Spring is in the air, right alongside the Florida heat. Now is the perfect time to get out and get active while the weather isn’t too warm and the flowers are starting to bloom. Whether you’re looking to bike, hike, or cast a line, Seminole County is home to trails built for every skill level and interest. Grab your gear, a companion, and some sunscreen–here’s your local hiking guide for the spring season.
LAKE LOTUS PARK
With playgrounds, picnic pavilions, fishing piers, and more, Lake Lotus Park has it all for an outing the whole family can enjoy. Start with a leisurely walk along the boardwalk and get familiar with all 150 acres of woods and wetlands. You’ll get up close and personal with a diverse, natural habitat full of flora and fauna–and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a gator or two sunbathing in the lake! There’s a lot to explore and even more to do when you touchdown at this park for the day. So, pack a lunch and your fishing gear, you’ll be sure to work up an appetite!
CROSS SEMINOLE TRAIL
Image by @tfdecot
Stretching across Oviedo, Winter Springs, and Lake Mary, this 23-mile trail is for those looking to go the distance. Make a day of it and explore beyond the Cross Seminole Trail—this hiking excursion connects to other trails, including the Seminole Wekiva Trail and Cady Way Trail. You’ll wind your way through everything from upscale communities to quaint, shaded walkways. Grab a friend or a pair of headphones and make the Cross Seminole Trail your getaway from reality–and be sure to pack a water bottle to quench your thirst along the way.
SEMINOLE WEKIVA TRAIL
Step away from the hustle and bustle of Central Florida and unwind at this suburban trail in Altamonte Springs. Start your voyage at the San Sebastian Prado trailhead and get lost in the 14 miles of pure bliss. You’ll find the perfect blend of picturesque views along your hike, from charming residential neighborhoods to beautiful tree canopies draped with Spanish moss. If you plan your hike just right, you might come across a live game at the Seminole County Softball Complex just two miles down the road. However, don’t stop there, because up ahead you’ll be welcomed with restaurants, shopping centers, and more at International Parkway. So, go ahead, reward yourself with a fresh smoothie from Currito or grab a beer at the brewery next door, you’ve earned it!
FLAGLER TRAIL
Image by @chooseloveart
The Flagler Trail was built in the 1950s on the now-abandoned tracks of the old Florida East Coast Railway. Take a stroll from Geneva to Chuluota through a 10-mile loop of mixed rugged terrain and gentle slopes. This beautiful path will lead you to sugar-sand walkways with waterside views. Grab a hat for some shade and enjoy the day on this Seminole County historic trail.
KEWANNEE TRAIL
Image by @thisfloridalife
If you’re running on a tight schedule, Kewannee Trail is the perfect path for a quick breath of fresh air. This 1.7-mile trail is paved for a smooth ride, so bring your bike, rollerblades, or skateboard, because there’s also a skateway! Cruise through the quiet neighborhoods of Maitland and make your way to Kewannee Park, where you’ll find a basketball court, playground, and a boardwalk leading to scenic native wetlands.
From Altamonte Springs to Lake Mary, to downtown Sanford, we invite you to explore Orlando North! Embark on a local adventure and embrace the warmth of the spring season and good company. All it takes is your favorite comfy pair of shoes to enjoy this type of outing in Central Florida!