Hiking the Split Oak Forest Trail in Orlando
Hiking the Split Oak Forest Trail in Orlando
Hiking the Split Oak Forest Trail, located just southeast of Orlando in the Split Oak Forest Wildlife and Environmental Area, offers a unique opportunity to connect with the natural beauty and biodiversity of Central Florida. This trail is named for a massive, centuries-old live oak tree split nearly in half yet still thriving, making it a symbol of resilience and a highlight of the area. It’s an exceptional destination for anyone seeking an immersive and peaceful outdoor experience amidst a critical conservation area.
Adventure Guide to Hiking the Split Oak Forest Trail
- Main Trail Details: The primary loop spans approximately 7 miles and features a mix of shaded pathways, open fields, and serene wetlands. The terrain is relatively flat, making it accessible for hikers of various skill levels. Look out for the iconic Split Oak Tree, which serves as the focal point of the trail and is estimated to be over 200 years old.
- Flora and Fauna: This trail is part of a preserved wildlife corridor, offering hikers the chance to observe gopher tortoises, deer, sandhill cranes, and countless native plants, including towering longleaf pines and wildflowers that bloom seasonally.
- Connection to Other Trails: Split Oak Forest connects to other regional trails like the Florida Trail, extending options for those seeking longer adventures.
Local Insights
Split Oak Forest is a protected conservation area, and its management focuses on maintaining the delicate balance of ecosystems native to Central Florida. The oak tree for which the trail is named is a remarkable tree that naturally split in two and continues to grow—a notable story tied to Florida’s unique ecology. Occasionally, you might meet volunteers or researchers in the area conducting habitat studies.
Visitor Tips
- Best Times to Visit: Mornings are ideal, especially in cooler months from October to April, as temperatures can rise during midday.
- What to Bring: Water, sunscreen, insect repellant, sturdy shoes, and a hat for sun protection.
- Directions: From downtown Orlando, take SR 528 East to Narcoossee Road, then turn onto Clapp Simms Duda Road. The drive takes around 35 minutes, and parking is free but limited.
Adventure Map
Reviews
Chelsea LeNoble2 months ago
Such a shame that Orange and Osceola counties have decided to ignore the pleas of their constituents and build a highway directly through this absolute treasure of diverse & exceptionally well-maintained natural Florida ecosystems. Split Oak Forest offers a serene refuge from the chain restaurant & retail hellscape gobbling up the surrounding area, meaning that the forest will likely be a significant and unparalleled source of physical and mental well-being for the residents and visitors here until construction begins.
The trail map at the parking lot trailhead shows the different types of habitats you can walk through with trail lengths as well as points to look out at beautiful lake vistas. The trail through the scrub (pink areas) is white sugar sand, which can be difficult to walk through and very reflective on sunny days. The flatwoods, hammock, and other areas have pine straw trails that are much easier to traverse. We walked on the mowed sides of the sandy trail areas, which made it easier to get through those parts.
You’re likely to see all sorts of neat plants and animals. We saw two gopher tortoises, a few woodpeckers, dozens of songbirds, scarab beetles, butterflies, native orchids, and carnivorous bladderwort and sundew plants. There are tons of massive, gorgeous oak trees dripping in air plants, including the name sake split oak that’s marked on the trail map by the blue blazed lake loop.
Anyone who spends time walking on the trails here will be convinced of its value above that of a toll road, so it’s up to us to visit the forest and advocate that it remains protected. And if advocacy just isn’t your thing, then be sure to visit Split Oak Forest before the toll road construction begins so you can enjoy it while it lasts!
MannyG333092 years ago
A great park with excellent trails to Lake Mary. I would recommend hiking either early in the day or later in the afternoon. Such amazing views. There are no bathrooms so be ready. Either way once you get started it's amazingly quiet and tranquil.. until you here the wildlife. It's the sound of music! You never know what you'll see but won't be disappointed.
Karen Metilinos3 weeks ago
Beautiful park with lots of wildlife activity. I saw 6–8 deer cross the path and a couple circled back to the trail. None noticed me.
Sam Trador2 months ago
Sandy trails but a nice place to walk. The trails are poorly marked so you should definitely grab one of the maps at the entrance.
Angela M9 months ago
This place is amazing. It's simply amazing. The trails are like a journey through ancient Florida. Aside from the occasional plane overhead, there's no city sound, only nature. I was stunned by the native plant abundance. There is so much habitat and food for our local fauna. We even found fresh tracks (bobcat/panther?) by Bonnet Pond! I sincerely hope they keep this place preserved for the health of our local environment. We'll be back often!
