Central Florida is home to a number of well-kept, paved bicycle trails. The West Orange Trail was among the very first and an inspiration for many of the others. At 22 miles in length, it is the longest bike trail in Central Florida and certainly one of the most popular. Close to downtown Orlando and area attractions, the West Orange Trail passes through the communities of Oakland, Winter Garden and Apopka. One of the highlights of the trail is old downtown Winter Garden. Here, the trail runs through town in the median of Plant Street, where the railroad used to run. Old, unused buildings have come back to life as restaurants, bike shops, ice cream shops, gift shops, and an historical museum. The old hotel, once rundown and nearly abandoned, is now a popular bed and breakfast. Within the median in the center of old downtown, an area with a fountain and gazebo hosts a variety of activities for families, including live music on Friday evenings. All of this is a direct result of the popularity of the bike trail. About 10 miles northeast of Winter Garden, the West Orange Trail provides access to Clarcona Horseman's Park, which offers equestrians a camping and staging area for their visit to Central Florida. The constant changes in scenery and the laid back atmosphere of the communities and small towns along the way make this a great bicycle ride. Future plans call for the West Orange Trail to become part of a 200 mile greater regional trail, to be named the Central Florida Loop. The trail is easily accessible along most of its length. There are two main "stations," which feature paved parking, rest rooms, water fountains and playgrounds. There are other "outposts" along the trail that provide more limited amenities. The trail begins at County Line Station, just off of U.S. Highway 50, near the Lake County line. A short connector leads west to the start of the South Lake Trail. The West Orange Trail runs east to Winter Garden, a distance of about 5 miles. About one-quarter mile past old downtown Winter Garden is Chapin Station, commonly referred to as Winter Garden Station. This 5 mile section of trail between these two "stations" is by far the most popular. Just past here, the trail turns north and passes through wooded areas and newer suburban communities. Next, the trail makes some twists and turns as it weaves its way past Forest Lake Golf Course in Ocoee. Ingram Outpost is at mile 12 (grass parking, no facilities). Just past mile 14, the trail splits. Riders can continue straight to Clarcona Horseman's Park, or turn east and cross Apopka-Vineland Road. Crossing the road, the trail goes through a one mile section of very nice tree canopy before emerging next to the road and running north through Apopka to its terminus. The West Orange Trail offers a variety of scenery and features. Portions are well shaded and popular with recreational bikers, joggers and skaters. Other portions are more open, but less crowded, making these areas popular with riders on faster road bikes. Whatever your biking preference, you will find it on the West Orange Trail.
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