Osceola County is a hidden gem for avid runners, walkers, and kayakers seeking a combination of physical fitness and natural beauty. Although the county is one of the fastest growing regions in Florida, its picturesque landscapes, serene lakes, and well-maintained trails, offer a haven for those who want to stay active while immersing themselves in nature.
In this article, we will take you on a journey through ten of Osceola County’s finest locations where you can experience invigorating runs and leisurely walks amid breathtaking natural landscapes.
- Shingle Creek Regional Park:
Shingle Creek Regional Park, often referred to as the “Headwaters of the Everglades,” is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and fitness enthusiasts alike. This vast park offers a network of scenic trails suitable for running and walking. The trails wind through lush forests, along the banks of Shingle Creek, and provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or an intense trail run, Shingle Creek has something for everyone. - Celebration Lakeside Park:
Celebration, a charming community in Osceola County, and known to many as the ‘Town that Disney built,’ boasts Celebration Lakeside Park, a beautiful destination for runners and walkers. The park features a loop trail around Lake Rianhard, offering picturesque views of the water and surrounding greenery. The flat terrain and well-paved paths make it an excellent choice for a leisurely walk or a brisk run. - Kissimmee Lakefront Park:
Kissimmee Lakefront Park is a gem along the shore of Lake Tohopekaliga (Lake Toho). The park features a scenic, tree-lined path that’s perfect for both walkers and runners. The views of the lake and the wildlife, including resident swans and various bird species, add to the charm of this urban oasis. - Lake Lizzie Nature Preserve:
Lake Lizzie Nature Preserve offers a runner’s paradise in the east side of Osceola County with over 1,000 acres of pristine wilderness, this preserve boasts well-marked trails that cater to runners of all levels. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely jog through serene pine flatwoods or a more challenging trail run along the shores of Lake Lizzie, this natural oasis provides a diverse range of terrains to explore. For runners seeking tranquility and a connection with nature while staying physically active, Lake Lizzie Nature Preserve is an ideal destination to lace up your running shoes and hit the trails. - Lake Runnymede Conservation Area:
Lake Runnymede Conservation Area is a pristine natural space where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of Florida’s native flora and fauna. The conservation area in St. Cloud not far from East Lake Toho features a trail system that’s ideal for both runners and walkers. Trails meander through pine forests, majestic oaks, alongside lakes, and into the heart of the county’s wilderness. - St. Cloud Lakefront Park:
St. Cloud Lakefront Park offers a stunning backdrop for your outdoor fitness activities. With a paved path along East Lake Tohopekaliga, this park provides stunning panoramic views of the lake and opportunities for both walking and running. Be sure to visit during sunrise or sunset for an extra dose of natural beauty. - Disney Wilderness Preserve:
Located just south of Kissimmee, the 11,500-acre Disney Wilderness Preserve offers a unique escape for runners and walkers. This expansive conservation area features miles of well-maintained trails winding through restored wetlands, pine flatwoods, and pristine natural habitats. It’s a fantastic place to experience the unspoiled beauty of Osceola County while staying active and immersed in nature. - Three Lakes Wildlife Management Area:
Located just east of St. Cloud, this vast 62,000 acres conservation area that includes parts of the Kissimmee Prairie, features a network of unpaved trails through pristine wilderness and is a year-round habitat for the bald eagles. Runners and walkers can explore the natural beauty and may even spot native wildlife including deer, bobcat, mottled duck, and wild turkey. - Makinson Island:
Accessible by boat or a scenic bridge, Makinson Island in Kissimmee offers a unique experience for runners and walkers. The island has trails that wind through a cypress swamp, offering a serene escape from the mainland. A 2-mile circular path located on the island’s southern tip meanders through open spaces and a lush sabal palm and hardwood hammock. Within this habitat, you can frequently spot songbirds like Loggerhead Shrikes, White-eyed Vireo, Eastern Phoebe (winter) and Gray Catbirds. Guided walks are offered several times per year - The Paddling Center at Shingle Creek:
If you’re looking for a blend of fitness and adventure, consider a run or walk along the picturesque Shingle Creek Regional Park followed by a canoe or kayak trip along Shingle Creek itself. It’s a unique way to experience Osceola County’s natural beauty.
Osceola County offers a plethora of opportunities for avid runners and walkers to engage in physical fitness while immersing themselves in the breathtaking beauty of nature. Whether you prefer the tranquility of a lakeside stroll, the challenge of a trail run through the woods, or a combination of both, Osceola County’s natural trails and spaces have something to offer everyone. So, lace up your running shoes or grab your walking gear, and embark on a journey to explore the stunning natural trails and spaces that Osceola County has to offer.
