Grab the Wool Socks for This Hike in Florida That’s 100% Worth Braving the Cold

Florida has incredible hiking trails with diverse terrain and rich wildlife. Florida's coldest months may actually be the best for hiking. Lower temperatures and humidity make the experience more comfortable, and there are often fewer mosquitos buzzing around. The right hiking gear can make wintertime hiking even more enjoyable. Wool socks are my favorite winter hiking accessory; they adapt to changing temperatures and wick away moisture. One of the state's best hikes is in central Florida near Apopka: the Wekiwa Springs Volksmarch Trail.

The Wekiwa Springs Volkmarch Trail is a 5.8-mile loop trail that is considered easy. It's popular for hiking, running, and horseback riding and is also considered kid-friendly. The trail begins near the entrance to Wekiwa Springs State Park and heads west. It continues past Prevatt Lake and crosses the Carpenter Branch Stream twice. The path also passes through forested areas, providing hikers with views of trees and foliage. Dogs are welcome on the trail.

The area harbors a variety of wildlife. Hikers note passing herds of deer and large turtles along the trail. There are also colorful butterflies and birds. Signs caution hikers of bears in the area and warn them not to approach or feed any they see.

The path can be wet at times with boggy spots. Hikers note the need for waterproof shoes. I would also add a vote for wool socks, which manage moisture well and are durable.

For more details about the trail, visit the Wekiwa Springs Volksmarch Trail listing on AllTrails.

Wekiwa Springs State Park is a 7,000-square-foot park popular for many activities. It's open every day from 8 am until sundown, and there is an entrance fee. People often visit the park to hike; it has a series of trails varying from 0.8 miles to 13.5 miles in length. Many visit the park to swim in Wekiwa Springs, a beautiful, clear second-magnitude spring that's always 72 degrees. The park is also a great place to mountain bike, picnic, ride horses, fish, and camp.

Apopka, Florida, is a great city to visit. The city of about 59,000 people has a hidden lazy river surrounded by rich greenery in Kelly Park. Magnolia Park is a beautiful park with lots of wildlife near Lake Apopka. Nearby, the Green Mountain Scenic Overlook offers spectacular panoramic views of Lake Apopka. Apopka is about 20 miles northwest of Orlando, Florida, a bustling city with tons of unique attractions, like the Harry P. Leu Gardens and the Crayola Experience.

If you'd like to plan a getaway to the area, consider staying at the Hilton Garden Inn on Orlando's Main Street.