Econlockhatchee Sandhills Conservation Area

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · River/Creek · Views · Wildlife

This 706-acre property protects almost 1.5 miles of the Econlockhatchee River and its associated floodplain and uplands. Red and double yellow blazes help mark the path, and you'll enjoy this route that leads through a variety of native Floridian ecosystems.

You'll definitely be running in the sun for part of the trail, so pack and wear sunscreen.

Many roots along the often sandy trail might make this route a challenge, even with mostly flat terrain.

An easy loop hi through charming uplands habitats just east of Orlando. This conservation area is available for hiking, biking and horseback riding. From the kiosk by the parking area, the red blazed trail north under the power transmission lines and connects with the (looped) yellow trail. You'll pass through pine forests, oak hammocks and open scrub. Also, if you wish, you can find some access points to the Econlockhatchee River. The wildlife is abundant here—spotted a fox scurrying away— I'm sure there is many other types of wildlife here too.

Visitors will be able to traverse sandhills to pine flatwoods to prairies of saw palmetto. Lots of thistle and prickly pear cactus. Grand cypresses outlining the nearby waterway can be seen as well.

This route is only a few miles from Fort Christmas, which the Army built back in 1837.