Best Places to hike in Orlando, Florida
If you’re looking for a way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, consider going on a hike. Orlando is home to some great hiking trails that offer amazing views of the cityscape and natural surroundings. Therefore, hiking in Orlando will surely give you a great time.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, there’s a trail for you in Orlando. With Orlando’s mild climate, you can hike year-round. Plus, there are plenty of trails to choose from, so you can find one that suits your fitness level and interests.
There is no denying that hiking near Orlando will give you a much-needed break from the daily grind, so if you are looking for a way to get active and enjoy the great outdoors, put on your hiking shoes and explore one of Orlando’s many trails. You will surely find one that you love.
10 Hiking Trails in or Near Orlando
1. Shingle Creek Trail

Length of Trail: 2 miles
Cost: Free
Location: 13400 Town Loop Blvd Orlando, FL 32837
Phone: (407) 396-8644
Shingle Creek Trail in Orlando is a great place to hike and explore. The trail is two miles long and winds through the woods. There are plenty of trees and shade to keep you cool in the Florida heat. The trail is also home to many different kinds of birds, so bring your binoculars if you’re looking to do some bird watching. You can enjoy the trail free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to use the amenities at the park, such as the picnic tables or playground.
2. Pine Island East Loop Trail

Length of Trail: 3.4 miles
Cost: Free
Location: Middle St, Orlando, FL 32837
Phone: None
The Pine Island East Loop Trail is located in the Pine Island Conservation Area which is made up of 3,000 acres of land. The trail itself is a 3.4-mile loop that takes you through different ecosystems including wetlands, prairies, and forests. This is a great trail for bird watching as there are over 200 different species of birds that have been spotted in the area.
The trail is also open to dogs as long as they are on a leash. If you want to make the most out of your hike, make sure to bring along a pair of binoculars. This way, you can really take in all the different birds and wildlife that you see along the way.
3. Three Lakes Loop

Length of Trail: 5.3 miles
Cost: Free
Location: 10525 Clapp Simms Duda Rd, Orlando, FL 32832
Phone: 352-732-1225
The Three Lakes Loop is a beautiful hike that is perfect for those who want to enjoy nature without having to travel too far from the city. The trailhead is located in the Three Lakes Park, which is just a short drive from Orlando. This loop takes you through a variety of different landscapes, including forests, wetlands, and lakes. There are also a few boardwalks that take you through some of the wetland areas. This is a fairly easy hike, with only a few minor elevation changes. There are also a number of benches along the trail where you can take a break and enjoy the scenery.
The name of the trail comes from the three different lakes that you will pass along the way. Lake Rowena is the first. It’s known for its birdwatching, as there are a variety of different species that can be seen here. Lake Mary Jane is the second lake and is connected to Lake Rowena by a narrow channel. This lake is a popular spot for fishing, as there are a variety of different fish that can be found here. The final lake is Lake Rowena East, which is the largest of the three lakes. This lake is also connected to Lake Rowena by a channel.
After you have enjoyed all the lakeside views, the trail will take you back into the woods before looping back to the trailhead. This is a great hike for anyone who wants to enjoy nature without having to travel too far from the city. If you are looking for a beautiful place to take a hike, be sure to check out the Three Lakes Loop in Orlando.
4. Lake Lizzie Marsh Loop

Length of Trail: 1.7 miles
Cost: Free
Location: 6800-6808 Midland Dr, St Cloud, FL 34771
Phone: 407-742-0200
The Lake Lizzie Marsh Loop is a beautiful and serene trail that takes you through some of the most gorgeous scenery Orlando has to offer. You’ll start at Lake Lizzie, and then make your way through the marshy wetlands before arriving at Lake Tohopekaliga.
This is a great trail for nature lovers, as you’re likely to see all sorts of wildlife along the way. Keep your eyes peeled for birds, alligators, and other critters! If you want to stay safe, make sure to hike with a friend and keep an eye out for alligators. This way, you can enjoy the beauty of this trail without worry.
5. Orlando Urban Trail

Length of Trail: 3 miles
Cost: Free
Location: N Magnolia Ave, Orlando, FL 32804
Phone: None
The Orlando Urban Trail is a three-mile paved loop that connects many of downtown Orlando’s key sites and attractions. The trail is great for walking, running, or biking and makes for a leisurely way to see some of the city’s best sights. Highlights along the route include Lake Eola Park, Orlando City Hall, the Amway Center, and the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. The trail is also home to numerous public art installations, making it a great way to experience Orlando’s vibrant arts scene.
If you’re looking for a longer hike, the Orlando Urban Trail connects to a number of other trails in the area, including the Cady Way Trail and the Florida National Scenic Trail. Just make sure to bring your sunscreen and water, as there is little shade along the route.
6. Wekiwa Springs

Length of Trail: 0.9 to 8.3 miles
Cost: Free
Location: 1800 Wekiwa Circle, Apopka, FL 32712
Phone: 407-553-4383
Wekiwa Springs is a state park located in Apopka, Florida. The park is home to a variety of wildlife including alligators, turtles, snakes, and birds. Visitors can hike, bike, canoe, kayak, and swim in the spring-fed waters. Hiking in Wekiwa Springs is a great way to see some of Florida’s natural beauty. There are 13 miles of trails in the park, ranging from easy to difficult. Even beginners can enjoy hiking the 0.9-mile Wekiwa Springs Loop Trail. This trail takes you through a variety of habitats including sandhills, scrub, and dry prairies.
If you want more of a challenge, you can hike the 7.5-mile Florida Trail. This trail is for experienced hikers only and takes you through some of the most remote areas of the park. You’ll see a variety of wildlife on this trail, so be sure to bring your camera! Plus, don’t forget to pack plenty of water and snacks for the hike.
Wekiwa Springs State Park is a great place to hike, no matter your skill level. What are you waiting for? Grab your hiking boots and head to Wekiwa Springs!
7. Airport Lakes Trail

Length of Trail: 0.8 miles
Cost: Free
Location: 098 Shadowridge Dr, Orlando, FL 32812
Phone: 407-246-2283
The Airport Lakes Trail is located in the Lake Nona area of Orlando and is a great trail for those looking for a short and easy hike. The trail is well-marked and takes you through some beautiful scenery, including a few lakes. There are also some benches along the trail if you need to take a break.
The name of the trail comes from the fact that it used to be an old runway for the Orlando Executive Airport. The airport closed in 1981, and the land was turned into a park. These days, the trail is a popular spot for bird watching, as there are over 200 species of birds that have been spotted in the park.
8. Mead Botanical Gardens Loop
Length of Trail: 1 mile
Cost: Free
Location: 1300 S Denning Dr, Winter Park, FL 32789
Phone: 407-622-6323
The Mead Botanical Gardens Loop is one of the best hiking trails in Orlando for those who want to commune with nature without traveling too far from the city. The trailhead is located just a few minutes from downtown, and the scenic loop takes hikers through meadows and woods before looping back around to the starting point. Along the way, hikers will have the opportunity to spot different types of wildlife, including turtles, birds, and butterflies. The Mead Botanical Gardens Loop is a great option for those looking for an easy hike that still offers plenty of opportunities to appreciate the natural beauty of Orlando.
9. Lake Eola Park

Length of Trail: 1 mile
Cost: Free
Location: 512 E Washington St, Orlando, FL 32801
Phone: 407-246-4484
Lake Eola Park is one of the most popular places to visit in Orlando. The park is home to a variety of events throughout the year, including the Orlando Shakespeare Theater, movie nights, and concerts. The park also has a playground, picnic areas, and a walking trail that circles the lake. Lake Eola Park is a great place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the outdoors. Plus, you will surely get some great views of the skyline.
10. Lake Baldwin Park Loop

Length of Trail: 2.5 miles
Cost: Free
Location: 1825 Lake Baldwin Ln, Orlando, FL 32814
Phone: 407-599-3399
The Lake Baldwin Park Loop is one of the most popular hiking trails in Orlando. It’s an easy-to-follow trail that loops around the lake. There are also plenty of opportunities to see wildlife, as well as some great views of the city.
The Lake Baldwin Park Loop boasts of being one of the most scenic trails in Orlando. The trail is also great for bird watching, as there are many different species of birds that can be seen along the way. There are also several benches where you can take a break and enjoy the view.
A Guide To Hiking in Orlando
Before you commit to any outdoor activity, it’s important to be prepared. Hiking is no different. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or beginner, there are certain things you should always bring with you and keep in mind. Here are a few tips for hiking in Orlando:
- Wear Comfortable Clothes – One of the biggest mistakes that people make when they go hiking is wearing the wrong clothes. You want to be comfortable and avoid any chafing or blisters, so make sure to wear breathable, light-weight clothing. It’s also a good idea to layer your clothing, so you can adjust if the temperature changes.
- Bring Sunscreen – The sun can be incredibly intense, especially in the summer months. Make sure to put on sunscreen before you hike and reapply every few hours. It’s also a good idea to bring a hat or sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun.
- Bring Water and Snacks – It’s important to stay hydrated when you’re hiking, so make sure to bring plenty of water. It’s also a good idea to bring some snacks with you in case you get hungry. Granola bars, trail mix, and fruit are all great options.
- Mind Your Step – When you’re hiking, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and mind your step. There are often roots and rocks that can trip you up, so pay attention to where you’re walking. If you’re hiking in a group, it’s also important to be aware of the people around you, so you don’t accidentally kick a rock or branch and hit someone.
Orlando is a beautiful city with plenty of trails to explore. You can find easy, moderate, and difficult hikes depending on your level of experience. Be sure to wear the proper gear and bring plenty of water when you go! There are plenty of maps and resources available online to help you plan your hike. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, be sure to check out some of the great hiking trails Orlando has to offer.
Hiking in Orlando will surely give you an adventurous experience. With many trails to explore and things to see, you will never be bored while hiking in Orlando. What are you waiting for? Start planning your next hike in Orlando today!