Spending time in nature is great for your health. It’s been shown to improve mood and reduce stress, and the exercise you get from hiking is great for your heart. Fortunately, there’s no shortage of great hikes in Orlando to help you enjoy these benefits.
While Orlando is mostly suburban, a closer look reveals a wide range of nature preserves and trails to enjoy. These hikes in Orlando offer everything from shaded, peaceful pathways to rugged, remote treks through the fest.
Plan your next outdoor adventure with this list of 18 of the best hikes in Orlando!
1. Wekiwa Springs State Park
This park in Apopka is best known for its swimming and kayaking. But Wekiwa Springs State Park has miles of scenic trails to explore.
Wekiwa Springs offers a variety of trails ranging from 0.8–13.5 miles. The shortest trail starts at the spring and takes you from the wet hammock to the dry upland. The two longer trails wind through a variety of habitats. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to spot wildlife such as deer, turkeys, and alligators.
Locals love this park so much that lines were forming hours before the park opened, blocking the road and causing traffic issues. To address this issue, the park has introduced an online reservation system. So make sure to secure your spot before you visit.
There’s an entry fee of $6 per vehicle, which is a great deal compared to other Orlando attractions.
Address: 1800 Wekiwa Springs Road, Apopka, FL 32712
2. Black Bear Wilderness Area
The Black Bear Wilderness Area in Sanford is home to—you guessed it—black bears. One place you might catch a glimpse of them is along the park’s 7.1-mile trail.
The Black Bear Wilderness Loop Trail follows the St. Johns River. This trail provides stunning water views. You’ll pass through a variety of ecosystems during your hike, from marshes to hardwood forests.
This trail is one of the more remote hikes in Orlando, with uneven terrain and limited emergency access. Since it’s near the river, the trail may flood during Florida’s rainy season. So if you decide to hike it, make sure to stay aware of your surroundings.
Address: 5298 Michigan Avenue, Sanford, FL 32771
3. Little Big Econ State Forest
The Little Big Econ State Forest spans over 10,000 acres in the rural town of Geneva, about 35 minutes from Orlando. The forest features 11.8 miles of trails that offer scenic views of the Econlockhatchee River.
As part of the Florida National Scenic Trail, the park meanders through diverse ecosystems such as pine flatwoods and sandhill. You can also explore a 5.2-mile loop trail within the forest.
Little Big Econ State Forest is a stop on the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail. The trails here are a great spot for birdwatching, including bald eagles. You can even download a birding checklist to bring along on your hike.
With a day pass for all state forests priced at only $2, it’s worth the cost to check these trails out.
Address: 1350 Snow Hill Road, Geneva, FL 32732
4. Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve
Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve is one of the most peaceful free activities in Orlando. With over 3 miles of trails through wetlands and pine forests, it’s great for a peaceful hike.
The park offers opportunities to see native plants and animals. It includes a scenic boardwalk over marshlands and waterways. The trails can get muddy during the rainy season, so visit the park’s website for updates before you go.
Address: 8777 Winter Garden-Vineland Road, Orlando, FL 32836
5. Econ River Wilderness Area
If you’re in the mood for a relaxing hike through some unique landscapes, the Econ River Wilderness Area in Oviedo is the perfect place. This 240-acre preserve offers 3 miles of trails that wind through a variety of habitats, including river swamp and pine forest.
With a mix of shaded paths and open spaces, it’s a peaceful place to enjoy the outdoors and see the local wildlife. You might spot deer, owls, bobcats, and more.
Address: 3795 Old Lockwood Road, Oviedo, FL 32765
6. Lake Louisa State Park
About an hour outside of Orlando, in Clermont, you’ll find Lake Louisa State Park. This beautiful spot has three lakes, rolling hills, and over 20 miles of multi-use trails.
The park is great for hiking and wildlife watching, especially for spotting birds and deer. The entry fee is $5 per vehicle.
Quick story: When I was newer to hiking, a friend and I got completely lost on the trails here. We had to call a park ranger to rescue us, which was pretty embarrassing. So stay aware of your surroundings and avoid making our rookie mistake!
Address: 7305 U.S. Highway 27, Clermont, FL 34714
7. Disney Wilderness Preserve
The Disney Wilderness Preserve spans 3,500 acres of wetland within the Florida Everglades. While it’s not owned by Disney, the company played a key role in funding efforts at the preserve. Over 1,000 plant and animal species call this preserve home.
The hiking trails are located behind the welcome center. There are three loops to choose from: a 6.5-mile trail through the wetlands, a 2.5-mile trail with lake access, and a 0.5-mile trail for a shorter hike.
Address: 2700 Scrub Jay Trail, Kissimmee, FL 34759
8. Lake Mills Park
For one of the most peaceful hikes in Orlando, visit Lake Mills Park in rural Chuluota. This 50-acre park features unpaved trails that wind through the forest. It also has a paved trail and a boardwalk. I’ve hiked here with friends, and we enjoyed the tranquility of the park and the beauty of its trails.
Address: 1301 Tropical Avenue, Chuluota, FL 32766
9. Hal Scott Regional Preserve and Park
At Hal Scott Regional Preserve and Park, you can explore miles of scenic trails along the Econlockhatchee River. The trails include:
- White Blaze Trail, a 4.3-miles loop
- Yellow Blaze Trail, a 6.3 miles loop
- Red Blaze Trail, a 6.1-mile one-way trail
The trails offer plenty of opportunities to spot Florida wildlife, including bald eagles, river otters, and gopher tortoises.
Address: 5150 Dallas Boulevard, Orlando, FL 328339
10. Bear Creek Nature Trail
A friend of mine recommended Bear Creek Nature Trail, and I wish I’d known about this place sooner. Tucked away in suburban Winter Springs, this hidden gem lies between neighborhoods. It’s one of the most unexpected hikes in Orlando.
At the trailhead, you can go left or right. Either way, you’ll be treated to beautiful views of Bear Creek. If you go right, you’ll cross a couple of bridges along the way.
The trail is sandy, with some tree roots along the path, so be mindful of your step. It’s a bit off the beaten path and doesn’t take too long to hike. However, the lovely creek views and quiet trails make it worth the drive.
Address: 1555 Winter Springs Boulevard, Winter Springs, FL 32708
11. Orlando Wetlands
Located in the rural town of Christmas, the Orlando Wetlands play an important role in treating the local water supply. But this park also features a boardwalk and 18 miles of trails that take you through some beautiful Florida landscapes. You could easily spend the entire day here exploring.
The Orlando Wetlands are part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail. The park is home to over 200 bird species and numerous other animals. Just watch out—you might encounter some gators along the path!
If you’re interested in visiting, check out my in-depth guide to the Orlando Wetlands. My friend and I hiked some of the trails here and even had a couple of gator encounters.
Address: 25155 Wheeler Road, Christmas, FL 32709
12. Spring Hammock Preserve
If you’re looking for easy hikes in Orlando, Spring Hammock Preserve is a great choice. This preserve features a short, shaded trail that takes you through lush forests and wetlands.
This trail seems to be popular with families and dog walkers. The Cross Seminole bike trail also runs through here, so you might encounter some cyclists.
Note that there’s an educational center onsite, but it’s used for school groups. There are no public restrooms available here.
Address: 2985 Osprey Trail, Longwood, FL 32750
13. Lake Apopka
Lake Apopka boasts a variety of trails for seasoned hikers, including the Lake Apopka North Shore Trail and the Lake Apopka Loop Trail.
Both trails have abundant wildlife and many bird species. The North Shore Trail, in particular, is near the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive. This 11-mile route lets you observe all kinds of animals from the comfort of your car.
Address: Refer to the St. Johns River Water Management District website for trailhead information.
14. Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park
Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park offers a different experience from other hikes in Orlando. Instead of crossing through forests or swampland, the trails here lead you across a vast prairie filled with Florida wildlife.
You might spot the endangered Florida grasshopper sparrow or a bald eagle here. Or maybe you’ll glimpse a white-tailed deer or a rare butterfly among the wildflowers. Even Florida panthers and black bears have been seen in the park.
As Florida’s first designated Big Sky Park, it’s a great place to see the night sky without light pollution. You can make reservations to go stargazing here.
If you’re looking for a unique Florida hiking experience far from the hustle and bustle of Orlando, Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park is the place to go. Entry costs $4 per vehicle.
Address: 3311 Prairie Lakes Drive, Kenansville, FL 34739
15. Shingle Creek Regional Trail
For a blend of rural and urban landscapes, consider hiking the Shingle Creek Regional Trail. This trail stretches from Kissimmee Lakefront Park to Shingle Creek Regional Park. It has several stops along the way, including the Osceola County Pioneer Village and the historic Steffee Homestead.
The trail is part of a planned 32-mile path that will eventually connect Kissimmee to Wekiva Springs Park. A newer segment of the trail, running from Eagle Nest Park near the Mall at Millenia to Oak Ridge Road near the International Premium Outlets, is now open for hikers to enjoy.
Address: 925 S. Bass Road, Kissimmee, FL 34746
16. Split Oak Forest
The Split Oak Forest Wilderness Area has over 9 miles of trails that are perfect for wildlife spotting. As part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, the preserve is home to a variety of animals, including deer and wild turkey.
The area is currently at the center of controversy due to a proposed road construction project that would cut through the southern area of Split Oak Forest. In response, a group called Friends of Split Oak Forest has formed to raise awareness and protect the area.
Address: 12175 Clapp Simms Duda Road, Orlando, FL 32832
17. Black Hammock Wilderness Area
The Black Hammock Wilderness Area, located near Lake Jesup in Oviedo, features a 4.5-mile loop trail. As you hike, you’ll pass through diverse habitats. You may even catch sight of some local wildlife, including owls, deer, and bobcats.
18. Hontoon Island State Park
Accessible only by ferry, Hontoon Island State Park in DeLand offers unique hiking opportunities with beautiful views of the St. Johns River. The park’s trails are perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in nature.
The Hammock Hiking Nature Trail is the park’s most popular route. This 3-mile loop trail winds along the Hontoon Dead River and leads to a Native American mound. In addition to this main trail, the park offers other paths that guide hikers to notable landmarks, including a 300-year-old live oak tree.
Address: 2309 River Ridge Road, DeLand FL 32720
Conclusion: 18 of the Best Hikes in Orlando
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just want to enjoy the great outdoors, these 18 hikes in Orlando offer something for all skill levels. From peaceful nature trails to scenic river views, each trail provides a unique way to experience Central Florida’s natural beauty. So grab your hiking boots and get out there!