🌿 Hike of the Month – Hal Scott Preserve
Details
## 🥾 Hike of the Month – Hal Scott Preserve
🗓 Saturday, March 28, 2026 | ⏰ 10:00 AM
📍 Hal Scott Regional Preserve and Park
5150 Dallas Blvd, Orlando, FL 32833
(GPS: 28.486083, -81.095694)
👥 Group size limit: 25 | 🌿 Open to the public
Explore one of the largest remaining pine flatwoods landscapes in east Orange County on this 4.7-mile loop hike through Hal Scott Preserve.
Protecting more than 9,500 acres in the Econlockhatchee River Basin, Hal Scott Preserve offers a beautiful stretch of pine flatwoods and floodplain forest tucked between the growing communities of southeast Orange County. Named after a former president of the Florida Audubon Society, the preserve features miles of interconnected multi-use trails and quiet backcountry campsites.
For this month’s hike, we’ll follow the White Loop through classic Florida flatwoods, with spur leading to Curry Ford, a historic crossing on the Econlockhatchee River. In the days of stagecoaches and horse travel, this was one of the places travelers could cross the river near the Curry Plantation while journeying between Tampa and Titusville.
This is a great hike for anyone wanting to experience Florida’s pine flatwoods ecosystem, with open forest, sandy trails, and the chance to spot wildlife along the way.
👣 Hike Leaders
Chris Stevens 📞 (407) 255-0535
Chelsey Stevens 📞 (321) 262-7563
🔸 Difficulty: Moderate
🔸 Distance: ~4.7 miles (loop with Curry Ford spur)
🔸 Pace: Social but steady; regrouping at junctions
🔸 Cost: Free
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### What to bring
• Water (at least 2 liters recommended)
• Snacks
• Sun protection (hat / sunscreen)
• Closed-toe hiking shoes with good tread
• Bug protection
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### Important notes
• Trail conditions: Expect sandy trail sections, limited shade, and possible wet spots depending on recent rainfall.
• No restrooms are available at the trailhead or along the route. Plan accordingly.
• Pets: Leashed dogs are welcome.
• Weather: Light rain will not cancel the hike. Severe weather updates will be posted on Meetup.
Come enjoy a peaceful morning exploring one of Central Florida’s largest protected flatwoods landscapes — we hope to see you on the trail!