Little Big Econ State Forest is a place for hikers, nature lovers
More than 10,000 acres of protected forest await hikers, mountain bikers and paddlers in Seminole County at the pristine, natural Little Big Econ State Forest.
The large swath of wilderness with uplands and cypress swamps surrounds the Econlockhatchee River, a wild and beautiful destination for fishing and paddling. More than 16 miles of hiking trails, including 8 miles of the Florida Trail, 12 miles of mountain biking trails and 9 miles of horse trails provide options for recreationists of all interests.
When setting off from one of the forest’s trailheads, the sounds of traffic slowly fades away, replaced by the sounds of woodpeckers, warblers and osprey. Squirrels, alligators, bald eagles, sandhill cranes and deer also reside in the natural environment of Little Big Econ, which is a part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail.
Serenity is easy to find when wandering and following orange blazes that represent the Florida Trail. Views of the tannic Econlockhatchee River are available along the trail, which comprises part of the 5.2-mile Kolokee Trail that begins at the Barr Street trailhead.
Paddlers can take advantage of the waterway, of which 19 miles are designated as the Econlockhatchee River Paddling Trail. The Muscogee name for the river means “River of Many Mounds,” a reference to the Indian mounds found along the way.
A range of mountain biking and horseback riding trails are accessible to the forest’s visitors, plus primitive camping (by permit only) and seasonal hunting opportunities.
Important information
Location: 951 Barr St. in
Oviedo or 2050 Snow Hill Road in Chuluota
Hours: Sunrise to sunset daily
Amenities: Benches, hiking trails, cycling trails, horse trails, primitive
campsites, pavilion, parking, trash cans
Activities: Hiking, birding, wildlife viewing, horseback riding, mountain biking, hunting, camping, boating, paddling, fishing,
picnicking
What to bring: Come prepared to hike for several hours with boots, water, bug spray, maps and snacks. While cellphone service is available in parts of the
forest, bring a buddy or know how to get help if need be.
What not to bring: Alcohol is prohibited within the state forest. The removal of plants and animals from the forest, except for legal hunting, is not allowed.
Pets: Leashed pets are allowed in the state forest.
Pro tips: Be attentive to surroundings within Little Big Econ State Forest. Gaze up at the trees and listen to the call of birds. Keep an eye on the trail for roots, snakes and spider webs. Hiking poles can be useful for support with more rugged terrain found on some trails. Be aware that the trail will flood in certain places when the river is high.
More information: 407-971-3500 or fdacs.gov
Do you have suggestions for my next destination or just want to get in touch? Find me on Twitter @PConnPie, Instagram @PConnPie or send me an email: pconnolly@orlandosentinel. com.