island Revisited
Palm Island Park and adjacent Grantham Pointe in Mount Dora never fail when it comes to viewing Florida wildlife in its natural habitat. If you’ve never been there, what are you waiting for?
Tony’s Chowder House
We finally made it to Tony’s Chowder House in downtown Mount Dora last Saturday. Great food and service! I recommend the award-winning clam chowder and the blackened fish sandwich. We’ll definitely be back soon!
Wandering Palm Island Park
Just about every time I get to Mount Dora, I make sure to stop by Palm Island Park for a quick stroll on the scenic boardwalk. I always manage to view something different that makes the stroll worthwhile. Yesterday, I saw a bunch of black vultures just hanging out on a fallen tree. If you’ve never been to Palm Island Park, I urge you to make the trip when you get a chance. Highly recommended!
Trimble Park, Mount Dora
“I took a walk in the woods and came out taller than the trees.”
– Henry David Thoreau
Hike #3: Palm Island Park
Hike #3, 52 Hike Challenge: Palm Island Park, Mount Dora. A true hidden gem in Mount Dora just south of the downtown area, eight-acre Palm Island Park is located on Lake Dora and features a boardwalk, hiking trails and picnic pavilions. Alligators are abundant (although I did not see any during this visit). Distance: 1.0 mile.
Mount Dora
“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”
Wandering Florida 