Hal Scott Preserve
Written by Sandra Friend
Vast prairies and seepage bogs, a historic crossing of the Econlockhatchee River, and a campsite set under a live oak canopy—it’s all within minutes of the Orlando International Airport at Hal Scott Preserve.
At Hal Scott Preserve, I fell in love with these broad, open prairies on my first visit, and have sent many friends here since. The preserve’s grasslands host a stunning array of wildflowers, with blooms of one sort or another in every season. Thanks to the selection of this photo for the cover of my first hiking guide, it’s also an iconic place for me. I hope you enjoy the wide open spaces – and the tiny treasures waiting to be found among them – as much as I do.
Guidebooks
50 Hikes in Central Florida
Hiker's Guide to the Sunshine State
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Locator
Directions & LocationFrom the Orlando International Airport, drive east on SR 528 (Beeline aka "Beachline" Expressway). Take exit 24, Dallas Boulevard. Turn left at the end of the ramp, and drive 2.4 miles to the park entrance, on the left.
Overview
OverviewLocation: Bithlo
Length: 5.1 miles
Lat-Long: 28.486333, -81.095833
Type: Loops
Fees / Permits: none
Good for: botanical wonders, birding, primitive camping
Difficulty: 2 of 5
Bug factor: 3 of 5
Restroom: No
Some of the trail crosses drainage areas and may require wading after a heavy rain. The trails are shared with bicycles and equestrians.
Map
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Details
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Mileages
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Grab & Go
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