When you take an Orlando vacation you'll have a vast number of excursions to choose from, whether its theme parks, restaurants, or shopping malls. But truly, one of the great opportunities is to take advantage of the proximity from your vacation rental home to Orlando's amazing nature trails.
Black Bear Wilderness Area
Black Bear Wilderness Area is approximately 24 miles from Orlando, and can be reached in about 30 minutes. One of the nicest hikes in this wilderness area is a two mile, round-trip hike to an overlook above the St. Johns River. Visitors can expect to see a variety of birds and wildlife while they walk. Many people find signs of bears, or when lucky enough, the black bears themselves.
Little Big Econ State Forest
The Econ State Forest is located 26.5 miles from Orlando. Guests follow trails located next to the Econlockhatchee River, which flows 17 miles through the forest. The forest provides protection for several natural communities, including wetlands, wet prairie, sandhill, scrub, and pine flatwoods. A great numbers of wildlife can be viewed from trails in this state forest, including alligators, gopher tortoises, bald eagles, cranes, deer, turkeys, and storks.
Spring Hammock Preserve
Spring Hammock Preserve is known as one of the most charming places to hike near Orlando. Just 18.5 miles away, the preserve features shade provided by cabbage palms, and huge cypresses. Spring Hammock Preserve has extensive trails available, and hikers can choose from paved to more nature inclusive walks. The preserve also features several animal and plant species that are rare or listed.
Orlando Wetlands Park
The Orlando Wetlands Park is just 20 miles from Orlando. It has been called the Granddaddy of all wetlands, with over 20 miles of roads and hiking trails that go alongside the water, or into the forest. The park is a major bird refuge, and hikers may also see alligators sunning themselves along the trail. The park features a four-mile loop trail that is great for all skill levels, and includes a lake.