Wekiwa Springs National Park: Old Florida

January 10, 2026 Mike Whalen

After several days immersed in the energy of the Surf Expo in Orlando, we woke to a crisp Florida morning ready for something different. Trade shows and theme parks have their excitement, but sometimes you need open air, quiet trails, and natural water to reset the mind. So instead of another day in the crowds, we pointed the car north and took a detour into Old Florida.

The Easy Drive to Wekiwa

About 40 minutes northeast of Orlando, the route up I‑4 and 429 is quick and simple. The scenery begins to change as the attractions fade into rolling open landscapes and views of Lake Apopka, leading toward the town of Apopka. Soon after, the entrance to Wekiwa Springs State Park appears—an oasis just outside the city’s reach.

There’s a small entrance fee, and it’s worth noting that the park now uses a reservation system (introduced March 2025) due to high summer demand—so plan ahead.

Hiking Through “Old Florida”

Once inside, the world slows instantly. The trailhead opens into sandy paths winding through palmettos, pines, and hardwood hammocks—classic Florida wilderness at its finest. Wildlife is abundant here, and it’s smart to travel together in case you run into one of the black bears known to roam the area.

As the trail transitions from dry path to boardwalk, the view opens into quiet wetlands and shaded forest—the kind of serenity that makes you forget the city was ever nearby.

The Springs: Crystal Clear & 72°

Further along, the path leads to the heart of the park—Wekiwa Springs or sometimes spelled as Wekiva. The spring itself feels almost unreal: a natural pool of crystal-clear water, framed by stone bulkheads built over the years for resting and sunbathing. The spring produces over 42 million gallons of fresh water per day, feeding the river below. The water stays a stable 72°F year-round—cool in the summer heat and perfectly refreshing after a hike.

Kayaks, Creeks, and Wildlife

For those wanting more adventure, rent a canoe or kayak and explore the river and back creeks. Drifting through the clear water, we spotted turtles, otters, fish, and even small alligators. In shallow areas, you can pull over, step into the water, and just float—surrounded by cypress trees, birdsong, and stillness.

By late afternoon, refreshed and sun‑tired, we headed west towards Tampa. About 30 minutes in, we stopped at Home State Brewing to rehydrate the right way—classic house‑made brews, flatbread, and dips on a shaded patio. They were setting up for a wedding that evening, and on a perfect winter Florida day, the whole scene felt like the ideal closing note.