It’s hard to imagine someone living in the city relishing a two-hour, eleven-mile drive. But what if that drive steers you away from the clogged highways and winds through a wildlife paradise? Whether you are looking for a leisurely way to spend the day or a chance to see Florida’s wildlife up close, the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive is well worth the time.
Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive (LAWD)
From the moment you enter the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive, the melody of Mother Nature replaces the sound of the city. On both sides of the single-lane, hard-packed shell road, birds wade along the shoreline, alligators glide through the water, and osprey circle overhead. It is a photographer’s playground and a wildlife lover’s wonderland.
The wildlife drive is part of the larger Lake Apopka Loop Trail, which covers more than 20 miles and includes hiking and biking opportunities. Even though the speed limit on the drive is 10 miles per hour, many of the cars actually go slower than that as they take in the views out of their windows. Pull-over areas provide drivers a place to get off the road to take a look around. With patience and a keen eye, the views are spectacular!
In addition to the pull-over areas, a small parking area by the historic pump house offer an opportunity to view Lake Apopka, the fourth largest lake in the state.
The Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive begins at Lust Road and ends on Jones Avenue, and is open on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, from sunrise to sunset. There are a couple of areas where you can choose between two roads. Both end up at the same place but offer different views. Since you can’t loop back around, you’ll have to save the other roads for another visit. The Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive Audio Tour, accessible with a smartphone or other electronic device, provides guests with an overview of points of interest along the trail. Good for the entire family, the drive is slow and peaceful and, best of all, it’s free!
Enjoy some of the scenes from a recent visit to the drive. Better yet, go out and see for yourself!
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