The Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail (L.O.S.T) is an overlay on the Florida Trail around Lake Okeechobee, the Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail provides a mostly paved cycling and walking route around the second largest lake entirely within the borders of the United States.
Taylor Creek Storm Water Treatment Area (S.T.A) encompasses the ancient shoreline of Taylor Creek and man-made marshes, this wetlands park is a gem for birding and wildlife watching just north of Okeechobee.
Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park protects a remnant of what was once the great Indian Prairie stretching to Lake Okeechobee, a mosaic of wet and dry grasslands where wildflowers flourish.
A town favorite is the Grassy Island Mountain Bike Trail. The Grassy Island MTB Trail promises an unforgettable exploration of Florida’s captivating wilderness, inviting visitors to connect with the environment and embrace the tranquility that abounds. There are three different trails around 4-6 miles long to accommodate hiking, biking, and horseback riding. You can see an array of wildlife in a beautiful natural setting that is very well shaded in most areas for the whole family to enjoy.
If hiking is your passion Okeechobee is proud to announce that we have just been designated as a Gateway Community for the Florida Trail Association.
What is a Gateway Community?
A Gateway Community is a designated town in close proximity to the Florida Trail that offers accommodations, restaurants, grocery stores for thru-hiker resupply, and other recreational opportunities. This program works by connecting Florida Trail hikers to local businesses within the community, and making visitors to the community aware of the Florida Trail.
A Gateway Community not only brings awareness, safety, and accommodations that enhance hikers’ experience on the Florida Trail, but also provide publicity, tourism, and economic growth to each town’s local businesses.
Look for this decal (shown above) in the front window of local businesses in each Gateway Community**! This logo signifies official awareness and a partnership with the Florida National Scenic Trail.
(** Not all businesses listed on our GC pages will have this decal)
Florida Trail Passport Program
The FT passport program is a fun way for hikers to visit our Gateway Communities and have a memento of each place they visited along the Florida Trail. Gateway Communities will be housing town and local business stamps!
For more information on the FT Passport Program and stamp locations visit: www.floridatrail.org/passport/
Great news! The long-awaited 2021-2022 Florida National Scenic Trail Hiker Guide is here!
This Hiker Guide has just what you need for a successful thru-hike this season including:
Required Reservation Info
Required Permit Info
Prescribed Burn Info
Hunter Safety Tips
Gateway Community Info
Leave No Trace Principles
End to End Hiker Designation Info
Maps
And more!
Find the guide at Florida Trail
Plan Your Visit To Okeechobee County
Maximize your Okeechobee County adventure with our app. Explore interactive maps, find local gems, and stay up-to-date with events. Download our app now and unlock the full potential of your Okeechobee County adventure!
Plan Your Visit To Okeechobee County
Maximize your Okeechobee County adventure with our app. Explore interactive maps, find local gems, and stay up-to-date with events. Download our app now and unlock the full potential of your Okeechobee County adventure!
