This Scenic Highway In Florida Offers Lovely Views & Recreation Opportunities Near Orlando

Are you seeking the most nature-charged and thrilling escape to test your cycling skills in central Florida? You can never go wrong with Green Mountain Scenic Byway, a thrilling cycling route offering unique experiences you can only have in Florida. It features exciting small-town experiences dotted with big live oaks, historic buildings, rolling hills, and rural communities, offering cyclists and drivers who navigate the 72.74-kilometer winding roadway a rollercoaster-like experience. Thousands of cyclists and triathletes use the route each year for training and exploration while soaking in the breathtaking vistas. Also, as a motorcyclist, Sunday driver, or antique car club member, you can join people sharing similar interests in this byway each year.

The Byway connects the towns of Mount Dora and Winter Garden along the Lake Apopka western edge. This globally recognized byway's trailhead sits 47.6 kilometers from Orlando and 17.9 kilometers northeast of Clermont. You can drive 38 minutes to access the byway from Orlando International Airport, which sits only 59.9 kilometers away. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or rent a car and drive to the byway from Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB), which is around 86.7 kilometers northeast of the trailhead. The origins of the byway date back to 2004, when the first stretch, which was about 19.6 kilometers, was assigned a byway status. The second portion (The Oakland / Tildenville Corridor), around 5.2 kilometers, was incorporated in 2005, while the 3rd section (The Historic Downtown Winter Garden Corridor), 5.7 kilometers, became part of the byway officially in 2011. The last and final part of the route (The Astatula and Mount Dora Corridor), which is about 41.8 kilometers, was assigned in 2014, bringing the total to around 72.4 kilometers.

The first most impressive stop along the byway is the Green Mountain Overlook, giving you a clear look at the surroundings. It has an observation tower, picnic tables, and restrooms. You can also visit the Ferndale Preserve to explore its 3.2-kilometer loop. Categorized as easy, a stroll along the trail will reward you with scenic lake views and various elevation changes. Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive, on the other hand, will give you full exposure to the open water along the shoreline, restored wetlands, and marshes. You will also have opportunities to spot otters, alligators, egrets, and herons as you drive to the area. The recreational byway is also one of the must-visit destinations around the world for avid hikers. It has a lot to explore, including the over 64-kilometer Lake Apopka Loop Trail, which offers the opportunity to spot alligators, herons, and ospreys. It has double-blazed hiking trails for wildlife viewing, hiking, horseback riding, and bicycling. You will also find well-marked trail signs that highlight the area's history and ecology.

Cyclists can test their skills riding through the many gentle climbs and the winding roads with unique topography, which offer a formidable challenge. For instance, Sugarloaf Mountain, which is also the summit of the Florida peninsula, is a well-known training ground for cyclists and triathletes. Another great option for cycling enthusiasts is Montverde, a friendly town with several cycling-friendly trails. These include the 12.8-kilometer Lake Hiawatha Preserve route, which runs from Minneola via South Lake Trail, and is perfect for all fitness levels, and the 44.7-kilometer Ocoee Village Greenway loop, which starts from Deer Island in Downtown Winter Garden.

You can create an experience like no other by visiting locations outside the byway, such as the Winter Garden, located 24.6 kilometers via County Rd 455. The desirable attraction is awash with several award-winning restaurants, museums, stores, and a farmers' market. Couples and families traveling with kids should never miss an opportunity to visit Walt Disney World Resort. Found 33 minutes away via the Florida's Tpke and FL-429 S, Walt Disney World Resort is a world-class entertainment center offering an extensive range of attractions, dining, entertainment, and shopping options. Just remember to keep in mind these Walt Disney World vacation tips & hacks only insiders know.

After hours of exploration, stop by the many affordable and well-maintained eateries to recharge. For lovers of BBQ wraps, sandwiches, and fresh salads, Yellow Dog Eats is 32 minutes away via County Road 455. Tourists seeking savory and intimate dining experiences in an award-winning restaurant can pause by Chef's Table at the Edgewater. The restaurant sits in the Historic Edgewater Hotel and offers easy-breezy dining experiences through its three-course dining options and wine pairings. The main course dining package offers pan-seared fresh fish selections, chef's pork ribeye, braised beef short rib, cured duck trio, grilled fillet, and vegetarian truffle risotto.