Lake Jesup Wilderness

Sunflowers brighten up the trail corridor [view slides]

A dazzling array of swamp sunflowers await each fall at Lake Jesup Wilderness, an expansive wetland area along the northern shore of Lake Jesup. The trail system zigzags through prairies that flood during the wet season before clambering onto a berm to tunnel beneath a canopy of cabbage palms. Scenic views across the lake and its prairies, as well as great birding, make this an interesting – if not often soggy – hike.

Resources

Overview

Location: Sanford
Length: 2.7 miles
Lat-Long: 28.727200, -81.263533
Type: round-trip and balloon
Fees / Permits: free
Difficulty: moderate
Bug factor: moderate
Restroom: none

Wading is probable in several spots along the trail system, including between breaks in the berm en route to the South Loop. Insects depend on season and wetness. Trail is shared with off-road cyclists and equestrians. The South Loop is not well maintained and can be tough to follow.

Lake Jesup Wilderness Area website

Directions

From Interstate 4 in Lake Mary, follow Lake Mary Blvd east past SR 417 to Sanford Ave, one block past Ronald Reagan Blvd (SR 427). Turn right on Sanford Ave and drive to the end of the road, which enters the park.