Local's Guide to Hiking in Orlando: 8 Trails to Escape the City

Coined for captivating Universal Studios and the ever-enchanting Disney World, Orlando has made a big name for itself. This vibrant region in central Florida has wild nightlife, colossal-sized sports centers, and buzzing city life. 

Nestled just outside the heart of Orlando, you'll find endless treks and trails. Dotted with steamy swamps, pine-fringed forests, impressive wetlands, and rolling hilltops, hiking here is nothing short of picturesque! 

Spruce up your sightseeing and sprinkle in a little bit of Mother Nature! If you're frolicking down to Florida, take advantage of these epic hiking trails in Orlando! 

Best Hiking Trails in Orlando

Pine Island East Loop Trail 

If you hope to keep it central without heading far out, this is the perfect trail for you. Situated in the south of Downtown Orlando, the Pine Island East Loop Trail is home to picturesque vistas, flat ground, and a world of wildlife. 

You can stroll along the 3.4-mile trail leisurely, admire the local fauna, and even hop on a kayak in the water! Talk about diversity! 

Lake Lizzie Marsh Loop 

Nestled in the Lake Lizzie Conservation Area, this hiking trail in Orlando is easily a crowd favorite. With a short 1.7-mile distance, the Lake Lizzie Marsh Loop winds through some seriously stellar natural splendor. 

This kid-friendly trail is fit for those who want to enjoy a stroll rather than a challenging hike. Watch for local birdlife, and remember your bug spray for this trail! 

Three Lakes Loop 

Considered one mesmerizing place to hike in Orlando, the Three Lakes Loop invites you into some serene scenery. 

Enjoy the fresh breeze on a hot summer's day as you trail around this 5.3-mile loop. Feel the silky sand beneath your feet, watch local birds flutter above the water, and take in beautiful sights. 

Wekiwa Springs 

Home to versatile hiking trails, Wekiwa Springs offers something for every type of active enthusiast. Boasting trails spanning 0.9 to 8.3 miles, you can bet your bottom dollar there's a trail for you! 

After you've sweated it out, you can jump in the springs, get active on a canoe, or get your biceps pumping on a kayak. If you're interested in staying the night, Wekiwa Springs is one of the most beautiful places to hike and camp in Orlando. 

Lake Eola Park 

Located in downtown Orlando, Lake Eola Park is pinned for its famous 1-mile trail. This gem is popular among bikers, runners, and walkers, and the smoothly paved trail is ideal if you're looking for something quick, easy, and low-key. 

Split Oak Yellow Trail 

Escape the city buzz and retreat to nature! The Split Oak Yellow Trail is bursting with native wildlife and stunning landscapes. Spanning just over 4 miles, this hiking trail in Orlando is a chance to fully immerse in the scenery. 

Since I'm a local, take a hot tip from me. Make sure you've got sturdy shoes on. Depending on the weather, this trail can flood and get messy… quickly.

Lake Louisa State Park 

If you're wondering if Florida has good hiking, this place has the answer. 

Situated just outside of Orlando, the Lake Louisa State Park is brimming with a dazzling diversity of experiences. This landscape is covered in flourishing pine forests, oak hammocks, and undulating hilltops and is topped by the wildlife scene. 

Spot bobcats, tortoises, deer, and squirrels in their habitats and admire the playful nature of these animals. Swing by the three major lakes, Louisa, Hammond, and Dixie, and mix it up with some water activities. 

Finish your hike with a paddleboarding experience, or get your heart rate up on a bicycle. 

Scenic Nature Trail Flower at Tibet-Butler Preserve

As one of the top hiking trails in Orlando, this 3.6-mile trek offers a chance to get in amongst the wildlife scene. Home to various offshoots to get off the beaten path, the Scenic Nature Trail Flower is ideal for all hike lovers. 

Plus, you can pop into the environmental center or the butterfly garden for a more in-depth look! Peer up at the towering trees, appreciate the fresh air, and bring your hike to a close in the picnic area. 

Have More Fun with Hiking Apps 

Thanks to modern-day technology, gone are the days of frantically flipping through guidebooks and maps. There are tons of free hiking apps that you can use to keep you on track while hiking. 

Whether you're interested in hiking guides like FarOut Guides, safety apps like Cairn, or GPS apps like Gaia GPS, there's a lot on the market. Find out what's right for you with this in-depth guide on the best free hiking apps. 

Pack Essential Hiking Items Before You Leave 

The range of hiking trails in Orlando is unparalleled, especially when it comes down to natural beauty. Preparing ahead is always wise whether you plan on keeping it low-key or getting sweaty on a multi-day trek. 

Having the right hiking gear can make all the difference, and if things don't go to plan, you'll be grateful that you came prepared. Must-have items like a sturdy hiking backpack, waterproof hiking shoes, and an LED headlamp can take your trip to the next level. 

If you're planning a hiking trip in Orlando, make sure you take a look at this comprehensive guide to Amazon's top hiking gear. 

Admire The Beauty by Camping in Orlando

Hiking can lead you to some seriously sublime scenery; sometimes, you only want to stick around these hot spots. Whether for days or weeks, camping is an ideal option that opens you up to those opportunities. 

Some top campgrounds are the Bill Frederick Park and Pool, the Disney Fort Wilderness campground, and the Hontoon Island State Park. The good news is that you can keep it budget-friendly by camping in Orlando! 

Wake up to warm weather, unzip the tent, and make your way out for the day. Whether you want to explore the iconic theme parks, head out to the beach, or wander astray in the natural landscape, there's something suited to you! 

Find out everything you need to know in this Orlando camping guide! 

Sweaty Hikes and Beyond! 

Now that you're prepared to conquer Orlando's top trekking trails, you can start to craft your ideal travel experience for you, your family, and your friends.