The best walks and hikes around Lake Okeechobee

There are several access points with parking for the Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail. A popular and highly-rated starting point is the Florida Trail Lake Okeechobee Park Trailhead. Other recreation areas and trailheads are situated around the lake, often providing direct access to the Herbert Hoover Dike path.

Yes, many trails are great for families. The terrain is generally flat, and large portions of the Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail are paved. For an easy, shorter walk, consider the Nubbin Slough Trailhead to Taylor Creek route, which is under 5 miles and offers lovely water views.

Yes, dogs are generally permitted on the Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail (LOST) but must be kept on a leash. Always be mindful of wildlife, especially alligators, and ensure you carry enough water for both you and your pet, as shade can be limited on the dike.

The best time to hike is during the cooler, drier months from late fall to early spring (November through April). Summer can be very hot, humid, and buggy, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. The cooler seasons offer more pleasant temperatures and a better chance to see migratory birds.

The area is a paradise for wildlife watchers. While hiking on the elevated dike, it's common to spot alligators sunning on the banks, various wading birds like egrets and herons, and ospreys. The surrounding waterways are also home to manatees. In areas like Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park, you might see deer, wild turkeys, and numerous bird species.

Absolutely. The main feature is the 110-mile Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail (LOST), which encircles the entire lake and is part of the Florida National Scenic Trail. You can tackle it in segments or as a multi-day thru-hike. The Herbert Hoover Dike of the Florida Trail offers a challenging 16-mile section for a long day hike.

The Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail is mostly paved, making it accessible for both hiking and cycling. However, some sections consist of gravel or crushed limestone. The trail runs atop the 35-foot-high Herbert Hoover Dike, so it is exposed with little shade. Always check for any temporary closures from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers before you go.

Most trails along the dike are out-and-back, as they follow the shoreline. The ultimate loop is the entire 110-mile Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail. For shorter loops, you would typically need to combine a trail section with local roads or explore trails within state parks like Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park, which has its own network of paths.

Yes, camping is available at several points around the lake, making multi-day hikes possible. You can find designated campgrounds in towns like Okeechobee and Clewiston, as well as at state parks. The highly-regarded Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park offers excellent camping facilities and is famous for its dark skies, perfect for stargazing.

Yes. For a different experience, visit Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park, northwest of the lake. It features over 50 miles of trails through wide-open grasslands, offering a glimpse of untouched Florida landscapes. It's a fantastic spot for birdwatching and solitude.

The primary challenges are exposure to the sun and weather. The trails on the Herbert Hoover Dike offer very little shade, so sun protection and carrying plenty of water are essential. During the summer, high heat, humidity, and insects can be intense. For long-distance hikers, logistics for resupply and accommodation require careful planning.