Florida Fresh Air: Tibet-Butler Preserve offers scenic hiking near Disney
While tourists flock to Walt Disney World for entertainment and play, there’s a green space in the shadow of Orlando’s major theme parks that provides a haven and habitat for turtles, alligators, songbirds and osprey.
The 438-acre Tibet-Butler Preserve provides well-maintained trails for families and Disney cast members to explore, plus a nature center, boardwalks and a shaded overlook of Lake Tibet.
When taking off from the parking lot, visitors will notice a small pollinator garden with labeled plants and benches for relaxing, plus the large nature center with indoor exhibits on Florida ecosystems and a tank with baby alligators.
Pine flatwoods greet hikers as they take to the trails, where it’s possible to spot cardinals, gopher tortoises and the occasional snake. One boardwalk stretches over bayhead swamp on the Fallen Log Crossing and another leads up to the Osprey Overlook set under the shade of a pavilion.
Trails 3.6 miles in length are available for exploration and outdoor learning, including the half-mile Tarflower Loop through a scrub ecosystem and the 1-mile Palmetto Passage. The latter sometimes closes due to flooding but presents a beautiful stretch of wooded walking that helps put the mind at ease.
Along the trails and near the water, it’s possible to spot pileated woodpeckers, anhinga and songbirds. The preserve provides a home for these avian residents and other wildlife but also a place for humans to relax, unwind and reconnect with nature.
If you go
Hours: Open 8 a.m.-6 p.m. daily","type":"text
Amenities: Benches, hiking trails, interpretive signs, lake, brochures, nature center, pavilions, parking, restrooms, trash cans","type":"text
Activities: Birding, hiking, environmental education, photography, wildlife viewing","type":"text
What to bring: Pack water when heading out on the trails, plus bug spray and waterproof shoes for hiking the wet Palmetto Passage.","type":"text
What not to bring: Alcohol, cycling, swimming and fishing are prohibited at the Tibet-Butler Preserve. Visitors should not collect plants or animals at the park.","type":"text
Pets: With the exception of ADA service animals, pets are not permitted at Tibet-Butler Preserve.","type":"text
Pro tips: Take a photo of the trail map before heading out or grab a map from near the nature center. Before or after hiking the preserve’s trails, stop into the Vera Carter Environmental Center to explore interpretive displays and learn more about Florida’s natural environment. The Osprey Overlook provides a shady spot for eating a snack or reading a book.","type":"text
More information: 407-254-1940 or orangecountyfl.net","type":"text
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.
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.
