To find top hiking trails in the Orlando area, start with reputable trail platforms like AllTrails and the Florida State Parks website, which allow you to filter by distance, difficulty, elevation, and user rating. Local organizations such as the Florida Trail Association and Orange County Parks & Recreation also publish detailed guides and maps for nearby preserves and multi-use trails. Additionally, check regional resources like the Central Florida Visitor’s Bureau, which often highlights well-maintained routes popular with both locals and visitors. Combining these online tools with recent user reviews and official park updates helps you identify current trail conditions and choose routes that match your experience level and time available.

Around Orlando, many hikers seek out parks and preserves that showcase Central Florida’s wetlands, forests, and lakes. Popular options include the Little Big Econ State Forest, known for riverside trails and shaded forest paths, and Wekiwa Springs State Park, which offers a mix of flat, sandy trails through pine flatwoods and sandhill habitats. The Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve is favored for its well-marked loop trails and boardwalks, while the Orlando Wetlands Park provides expansive views of marshes and abundant birdlife. For those willing to drive a bit farther, the Ocala National Forest offers more extensive trail systems with longer routes suited to full-day hikes.

To select a trail that suits your fitness level, review the listed distance, estimated hiking time, and difficulty rating before you go. In the Orlando area, most trails are relatively flat, but soft sand, heat, humidity, and exposure to the sun can make routes feel more challenging. Look for loop trails of two to four miles if you are a beginner or returning to hiking, and choose wider, well-marked paths within county or state parks. Intermediate hikers may opt for longer routes that incorporate varied terrain, such as riverside paths in Little Big Econ State Forest. Always check recent trail reports and note whether there are shaded sections, water access points, and clear wayfinding signage to help align the hike with your comfort level and endurance.

When hiking in and around Orlando, plan for heat, humidity, and sudden weather changes, especially during summer months. Start early in the day, carry more water than you think you will need, and wear sun protection such as a hat, sunscreen, and lightweight, breathable clothing. Many Central Florida trails pass near wetlands and bodies of water, so remain aware of wildlife, including alligators and snakes, and maintain a safe distance from the water’s edge. Stay on marked trails to avoid getting lost and to protect sensitive habitats, and check park websites for closures, flooding, or prescribed burns. It is also wise to let someone know your planned route and return time, carry a fully charged phone, and bring a basic first-aid kit and insect repellent.

Orlando offers many accessible trails suitable for families and beginners, often featuring shorter distances, clear signage, and flatter terrain. Locations such as Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve, Orlando Wetlands Park, and local county nature centers typically include loop trails under three miles, boardwalks over wetlands, and designated viewing areas that make it easy to shorten or extend your walk. Many of these sites provide trail maps at the entrance or visitor center, restrooms, and parking close to the trailheads. When hiking with children or new hikers, choose routes with shade, rest spots, and interesting natural features like observation towers or springs, and check in advance whether strollers or leashed pets are allowed.