I am such a water baby! So finding this trail that loops around Lake Apopka was totally up my alley. Now I wouldn't suggest getting in the water, since there were lots of gators when I went. But it offers such a beautiful view and element to the trail.
The trailhead starts at Magnolia Park. This park is quite large as there are two sections to it. There is the section that is close to the lake, which is where the bike trail starts. There is also the section on the other side of the road which has plenty of picnic areas and places to camp.
You will hear and see peacocks roaming around the grounds. They were very chatty in the morning and one came to say "Hi" later after I had finished my ride.
This park is beautiful and great for having a picnic! I did so later with a friend for a belated birthday celebration.
Back to biking the trail. There is a bit of paved path that takes you from the park to the entrance of the lake loop. After that, the trail is only dirt and gravel. I was able to bike it just fine, but you can walk this trail and still enjoy the views. This trail is not covered at all so sunscreen is a must! This trail winds right next to the water so bug spray is another item I highly suggest.
There was a moment where I stopped my bike, and I looked over to the right of me. Beautiful wetlands from where I stood reaching towards the horizon. The birds sounding their calls, creating nature's symphony. A place to stand still and just be.
You will come across the Lake Apopka Historical Pump House. This is a good halfway point between the trailhead and the North Shore of Apopka Lake. The house provides shade if you need some and there are benches if you need to sit.
Here, as well as throughout the trail, are little trail stations that have information about Lake Apopka and it's animal inhabitants.
I learned from a fellow bike rider that it was mating season for alligators. I went at the beginning of May. I saw 22 alligators, from babies to 10 feet long, just biking one way! Most were a decent distance from me. Just sunning themselves on the banks. A couple were faced toward the trail with their mouths open, waiting for some unsuspecting creature. I quickly bike past those guys, and only stopped if they were closer to the water to take a look at these dinosaurs like creatures.
I biked to the very north point of the lake. With stopping for pictures and some moments to take in the view, it took me a little over an hour one way.
As I have mentioned, I have already been back to this place a few times. It's a great trail to see central Florida's true nature!
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