By Kate Cohen
Before there were theme parks and outlet malls, subdivisions and cities, there was rugged nature and vibrant ecosystems throughout Florida. Today, if you know where to go, you can still find these untouched areas and experience the raw beauty of Orlando hiking trails.
You may find sparkling lakes and rivers teeming with wildlife, or expansive fields surrounded by evergreen Cypress. Depending on the time of year, you may experience beautiful, mild temperatures and clear blue skies or the cloying heat and humidity of a Florida summer with a thunderstorm rolling in on the horizon.
If you’re looking to lace up your hiking boots and explore Central Florida’s natural wonders, you’ll want to check out these amazing Orlando hiking trails.
Shingle Creek Trail
Shingle Creek Trail is a scenic, partially paved path that follows the winding water of Shingle Creek. In addition to being the namesake of our resort, the creek is a small waterway in Central Florida known for being the northernmost headwaters of the Everglades.
There are plans to expand the trail to over 32 miles, ultimately connecting Kissimmee and Wekiva Springs Park. Currently, there are 17 miles of usable trail, though it’s split into two sections (north and south) that aren’t yet connected and have several miles of distance in between them.
The trailhead closest to Rosen Shingle Creek is accessible from the property using the Destination Parkway entrance. On the trail, you’ll be able to enjoy vistas of beautiful blue water, towering green trees, and other local Floridian flora. Keep your eyes open for sightings of our native wildlife like alligators, deer, otters, and a variety of birds.
Hal Scott Regional Preserve and Park
The Hal Scott Regional Preserve and Park is an expanse of over 9,500 acres of protected land surrounding the Econlockhatchee River in eastern Orlando. This natural oasis is home to the threatened Red Cockaded Woodpecker and has become a popular area for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts alike.
The park has three trails: the White Trail, the Red Trail, and the Yellow Trail. The White Trail is the easiest of the three paths and can be hiked together with the Yellow Trail for a 10.6-mile journey. The Red Path is typically used by equestrians. Throughout your hike, you’ll see wetlands, dense forests, and sprawling prairies. If you’re lucky, you may encounter bald eagles, bobcats, river otters, and other native species.
Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve
The Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve is home to the Vera Carter Environmental Center, where you can explore educational exhibits and displays about our local environment. Their immersive trails have sprawling boardwalks that are perfect for taking in the surrounding wilderness. It’s a great spot for families to explore habitats like forests, swamps, and the lakeshore.
Experienced hikers can challenge themselves on the Palmetto Pass (not recommended for beginners or children.) The pass is a narrow, winding trail with a log bridge and low canopies of loblolly. It’s a fun excursion requiring extra skill – as long as it isn’t closed due to flooding.
Pine Island East Loop Trail
Just off the southern section of Shingle Creek Trail is the Pine Island East Loop Trail, a stretch of 3.5 miles of pathway that courses through woodlands and fields. Most of this Orlando hiking trail is unpaved, allowing you to immerse yourself into the vibrant Central Florida ecosystem. If you pay close enough attention, you just might see wildlife like alligators, turtles, roseate spoonbills, pelicans, and other critters.
There are several trailheads to access the Pine Island East Loop Trail, but it’s important to note that the most popular, behind Hunter Creek Middle School, is closed during school hours. Instead, you can enter from the Marriott Trail entrance if you desire a midweek daytime hike.
Lake Eola Loop
Okay, so it’s not the most untouched and organic Orlando hiking trail, but the Lake Eola Loop is quintessential Orlando, too. Nestled in the heart of downtown, surrounded by tall city buildings, is the beautiful Lake Eola.
The path itself is a little under a mile, and while it isn’t the most rigorous of trails, it’s certainly one of the most entertaining. You’ll be able to take in iconic sights like the Lake Eola Fountain and the rainbow-colored Walt Disney Amphitheater. The park is home to a variety of colorful and unusual birds, as well as dozens of the city’s feathered mascots – swans!
As you circle the lake, you’ll also get to take in the beauty of several sculptures and art installations, as well as a peaceful Chinese pagoda and a large, shady playground. Expect there to be plenty of foot traffic as it’s a busy central attraction, but this Orlando trail is a fun and unique way to stretch your legs and get a taste of the true Orlando.
Explore Orlando’s Best Hiking Trails While Staying at Rosen Shingle Creek
Rosen Shingle Creek’s location means you’re never too far from an incredible Orlando hiking trail. Our own 225-acre oasis is the perfect home-away-from-home for visitors who appreciate both proximity to Orlando’s rich natural habitats and the luxury of a resort (without any of the resort fees).
We look forward to welcoming you!
