Most people in Oviedo know the Econ by name. Fewer know that a state forest follows it for miles, and that you can be on the Florida National Scenic Trail a short drive from downtown.
Where to park
Oviedo’s way in is the Barr Street trailhead at 951 Barr St. There’s a day-use fee: $2 a day, or $45 for an annual pass if you think you’ll come back. (You will.)
What’s out there
The Little Big Econ covers 11,696 acres along the Econlockhatchee River. Inside it you’ll find:
- 15.6 miles of hiking trail, including 8.9 miles of the Florida National Scenic Trail
- 10.5 miles of bike trail
- 12.2 miles of equestrian trail
Down by the river it’s shady and green. The higher ground is pine flatwoods: open, sandy and hot by midday.
Start with the Kolokee Loop
If it’s your first time, do the Kolokee Loop. It’s 5.2 miles, and the wooden footbridge on the Kolokee Trail is worth the walk by itself. Give yourself two to three hours so you’re not rushing the good parts.
The Kolokee Trail footbridge. Photo: BoFTA2023, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons.
Before you go
- Go early. Shade comes and goes, and Central Florida afternoons are hot most of the year. Carry more water than you think you need.
- Watch the river. Alligators live in the Econ. Enjoy them from a distance and keep dogs out of the water.
- Share the trail. Hikers, cyclists and riders all use the forest. Give horses plenty of room.
- Check conditions first. Look at the Florida Forest Service’s Little Big Econ page for closures before you head out, especially after heavy rain.
Make a day of it
Want flat pavement instead of sand and roots? The paved Cross Seminole Trail runs 23 miles through Oviedo and Winter Springs, from the Cady Way Trail in Winter Park up to the Seminole Wekiva Trail in Lake Mary. It’s flat, shaded in places, and follows an old railroad line between Winter Springs and Oviedo. Come back another day with a bike and you’ll have seen both sides of Oviedo’s outdoors.
