Hike the Gobbler Ridge Trail

Lake Wales, Florida

Details

Distance

2.8 miles

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by John Maurizi

Gobbler Ridge and a nice, easy trail with views of Lake Kissimmee and plenty of Oaks covered in Spanish Moss. Nice location for a trail run or easy shaded hike. However there is still some exposure to the sun so be prepared.

I'm not sure why this trail is called Gobbler Ridge. I do understand the Gobbler part as there are wild turkeys in the park. However, I don't think there is a ridge in all of Florida! Anyway, this is a nice trail about 2.8 miles long marked with green blazes. The trailhead is from the south end of the parking lot past a playground or you can access the trail via a connecting trail from the North Loop Trail. It is an out and back trail over flat terrain.  There is a small loop near the end but quickly returns to the trail you started on.

A really nice side trip is a walk down the Connector Trail.  This is a one mile flat trail that connects the Gobbler Ridge Trail and the North Loop Trail.  This is a great side trip with Oak trees covered in Spanish Moss.

Near the end of the Gobbler Ridge Trail you come fairly close to Lake Kissimmee. You can see it for a brief part of the trail. Unfortunately it is hard to enjoy the lake with so many power boats roaring by in the distance.  Lake Kissimmee is also loaded with Alligators! If you encounter one, turn back.  Don't try and walk around it.  They like to lay just under the water near the shoreline looking for prey. 

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