Seminole Between River Landscapes and Cycling Trails

Nature, rivers and cycling trails give a trip to Seminole a clear focus. In Geneva, in eastern Seminole County, lies Little Big Econ State Forest. It covers approximately 11,696 acres; the Econlockhatchee River flows for 17 miles through the forest and is designated an “Outstanding Florida Waterway.” If you’re planning to spend time outdoors, you’ll find both longer hiking trails and a designated paddling route here.

Forest and River Landscapes

Another natural area is the Little Big Econ Wildlife Management Area in southeastern Seminole County. It protects more than 7,000 acres and includes seven miles of the Little Big Econlockhatchee River, as well as the surrounding floodplain forests. The area is part of a 100-mile wildlife corridor along the St. Johns River. The river references relate to different areas: the Econlockhatchee River is described in the State Forest, while the Little Big Econlockhatchee River is in the Wildlife Management Area.

Hiking or Getting Out on the Water

Little Big Econ State Forest has 15.6 miles of hiking trails, including 8.9 miles of the Florida National Scenic Trail. One specific loop is the 5.2-mile Kolokee Trail, which is part of the Trailwalker Hiking Program. The total mileage describes the trail network in the forest; the Kolokee Trail distance, by contrast, gives you a specific loop to plan for.

You can also take a trip on the water: on the Econlockhatchee River Paddling Trail, you can paddle up to 20 miles to the C.S. Lee Boat Ramp on State Road 46. This gives you a choice of different types of outings—a loop on foot or a paddling route with a named destination. Plan according to the kind of trip you’d like to take.

Cycling, Horseback Riding and Fishing

The Little Big Econ Wildlife Management Area has three parking areas at trailheads, providing access for hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking. Fishing is permitted there year-round.

The Seminole Wekiva Trail offers something different: it is an almost 14-mile paved recreational cycling trail. Its western section is part of the Florida National Scenic Trail. The trail’s Markham Trailhead has restrooms, a drinking fountain, trailer parking, an equestrian paddock, a bike wash station and a mountain bike skills course. When planning, you can distinguish between a paved cycling route and the activities available at the Wildlife Management Area’s trailheads.

Planning Your Stay

Beyond its individual routes, Seminole County manages more than 7,300 acres of parks and natural areas, as well as more than 130 miles of paved and unpaved wilderness trails. These countywide figures complement specific examples such as the Kolokee Trail or the Seminole Wekiva Trail. For a cultural and historical connection, the Museum of Seminole County History is located west of Highway 17-92 between Lake Mary Road and SR 434.

When planning your hotel stay, you can first list the activities you want to do: hiking, paddling, mountain biking or cycling on a paved trail.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Altamonte Springs, Heathrow, Fern Park, Lake Mary, Sanford, Casselberry, Oviedo, Holmes.

For the broader travel overview: Florida.