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So many tours hustle you past the points of interest on a bus, forcing you to look quickly back and forth to your left and to your right, hoping you don't miss anything cool. Walking tours are a great alternative if you're not covering too much ground, allowing you to stroll casually from sight to sight, leisurely taking it all in and getting a closer look.

For both tourists and locals wanting to get a deeper understanding of their home, a number of walking tours in the Orlando area offer opportunities to visit key sites and get to know the locales. And as an added bonus, the ones included here are all free of charge.

The Downtown Historic Walking Tour

This free self-guided walking tour takes you past 28 buildings of historic importance throughout two adjacent downtown neighborhoods—the Central Business District and Parramore. The buildings were erected between the 1880s and 1940s. Conveniently, the tour also takes you around many of the most lively areas of the western side of downtown, so it's a good chance to also see the Orlando of today.

SEE ART Orlando Walking Tour

 TripSavvy / David Pavlina

The SEE ART Orlando program initially installed eight large-scale works of public art around the Central Business District and Lake Eola Park . The city provides a map for your self-guided free walking tour, a must-do for art lovers living in or visiting downtown Orlando. Additional sculptures are planned, and the tour will undoubtedly evolve to encompass them as well.

Two Additional Paid Walking Tours in Downtown Orlando

As a side note, there are two additional professionally guided walking tours in downtown Orlando, though neither are free. The Gallery Tour takes you through some of the leading art galleries in the Central Business District for $20 per person every Saturday from 10:00 am to 12:30 pm; The Downtown Orlando Food Tour costs $35 per person, runs every Saturday from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm, and takes you to five or six popular eateries in the area, where you sample some of their offerings.

Winter Park Walking Tour of Historic Sites

Take a free self-guided walking tour past 20 sites of interest in the commercial district of Winter Park (or, if you're feeling extra motivated, see four additional sites at the north end of Park Avenue). It begins at the Winter Park Historical Museum and site of the Winter Park Farmer's Market, continuing around the upscale downtown central business district. If you still have energy to burn, stroll around the nearby Rollins College campus afterwards; in 2015, the Princeton Review named it the most beautiful college campus in the U.S.

Historic Sanford Walking Tours

About 25 miles north of Orlando, Sanford offers information for a number of free self-guided walking tours that showcase the city's rich history. Tours are planned out to highlight the historic commercial district, the historic residential district, the waterfront development around Lake Monroe, historic parks, points of interest for those curious about military or transportation history, the historic area around Georgetown and Sanford Avenues, and the historic Goldsboro area.

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12 Best Hikes In Orlando You Shouldn’t Miss

July 18, 2021 //  by  Florida Trippers

When you think of activities in Orlando, Disney is what probably comes to mind most frequently, however we think that the scenery of these best hikes in Orlando rivals even that of Cinderella’s Castle.

Planning your trip to Orlando last minute?

Make sure to book ahead! Hotels and tours often sell out the closer you get to your trip. Here are our top picks for Orlando:

Top Experiences And Tours In Orlando:

• Kennedy Space Center Entry Ticket (Best day trip!)
• Everglades Airboat And Wildlife Park (Great for kids)
• Universal Orlando Park-To-Park Ticket (Easy cancellation!)
• Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour (Great to explore I-Drive!)

Best Places To Stay In Orlando:

• Buena Vista Suites Orlando (Close to Disney and affordable)
• Avanti Palms Resort (Amazing Universal location!)
• DoubleTree By Hilton Universal (At Universal entrance)
• The Grove Resort Orlando (Huge water park by Disney)
• Gaylord Palms Resort (Our pick! You won’t regret it!)

As you grab your bug spray and sunscreen and head to face the sun, these hikes allow you to recharge and connect with nature at various skill levels in one of Florida’s most trafficked cities. You can spend time walking around through beautiful gardens, taking in Florida’s unique ecosystems, or decide to take advantage o the lakefront breeze around many of the urban trails.

There is so much to do in Central Florida that allows you to get outdoors and get away from the crowds. While most people tend to think of the coastline, there are hundreds of lakes in central Florida with trails, loops, and brilliant scenery just waiting to be explored.

If you’re on the hunt for some unforgettable hikes in Orlando, here are some that you won’t want to miss. So load up on some breakfast in Orlando and get out there!

12 Best Hikes in Orlando You Shouldn’t Miss

Shingle creek trail.

While you’re in the heart of Orlando, if you’re looking to step away from the shopping and eating downtown , Shingle Creek Trail is the perfect suburban loop trail to step away from it all for a bit.

This is a one of the shorter hikes in Orlando with it’s 2 mile trail surrounding Lake Fran. This waterfront ensures that you’ll be able to take advantage of a breeze while soaking in the Florida sun. The trail’s new expansion also includes two overlooks for the option to spot or document some of Florida’s wildlife.

A perfect trail for multiple skill levels, Shingle Creek trail is free and is open to both pedestrians and cyclists. Don’t forget to bring your bike and a camera and take in the nature!

Don’t forget to check out some of the Best Places To Stay In Orlando when planning your visit!

Pine Island East Loop Trail

If you’re looking for a Central Florida trail favorite, look no further! Located south of Downtown Orlando, this 3.4 mile trail is a perfect, relatively flat length for a Florida outing. This picturesque loop is a great place to walk around and then take a kayak out on the water, or watch for wildlife as you fish.

Pine Island is a great hike in Orlando if you’re looking to immerse yourself in Florida’s wildlife. Parts of the ecosystem have been restored and the trail is included as one of the featured Everglades trails.

Trail hours are from 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. daily, although parking is limited during the week. Amenities include a canoe boat ramp. This trail is free and open to pedestrians and cyclists. Leashed dogs are welcome.

Three Lakes Loop

If you’re looking for a breezy Florida trail that takes around around the lakefront, this is the trail that you’re looking for. Three Lakes Loop comes up consistently in best places to hike in Orlando, if only for the view! Like most popular Florida trails, this one surrounds several bodies of water to maximize the breeze for a hot summers day, or take advantage of spotting wildlife throughout various seasons.

The Three Lakes Loop is a sandy trail that allows you to feel like you’re hiking to the beach while still right outside Orlando. It might even inspire you to take a day trip out to one of the beaches located near Orlando !

This 5.3 mile loop trail is great for beginners or kids and is is often used for nature trips. Dogs are not permitted.

Lake Lizzie Marsh Loop

While locals may be familiar with the Lake Lizzie Conservation Area which has previously offered a variety of hiking and equestrian activities, there is now a 1.7 mile trail that makes our best hikes in Orlando list.

Not to worry, despite it’s name the Marsh trail isn’t actually marshy, but we do recommend that you still bring some bugspray and closed toed shoes! The Lake Lizzie Marsh Loop is a great kid-friendly trail and a top location to check out the flora and fauna and do some bird watching!

This is a free trail, but you must pay and retain a permit to camp there. The park is open dawn to dusk. Leashed pets are welcome. This is one of the fun things to do in Orlando with kids!

Orlando Urban Trail

This urban trail also sits in the heart of downtown Orlando and runs about 3 miles long. This highly trafficked trail is appreciated for it’s easy, paved trail that allows easy access for cyclists and pedestrians to have a walking trail of Orlando.

The Orlando Urban trail runs from Loch Haven Park to Mead Gardens (which is also on this list of best hikes)! Another benefit to this free trail is the access to all of the great energy of downtown Orlando, and the flexibility to stop and grab a bite downtown anytime.

So don’t forget to grab your walking shoes and wallet to take advantage of this urban hike in Orlando!

Wekiwa Springs

When thinking of most popular trails in central Florida, Wekiwa Springs jumps to the top of the list. In fact, beyond the opportunity to hike around, it’s even been featured in top springs near Orlando . One of the great things about Wekiwa Springs trails is the versatility of trail options, with trails ranging from 0.9 to 8.3 miles and easy to moderate difficulties.

After hiking the trails, the park allows for a great time swimming in the springs, and canoeing or kayaking around. There is also the option for camping, and amenities include a campground areas, as well as canoe or kayak rentals.

It’s very likely that you’ll be able to see some of the native fauna at this Florida park, so wear grab your sunscreen and be prepared to spend the day enjoying Wekiwa Springs! The park is open from 8am-6pm.

Airport Lakes Trail

The Airport Lakes Trail is our most accessible boardwalk trail, allowing wheelchairs and strollers to take in all the wildflowers and birdwatching the park has to offer. This hike in Orlando is perfect if you’re looking for a quick getaway into nature.

The Airport Lakes Trail is one of our kid-friendly trails. It is a short .8 miles and offers space for recreational activities as well for those who want the flexibility to hike and sit outside enjoying the Florida sun.

This trail is free. The park hours are 6am-11pm. Amenities include public parking, bike racks, restrooms and drinking fountains.

Mead Botanical Gardens Loop

The Mead Botanical Gardens Loop is just over a mile and is good for all skill levels. This trail is commonly used for nature walks in Orlando let’s you hike see beautiful wildflowers, and is the best trail for bird watching.

This Orlando trail provides a beautiful change of pace from the traditional scrub forests that normally encapsulate most of Florida’s hiking trails. If you’re a nature-lover, it might also inspire you to check out more of the botanical gardens in the state !

The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, nature trips, and bird watching and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.

Lake Eola Park

This trail includes one of the most well spots in downtown Orlando, featured famously on Orlando’s city flag: Lake Eola Park. This 1 mile urban trail in downtown Orlando makes a loop and is great for casual walking, running, or biking. Lake Eola Park is a paved trail is aptly named, and takes you around Lake Eola. As you’re strolling around the park, if you’re lucky, you may just be able to catch a show at the amphitheater or be able to sit in on a outdoor yoga session as you walk by.

Lake Eola is always bustling after hours and offers up a great spot to go picnicking, stop at the various events that take place on the park greens, or watch the many birds that gather on the water.

Dogs are allowed on the trail if they are kept leashed. As this is in downtown Orlando, parking may be scarce or required to pay to park.

Lake Baldwin Park Loop

If you’re looking for another urban hiking trail near Orlando, the 2.5 mile Lake Baldwin Loop is a very popular choice among locals for being on the water. This paved trail loops around considerable greenspace past all manner of flora and fauna.

Much like the Orlando Urban Trail, there are places to eat and several places to show nearby at Baldwin Park if you’re looking for a change of pace after your stroll.

This trail has wheelchair accessible parking spaces, and the pavement is suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Dogs are able to use this trail while on a leash.

Split Oak Yellow Trail

Split Oak Yellow Trail is an easy trail that is perfect for getting away from the hustle and bustle of Central Florida. This calming loop trail is just over 4 miles and is perfect for wildlife watching on. While the loop is easily marked, there are also many trail offshoots to take advantage of while you’re hiking in Orlando.

Make sure to wear sensible shoes as part of the trail can flood dependent on the weather.

Scenic Nature Trail Flower at Tibet-Butler Preserve

This 3.6 mile trail stems from an nature preserve which is perfect for seeing Florida’s native flora and fauna. This location also has an environmental center for those wishing to learn more about the history and hike a nature walk in Orlando. There are various offshoots of different difficulties, but is primarily a kid-friendly hiking trail.

The Tibet-Butler Preserve is open from 8am-6pm. Dogs and bicycles are not permitted. Amenities include nature center restrooms, the environmental center, a butterfly garden, and picnic area.

THE 10 BEST Orlando Walking Tours

Walking tours in orlando.

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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Wander & Eat in Orlando's Hidden Main Street District

2. Clearwater Beach Day Trip from Orlando with Upgrade Options

3. Orlando’s Historical Highlights: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

4. Kennedy Space Center with Transport from Orlando and Kissimmee

5. 2 HR Interactive Walking Ghost Tour in Downtown Orlando

6. Fun Spot Attractions Theme Parks Admission Ticket

7. Flavors of ICON Park - Foodie Walking Tour

8. Kennedy Space Center with Airboat Ride Swamp Boat

9. Orlando Family Explorer: Downtown Wonders

10. Ghost Hunt Outdoor Escape Game in Orlando

11. Food Tour of Local Orlando's Ivanhoe Village

12. Orlando Haunts Ghouls and Ghosts Tour By US Ghost Adventures

13. Brews and Bites of Orlando

14. Gastro Secrets of Winter Park - Foodie Walking Tour

15. Holiday Celebration Tour: Ice Slides and Life-Sized Gingerbread Houses

16. Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour around Lake Eola in Orlando

17. The Art Lover’s Walking Tour of Winter Park

18. Private Custom Walking Tour with a Local Guide in Orlando

19. Orlando Self-Guided Historic App/GPS Audio Walking Tour

20. Zombie Scavengers Game - Lakeland, FL

21. Orlando’s Shadows: A Haunting Journey Through Time

22. 30 Days Self Guided Audio Tour: Discover Orlando Local Stories

23. Orlando’s Heartbeat: Discovering the Central Charms

What travellers are saying.

• Kennedy Space Center with Transport from Orlando and Kissimmee
• Wander & Eat in Orlando's Hidden Main Street District
• Clearwater Beach Day Trip from Orlando with Upgrade Options
• Orlando’s Historical Highlights: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
• Kennedy Space Center with Airboat Ride Swamp Boat
• American Ghost Adventures
• Royal Family Tours VIPs
• Springs to Sea Old Florida Eco Tours
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Orlando on the Cheap

Deals, discounts and free and cheap things to do in and around Orlando

Where to walk in Orlando

When the weather is beautiful in Orlando, there is nothing cheaper or more relaxing than a scenic walk. We have plenty of nice paths to stroll at local parks, county trails and picturesque gardens. Most of the walking paths are completely free, unless otherwise noted.  Here is your guide to where to walk in Orlando . Is there a walking path you think we should include? Please let us know.

To keep up with latest news on deals and discounts in Central Florida, sign up for the  Orlando on the Cheap  newsletter, follow on  Facebook  or on  Instagram .

You might also be interested in: Best free & cheap outdoor adventures in Orlando Free entry days at Leu Gardens Sunflower fields near Orlando

BEST WALKING PATHS IN ORLANDO

County trails.

The recreational trail system is Central Florida’s best kept secret with hundreds of miles of paved and natural trails for biking, walking and exploring. Whatever adventure you choose, it’s free to journey through the trails of Central Florida: Seminole County trails , Orange County trails , Lake County trails , Volusia County trails .

Lake Eola resident swans. Image: Melody Larson.

PLACES TO WALK IN ORLANDO

Lake Eola Park 512 Washington Street, Orlando, FL 32801 407-246-4484 Orlando’s iconic 43-acre recreational area is located in the heart of downtown. The lake is the main feature with its iconic fountain and a .9 mile sidewalk. Go on the self-guided See Art Orlando tour and feed the resident swans . Soak in spectacular views of Orlando’s skyline and marvel at the massive fountain that dances to jazz music every night at 8pm and 9pm. The park is dog friendly.

Harbor Park Lake Baldwin Park. Image: Melody Larson.

Harbor Park 4990 New Broad St, Orlando, FL 32814 407-246-2283

Lake Baldwin in Baldwin Park offers a lake view, benches, a dock and a gazebo. You can also walk to the nearby restaurants like Tactical Brewing and Café 906 in the same block.

Central Park walking paths. Image: City of Winter Park

WHERE TO WALK IN WINTER PARK

Central Park 251 S. Park Avenue, Winter Park, FL 32789 407-599-3334

The crown jewel of Winter Park with 11 acres of sidewalks, big oak trees, fountains and a rose garden. Stroll down Park Avenue to window shop at all the stores and end your day with a picnic in the park. Keep in mind, dogs are not allowed in the park. Mead Gardens 1300 S. Denning Drive, Winter Park, FL 32789 407-622-6323 Mead Gardens Map FREE 47-acre natural habitat in Winter Park with a variety of hiking trails and paths for biking, walking and exploring nature.

Cranes Roost Park. Image: City of Altamonte Springs

ALTAMONTE SPRINGS WALKING PATHS

Cranes Roost Park 274 Cranes Roost Blvd, Altamonte Springs, FL 32701 407-571-8180 The 45-acre park is located in the middle of the city, right next to the Altamonte Springs Mall. Park in the mall parking lot and walk over to explore. The lake is surrounded by a one-mile loop walkway and boardwalk with benches and shaded seating areas. 

Lake Lotus Park 1153 Lake Lotus Park Road, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714 407-293-8885 150-acre park with woods, wetlands, fishing, a playground and a 1 mile boardwalk. 

Lake Lily, Maitland. Image: Melody Larson.

WALKING IN MAITLAND

Lake Lily Park Lake Lily Drive, Maitland

The beautiful park in Maitland features a large lake with a circular 1/2 mile walking trail and boardwalk, a playground, lily pads, benches and picnic tables. There is also a dog-friendly Farmers’ Market on Sundays, 9am – 2pm.

Manatees at Blue Spring State Park. Image: Melody Larson

WALKING IN ORANGE CITY

Blue Spring Park 2100 W French Avenue, Orange City FL 32763 386-775-3663

This park is a designed manatee refuge in the winter (mid-November through March). You can’t swim with the manatees during manatee season, but you can view them in the crystal clear water from the boardwalks. The Pine Island Trail at the park is 3.6 miles one way.  Get here early since there are usually lines to get into the park. The cost is $6 per vehicle.

Sanford Riverwalk. Image: Melody Larson.

SANFORD WALKING PATHS

Sanford Riverwalk E Seminole Blvd, Sanford, FL 32771 407-328-0018

Take a relaxing stroll along Lake Monroe on the palm tree-lined sidewalk at the Sanford Riverwalk. The path is about 4 miles long. Watch the boats cruise by and take a break at one of the swing benches.

Black Bear Wilderness Trail 5298 Michigan Avenue, Sanford, FL 407-665-2211

This wilderness trail is free and open to the public. Hike the primitive 7.1 mile loop through wetland habitats and on the boardwalk along the St. John’s River. Leashed dogs are allowed. 

WALKING PATHS IN OVIEDO

Overlook Park 1988 Spring Avenue, Oviedo, FL 407-665-2001

Walk along the boardwalk that takes you above Lake Jesup and puts you right near the alligators. You can view them in their natural habitat at this densely populated lake. Lake Jesup has an estimated alligator population of almost 13,000 and is second only in the state to Lake Okeechobee. Warning: Never feed alligators. Observe and photograph them from a safe distance.

UCF Arboretum 110 Apollo Cir, Orlando, FL 32816 407-823-3583 Trail map

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12 of the Most Scenic Places to Go Hiking in Orlando for All Levels

By Kay Rodriguez

FYI: Some of our posts include affiliate links. When you make a purchase from one of these links, Urban Outdoors may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

Updated August 23, 2021

While it’s best known for its theme parks and entertainment options, Orlando has some wonderful green spaces and nature areas to explore. Although these spots often get overshadowed by everything else going on in Orlando, there are some stunning preserves, state parks, and conservation areas that boast some of the prettiest scenery in the region. We created this guide to the best spots for hiking in Orlando to help you plan your next outdoor adventure!

You won’t find a ton of elevation gain on most hiking trails near Orlando (it is Florida, after all), but you will find a variety of terrain, lovely water views, and cool spots for wildlife and plant viewing. There’s no better way to get some fresh air and explore the Orlando area than by tackling one of these beautiful hiking trails.

Best Hikes in Orlando for All Levels

The seminole-wekiva trail.

• Trail Length: 13.6 miles total (but can be shortened!)
• Location: Altamonte Springs

The Seminole-Wekiva Trail is one of the quintessential places for hiking near Orlando. For an urban hike, it offers basically everything you could ever want in a trail: wildlife viewing opportunities, lots of trees and tropical plants, both paved and unpaved sections, and a variety of sun and shade. It’s also quite long – 13.6 miles end to end – although you can always choose how long or short you want to make your hike! On weekends, you’ll find runners, hikers, and bikers out on the Seminole-Wekiva trail, and if you go early in the morning, you may run into some local wildlife as well.

Mead Botanical Gardens

• Trail Length: Varies
• Location: Mead Botanical Garden

Perfect for kids, couples, and solo hikers alike, the trails at Mead Botanical Gardens extend across several miles through some of the most lush ecosystems in the area. Wooden boardwalks and shady trails take you through the botanical garden grounds, where small waterways wind through some warped trees and other swampy plants. There are several trails all over the park grounds, so you can choose your own adventure depending on how long you want to hike and what you’d like to see.

Wekiwa Springs Hiking Trail

• Trail Length: 6.3 miles
• Location: Wekiwa Springs State Park

Popular for swimming and paddling, Wekiwa Springs State Park is home to some fabulous waterways and shaded trails for hiking near Orlando. There are lots of local bird species that call Wekiwa Springs home, and if you get lucky, you may even see a deer or a snake. We love the picturesque wooden boardwalks that wind through lush areas of tropical plants and trees, and this is one of the quieter trails in the area, especially early in the morning when there’s still fog in between the trees.

Disney Wilderness Preserve

• Location: Disney Wilderness Preserve

Disney isn’t just a conglomeration of theme parks and entertainment districts; they’ve also got an entire wilderness preserve that’s perfect for a day of hiking in Orlando! There are three trails at the Disney Wilderness Preserve – the red trail, the yellow trail, and the nature trail. Here, you can see lots of local wildlife, including birds and snakes.

Home to several native plant species, you’ll find towering trees and warped roots all over, giving the preserve a somewhat spooky look that’s perfect for photos. We’d recommend avoiding this trail after heavy rain or wet weather, as many sections can become very muddy or washed out.

Orlando Wetlands Park

• Trail Length: 3.9 miles
• Location: Orlando Wetlands Park

For a peaceful, easy trail for hiking in Orlando, head to the Orlando Wetlands Park. Home to many species of local reptiles, birds, and mammals, you can experience some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities in the greater Orlando area thanks to the proximity of the wetland ecosystems. Sightings of gators, raccoons, deer, snakes, and local marine birds are common here, and the easy trails offer fun and adventure for any levels of hikers.

Kolokee Loop

• Trail Length: 5 miles
• Location: Little Big Econ State Forest

Little Big Econ State Forest is one of the most popular areas for hiking in Orlando, and the Kolokee Loop is one of two trails in the area that made our list of the top hikes in Orlando. The Kolokee Loop is a longer trail than most of the easy trails on our list, but it’s still suitable for beginners and families who want a bit of a longer adventure outside. Along this trail, you’ll pass by the Econlockhatchee (Econ) River and through the surrounding forests. You’ll also have a unique opportunity to see alligators in the wild along the river, which are one of the most coveted local species visitors want to see in the area.

Little Big River, Digbat, Ditch of Doom and Flagler Trail

• Trail Length: 9.4 miles

This trail is a favorite of more experienced hikers in the Orlando area. While there’s not a ton of elevation gain on this trail, the terrain changes, length, and variety of landscapes create a fun environment for more experienced hikers to enjoy. Like the Kolokee Loop, this trail runs by the Econ River and offers opportunities to see alligators lounging on its banks. Watch out – this trail is popular with mountain bikers as well, so you should probably watch out for them whizzing by you on some of the narrower stretches.

Black Bear Wilderness Loop Trail

• Trail Length: 7.3 miles
• Location: Black Bear Wilderness Area

A local favorite for hiking in Orlando, the Black Bear Wilderness Loop Trail is a wild, special place for enjoying nature and viewing some of the most incredible wildlife in the area. This trail is one that’s often host to repeat visitor because no two hikes are alike – the wildlife and plant life in the area is constantly changing. Visitors report seeing wild boar, raccoons, deer, alligators, snakes, owls, lizards, and more on the 7.3 miles of trail this area offers.

Because of its location in a protected wilderness area, this trail is extra quiet and tranquil, perfect for an escape from the city.

Split Oak Forest Green Trail

• Trail Length: 3.4 miles
• Location: Split Oak Forest Wildlife And Environmental Area

Looking for a stunningly beautiful and easy hike that’s suitable for the whole family? Tackle the sandy trails of Split Oak Forest Green Trail, where you’ll wander through towering oak trees and shaded forests, and have the opportunity to see the namesake Split Oak tree – a tree with two sides that share a root base. In true Florida fashion, many of the trees in this area are covered in Spanish moss and have an eerie look to them as you meander through this flat trail.

Three Lakes Loop

• Trail Length: 5.3 miles

Another great trail for hiking in Orlando is the Three Lakes Loop at Split Oak Forest. Much like its name suggests, this 5.3-mile trail takes you to three lakes in the park, each with its own distinctive charm. This trail is a little longer than the more heavily trafficked Split Oak Green Trail, and you may find that you have many sections of it all to yourself! If you’re looking for a longer Orlando trail that’s still accessible to most hikers, the Three Lakes Loop is a great choice.

Lake Jesup Observation Platform

• Trail Length: 2 miles
• Location: Lake Jesup Park

For those looking for a low key, easy trail that’s perfect at sunset, look no further than the Lake Jesup Observation Platform Trail. This mostly flat, dirt trail winds through wooded areas and along the waterfront for a varied hike that’s suitable for beginners, kids, and hikers of any level. You’ll often find people trail running and walking dogs here as well. Along the way, you’ll find a wooden observation tower you can climb for a more panoramic view of the park area.

Shingle Creek

• Location: Kissimmee, FL

If you’re looking for a relaxed, suburban hiking area that’s great for all levels of hikers, Shingle Creek is a popular option. This is less of a single trail and more of a network of trails that run along the namesake creek and the surrounding forests and marshlands. Along the trail, you’ll find lots of pretty scenery and the opportunity to see local wildlife, including alligators and wetland birds. Family-friendly and dog-friendly, this is a popular local trail, so we recommend heading there early in the day if you prefer to avoid the crowds!

Additional Resources for Hiking in Orlando

What to bring.

• Breathable hiking clothes – For warmer hikes, you’ll want to wear a sweat-wicking shirt and breathable pants, like these Patagonia hiking shorts for men and women . For cold-weather hikes, we recommend dressing in layers, including merino wool baselayers for men and women , a down puffer jacket for men and women , and a Northface waterproof outer shell for men and women (a must for hiking in Seattle). And don’t forget a pair of the best women’s and men’s hiking socks!
• Trekking poles – You won’t need these for every single hike , but we suggest throwing them in your car just in case. We recommend the Black Diamond Trail Ergo cork trekking poles , which are lightweight, easy to transport, and durable.
• Water bottle – Having water available at all times is a huge must. To limit disposable plastic, we recommend bringing your own refillable water bottle. We’re obsessed with Hydro Flask water bottles because they keep water cold for hours.
• Sunscreen and bug spray – Sweatproof sunscreen and DEET bug spray can help you avoid sunburn and bug bites, two of hiking’s most annoying after-effects. Our favorite kind of sunscreen is Sun Bum , as it is free of harsh chemicals and safe for marine life, including coral reefs.
• A brimmed hat or cap – The sun can be brutal in open hikes, so always pack a brimmed hat or cap for day hikes in the sunshine.
• Emergency blanket and first aid kit – We’d strongly recommend bringing a first aid kit and a lightweight emergency blanket on every hike. Why? Because the unfathomable can happen, and it’s always best to play it safe.
• Durable day pack – A durable day pack is the perfect spot to stash all your hiking gear. While any backpack will do, we recommend the Osprey Tempest 20 or the Talon 22 day packs because they’re comfortable and breathable for long hikes. For more information, check out our best day packs for any terrain guide.

Wondering what exactly you should pack for your next hike? Visit our Complete Day Hiking Packing List for our full list and our top gear recommendations.

Related Links

• What to Wear Hiking in Any Season
• 35 Clever Gifts for Hikers That They’ll Actually Use

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Travel study reveals the least-walkable city for tourists in the U.S. is in Florida

Summertime is right around the corner. And for some Florida cities, like Orlando, Tampa and Miami, that means it’s almost time for waves of tourists .

And whether those tourists explore on foot or by car is determined by where in the state they plan on vacationing.

Online tutoring marketplace Preply conducted a study to find the most and least walkable touristy towns in the U.S.

Orlando made the list, but not for its walkability. Although Walt Disney World (which is basically a city in itself) has very walkable theme parks, the actual city of Orlando is one of the least walkable in the country.

Here’s where and why Orlando ranked on Preply’s list of the most and least walkable cities , which other Florida city made the list and Orlando's walkability score.

What U.S. city has the most walkability?

“To build our list of the most walkable cities in the U.S., we analyzed the Top 30 most-visited cities in the U.S. and used TripAdvisor to highlight five top attractions per city,” Preply’s study says.

“We then calculated the distance, walking time and how many steps it would take to walk between the five top attractions in each city, crowning the shortest walking distance cities as the most walkable destinations.”

Chicago took the top ranking as the most walkable city for tourists on Preply’s list. 

Here are the rest of the top 10 most walkable cities from Preply’s study:

• Chicago, Illinois
• Nashville, Tennessee
• Dallas, Texas
• Santa Fe, New Mexico
• New Orleans, Louisiana
• Portland, Oregon
• Boston, Massachusetts and Boise, Idaho (tied for seventh place)
• Austin, Texas
• Washington D.C.
• Savannah, Georgia

What U.S. city has the least walkability?

Two Florida cities made Preply’s Top 10 list of the least walkable tourist cities in the country.

Orlando took the crown for the least walkable city overall and Miami tied for eighth place, with St. Louis, Missouri.

Here are the rest of the top 10 least walkable cities from Preply’s study:

• Orlando, Florida
• Los Angeles, California
• San Francisco, California
• Honolulu, Hawaii
• Memphis, Tennessee
• Cincinnati, Ohio
• Seattle, Washington
• Miami, Florida, and St. Louis, Missouri (tied for eighth place)
• Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
• San Diego, California

What is the walkability score in Orlando, Florida?

“Orlando takes the throne as America’s least foot-friendly destination, with a whopping 31 miles and 65,000 steps to cover between its five most popular attractions,” the study said.

“By our estimates, a hike between the Universal Islands of Adventure, Discovery Cove, Universal Studios, Magic Kingdom Park, and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter would take a leg-tenderizing 11 hours and 19 minutes.”

Although it’s highly unlikely that anyone is visiting all of these parks in one day, that total walking time is only around an hour and a half less than it would take you to drive and fly from Universal’s Islands of Adventure theme park to Disneyland in Paris (that trip would take around 10 hours and 45 minutes).

If you’ve never been to Orlando and are planning a visit this summer, remember that you’ll have to rent a car or arrange a ride to take you from place to place throughout the city.

“If you’re still keen to explore Orlando’s top tourist hotspots, a local taxi ride would start at $2.90 and cost (between $1 and $2 per mile),” the study said. “Exploring the top five destinations would create a taxi cost of at least $70.”

Orlando also ranks low for walkability on Walkscore.com, scoring a 42 for overall walkability . For reference, that score is out of 100 and New York City ranks in the high 80s on this scale.