West Orange Trail Offers Rural Countryside to Runners, Skaters and Cyclists

The West Orange Trail travels over a wooden bridge in Winter Garden.

On the far west side of Orlando, the West Orange Trail (WOT) offers a paved path exclusively for recreational users, including bicyclists, runners and in-line skaters. The trail begins in Oakland and ends in Apopka. It is defined by rural settings and countryside, with minimal intersections with busy roads, making it a particularly good choice for bicyclists looking to “burn it” for long stretches.

Along the first two-thirds of the 20-mile trail are three “Stations,” which provide water, restrooms, phones, maps, vending machines and in some cases air for tires and other walking, skating and bicycle supplies. Five “Outposts” along this stretch offer limited amenities, and water provided at various stops along the entire trail while you're never more than a few minutes away from a road in the event of a breakdown or injury.

The second seven miles of the trail begin at Chapin Station in Clarcona, defined by its quiet serenity. It is a good long stretch for bikers working on their speed, with very few roads to cross and obstacles to slow you down. The WOT runs perpendicular to Lake Apopka, and though some promotional literature mentions scenic views of the lake, at no point on the trail is it visible.

This part of the WOT travels past the Forest Lake Golf Club in Ocoee and eventually splits near the McCormick Outpost on Clarcona Road in Clarcona, giving trail-goers the option of taking the brief trail to Clarcona Horseman's Park to the northwest, or continuing on the long trail to Apopka. The equestrian trail that begins at the horse park parallels the WOT to the south for a few miles.

The final seven miles of the WOT travels north, paralleling Clarcona Road (C.R. 435) into Apopka. For the first couple miles it winds through quiet, peaceful nature to the wooded areas of southern Apopka. As it approaches Orange Blossom Trail (Rte. 441), the scenery begins to deteriorate into a rural, unkempt suburb, with more debris and broken glass on the pavement than you would typically see on Central Florida's well-kept trails. It is highly advisable not to travel this stretch alone, particularly on foot, and to pick up your pace.

Once you reach OBT, a plethora of food options are available alongside the mammoth pedestrian/bike trail across the main road. From there it's a winding trail covering approximately two miles before you arrive at the end of the West Orange Trail. The final two miles are marked by Kit Land Nelson Park, churches, schools and storefronts before traveling the final stretch of Rock Springs Road to the end, just past Publix. There are many intersections and business entrances to contend with here, making for the most arduous section of the WOT.

If you want to get the rough stuff out of the way first, begin your ride at the Apopka end of the trail, although it is recommended to skip the final seven miles altogether, and park at the Clarcona Horseman's Park for if you're going to begin the trail from the north.

An excellent place to park for a day on the WOT is Winter Garden Station. Plenty of parking is available as are a full compliment of facilities and close proximity to restaurants and the cobblestone streets of downtown Winter Garden. The trail goes right through the center of downtown past the water fountain and surrounded by restaurants and stores. Two bike shops are across the street from each other featuring a full compliment of sales, service and tips for your travels.

For more info: 

Florida's Greenways and Trails

Orange County Parks and Recreation

Outdoor Travels

Rails-To-Trails Conservancy