Lake Minneola Scenic Trail and South Lake Trail

About 20 miles west of Orlando, the South Lake Trail (a.k.a. Lake Minneola Scenic Trail) takes in some of central Florida's most spectacular prospects. Nowhere in this region will you find more hills, lakes and wide-open vistas than along this 7-mile paved trail. As a bonus, the trail is only 5 miles from the West Orange Trail, and plans are afoot to connect the two. At the trail midpoint, signs point to a 0.25-mile spur for the Minneola trailhead, a good spot to park your car. The trail starts atop a hill near Lake-Sumter Community College on North Hancock Road. On a clear day you'll have wonderful views of the entire region, from glimmering lakes to the Orlando skyline. The first 2 miles are an easy downhill toward Lake Minneola in Clermont. Streetlamps allow for safe nighttime use on this heavily used section. On the lake the trail skirts the south shore, offering beautiful views. Clermont Public Beach boasts cool water and such trailside amenities as restrooms, picnic tables and parking. The final mile wraps around the lake to the western trailhead. Any of the side streets leading away from the lake will take you to shops and restaurants in downtown Clermont.