When most people think of Orlando, they picture the magic of Disney castles, Universal’s thrilling rides, or the bustle of International Drive. For years, I thought the same. It wasn’t until I had exhausted my energy hopping between roller coasters and fireworks shows that I started to wonder: what lies beyond the neon lights and resort hotels?
The answer came to me one morning when I decided to escape the concrete jungle and head into the green. Orlando, and Central Florida in general, is wrapped in a network of forests, wetlands, and nature preserves that few tourists take the time to explore. Over the years, I’ve slowly discovered this side of the city, one trail at a time. The deeper I hiked, the more I realized how Orlando is not just a playground for entertainment—it’s also a sanctuary for those of us who crave silence, fresh air, and the rhythm of nature.
In this article, I’ll share my experiences hiking in Orlando’s most beautiful forests and preserves. Each trail brought me a new perspective, whether it was spotting manatees grazing in a spring, watching an egret skim the water’s surface, or simply breathing in the pine-scented air while walking alone under Spanish moss. These hikes taught me to slow down and reconnect with the side of Florida that theme parks can never replicate.
So, lace up your hiking shoes, pack a reusable water bottle, and let me take you into the natural heart of Orlando.
1. Wekiwa Springs State Park – The Classic Escape
Location: 1800 Wekiwa Circle, Apopka, FL (just 30 minutes north of downtown Orlando)
The first time I stepped into Wekiwa Springs, I couldn’t believe I was still near Orlando. After weeks of navigating crowded sidewalks, stepping into a space filled with emerald-green water and towering trees felt like stumbling into another dimension.
Why I Love It
The park is famous for its natural spring, where the water stays a refreshing 72°F year-round. After a hot hike, plunging into that crystal-clear spring is one of the most invigorating things I’ve ever done. But what really makes Wekiwa special is the variety of hiking trails. There are more than 20 miles of paths here, winding through sandhills, pine flatwoods, and river hammocks.
On one hike, I followed the Wekiwa Springs Trail, about 5 miles long, and passed through shaded pine forests where the scent of resin hung in the air. I remember hearing the crunch of sand beneath my boots and spotting a family of deer grazing quietly. It was such a contrast to the sensory overload of Orlando’s city center.
Fees & Logistics
The entrance fee is \$6 per vehicle (up to 8 people), which feels almost comically cheap compared to theme park admission. Parking fills up quickly on weekends, so I recommend arriving early. I usually book my park entrance in advance through ReserveAmerica, which has become one of my favorite platforms for Florida state parks.
Tips
- Bring a swimsuit—you’ll want to swim after your hike.
- Pack bug spray, especially in summer. Florida mosquitoes are relentless.
- Don’t rush—this is a park you can spend a full day in.
2. Little Big Econ State Forest – Riverside Trails and Adventure
Location: 1350 Snow Hill Road, Geneva, FL (about 40 minutes from Orlando)
The name caught my attention the first time I read it: “Little Big Econ.” It sounded almost comical, but it turned out to be one of the most rewarding hikes I’ve ever had in Central Florida.
The Experience
The forest is named after the Econlockhatchee River, which winds dramatically through the landscape. Hiking here means you’re constantly flirting with river views—sometimes walking on high bluffs with sweeping panoramas, sometimes dropping down into swampy trails with tree roots crisscrossing beneath your feet.
My favorite trail is the Kolokee Loop Trail, about 5 miles long. On my first visit, I started late in the afternoon, and the golden sunlight filtering through the trees gave the whole forest a mystical glow. Along the way, I spotted otters splashing in the river and hawks circling overhead. There’s something raw and wild about this forest—it doesn’t feel manicured or touristy, just beautifully rugged.
Why It’s Special
The terrain here is more challenging than Wekiwa. Expect sandy patches, steep riverbanks, and occasional muddy spots. It’s the kind of hike that makes you feel accomplished when you finish, especially if you’re used to flat urban walks.
Fees & Access
Access is free, though parking can be \$2 at certain trailheads. I usually plan my trips here through AllTrails, which not only gives me trail maps but also real-time updates from other hikers.
Tips
- Wear sturdy shoes with good grip. The riverbank sections can be slippery.
- Carry at least two bottles of water per person—the humidity here is intense.
- Avoid starting too late in the day; it gets dark quickly under the canopy.
3. Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve – Orlando’s Hidden Gem
Location: 8777 Winter Garden Vineland Rd, Orlando, FL (near Walt Disney World)
This preserve shocked me the first time I visited. How could such a peaceful, wild place exist just minutes from the chaos of Disney’s Magic Kingdom?
The Vibe
The preserve is smaller compared to others, but it’s incredibly well-maintained and perfect for a half-day trip. The trails range from 0.5 to 3.6 miles, making it accessible for families or beginners. I remember walking the Pine Circle Trail and feeling like I had stepped into a hidden world where time slowed down. The boardwalks through the wetlands gave me a chance to pause and watch turtles basking on logs while herons stalked fish silently.
Wildlife Encounters
Once, while walking near the marsh, I saw a bald eagle swoop down for prey. It was such a reminder of how much wildlife thrives just outside Orlando’s theme park bubble.
Fees & Platforms
The preserve is free, which makes it a fantastic budget-friendly activity. I often suggest it to friends who want a break from the high price tags of Orlando attractions. Since no reservation is required, you can just show up, but I sometimes check reviews on TripAdvisor before heading there, just to see if certain trails are closed.
Tips
- Go early in the morning to avoid the Florida heat.
- Bring binoculars if you enjoy birdwatching—this is prime territory.
- Pair this hike with dinner nearby; I often book tables through OpenTable at restaurants in the Disney Springs area after my hike.
4. Black Bear Wilderness Loop Trail – A True Adventure
Location: 5298 Michigan Ave, Sanford, FL (about 50 minutes north of Orlando)
This trail isn’t for the faint of heart, but it’s one of the most rewarding hikes near Orlando. The first time I attempted the 7.1-mile loop, I underestimated both the distance and the ruggedness. By the time I finished, I was exhausted—but also exhilarated.
What Makes It Unique
The trail runs through swampy areas, boardwalks, and thick forest. It’s known for its wildlife, especially alligators and (yes) black bears. I didn’t spot a bear on my hike, but I did see plenty of alligators lounging in the water just a few feet away. It was both terrifying and incredible.
The atmosphere here is raw wilderness—you really feel like you’ve stepped into Florida as it was centuries ago.
Fees & Platforms
The preserve is free to enter, which is amazing considering the adventure it offers. Before going, I checked Florida Hikes, which has fantastic trail descriptions and conditions reports.
Tips
- Wear long pants—the trail can get overgrown, and mosquitoes are relentless.
- Carry snacks; this hike takes time, and there are no facilities once you start.
- Only attempt it if you’re reasonably fit. This isn’t a casual stroll.
5. Orlando Wetlands Park – A Photographer’s Paradise
Location: 25155 Wheeler Road, Christmas, FL (about 40 minutes east of Orlando)
I first visited Orlando Wetlands Park during bird migration season, and I’ve never forgotten it. Walking through this park feels less like a traditional hike and more like entering a living postcard.
The Landscape
The trails here weave around marshes, ponds, and canals. The sky feels endless, and the reflection of clouds on the still water makes for breathtaking views. The first time I visited, I carried my camera, and within minutes I had snapped shots of roseate spoonbills (pink birds that look like flying cotton candy), great blue herons, and even wild turkeys.
Hiking Options
There are more than 20 miles of trails, but most are flat and easy. I’ve done the 2.5-mile loop several times when I just want a short walk with plenty of wildlife.
Fees & Platforms
Entrance is free. I sometimes use TripAdvisor to check recent traveler photos before heading out—it’s inspiring to see what others have spotted.
Tips
- Bring a hat and sunscreen—the trails are mostly exposed, and the sun is brutal.
- Don’t forget binoculars if you love birdwatching.
- Sunrise and sunset hikes here are unforgettable.
Practical Planning for Hiking Orlando
Flights & Transportation
If you’re flying into Orlando, I recommend booking flights on Expedia or Google Flights. I often bundle my flight and rental car, which saves both time and money. Having a car is essential for these hikes—you won’t get to them on public transportation.
Hotels
For accommodations, I rotate between Hotels.com, Booking.com, and Expedia. If I know I’ll be out hiking all day, I usually book hotels with good pools so I can soak my tired legs afterward.
Dining
Nothing feels better after a long hike than a good meal. I use OpenTable to book restaurants in Orlando, especially near downtown or Disney Springs. Florida seafood is always my go-to after a sweaty day on the trails.
Tickets & Passes
For some parks and tours, I’ve used Viator and GetYourGuide. They’re especially useful if you want to add guided tours to your hiking trip, like kayaking with manatees in nearby springs.
Every time I step into Orlando’s forests and preserves, I’m reminded that this city is more than its theme parks. Walking through pine flatwoods, gliding along riverbanks, or plunging into cool springs, I’ve found moments of peace and discovery that stay with me long after the hike ends.
For me, hiking here isn’t just exercise—it’s a way of reconnecting with Florida’s raw, unfiltered beauty. It’s about the surprise of seeing a bald eagle soar, the laughter of stumbling through sandy trails, and the quiet satisfaction of watching the sun set over a wetland.
If you’re planning a trip to Orlando, give yourself at least one day to step outside the theme parks and into the forest. Trust me: the trails will tell you stories that no roller coaster ever could.
