Best attractions and places to see around Christmas are found in a region characterized by its natural landscapes, including significant rivers, extensive wetlands, and state forests. This area offers numerous opportunities for outdoor exploration, with a focus on trails and natural habitats. Visitors can find a variety of natural features, from shaded riverbanks to managed wilderness areas, making it suitable for those interested in nature-based activities.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
Highlight • River
Tip by
Highlight • Natural
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Christmas.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
The park was created in the 1980s as part of a water treatment project in which wastewater from private households is treated and released into the wetlands. The wetlands remove excess nutrients and minerals. The released water takes approximately 40 days to percolate through the area before flowing into the St. Johns River.
2
0
Easy, well-traveled trail that brings you to the Econ River. There are many gators - this is expected near any freshwater. At the river you can continue the hike south on an unmarked trail along the river.
0
0
The Econ River Wilderness Area is filled with wide, sandy, and grassy trails. The paths go by the reservoir on the property, along with numerous bogs and wetland ecosystems. This is a popular hiking spot for everyone in the family with numerous loop options.
0
0
Orlando Wetlands Park is the result of a wastewater treatment project. The 1,650-acre property is home to miles of trails and dirt roads that are great for hiking and running. The trails pass through the forest, wetland, swamp, and meadow habitats that are home to countless species of plants and birds.
0
0
A relaxing and easy loop hike along the Econlockhatchee River and through the lush forest in Little Big Econ State Forest. Enjoy the views of wildlife, bluffs and bridges on this well-maintained trail. Earn rewards for hiking this trail as part of the Trailwalker Program.
0
0
Enjoy a break in the shade of oak and pine trees. If you like, refresh your feet in the cool water of the Econlockhatchee River. There might also some vultures around to watch.
3
0
Cross the beautiful Econlockhatchee River over this rustic wooden bridge. It connects the Flagler Trail with the long-distance Florida Trail.
3
0
The region around Christmas is characterized by its natural landscapes, including significant rivers like the Econlockhatchee, extensive wetlands, and state forests. You'll find a variety of natural features, from shaded riverbanks to managed wilderness areas, making it ideal for nature-based activities.
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. For instance, the Kolokee Trail, Little Big Econ State Forest offers an easy loop hike. Orlando Wetlands Park provides miles of trails through diverse habitats, and the Econ River Wilderness Area has wide, sandy trails with various loop options, all of which are considered family-friendly.
You can find a shaded resting spot at the Shaded riverbank at Econlockhatchee River. It's a tranquil location under oak and pine trees where you can refresh your feet in the cool water and observe local wildlife like vultures.
The area offers various hiking opportunities. The Kolokee Trail, Little Big Econ State Forest is a popular loop hike along the Econlockhatchee River. You can also explore miles of trails and dirt roads at Orlando Wetlands Park or the Econ River Wilderness Area. For more options, check out the Easy hikes around Christmas guide.
Yes, Orlando Wetlands Park is a 1,650-acre property featuring forest, wetland, swamp, and meadow habitats, home to numerous plant and bird species. It's also part of a unique water treatment project. The Econ River Wilderness Area is known for its wetland ecosystems and the presence of gators near the river.
Absolutely. The region provides several cycling routes. For example, you can find easy loops like the 'Bike loop from Little Big Econ State Forest' or moderate routes such as the 'Tala Apopka loop from Orlando - Chuluota Lot'. More cycling options are available in the Cycling around Christmas guide.
Runners can enjoy various trails, including the 'White Blaze Trail' and several loops within Orlando Wetlands Park. There are options ranging from easy to difficult. You can find more details in the Running Trails around Christmas guide.
The Flagler Trail Bridge is a rustic wooden bridge that crosses the beautiful Econlockhatchee River. It serves as an important connection between the Flagler Trail and the long-distance Florida Trail, offering scenic views of the river.
At Little Big Econ State Forest, you can hike the Kolokee Trail, which offers a relaxing loop along the Econlockhatchee River and through lush forest. The trail provides views of wildlife, bluffs, and bridges, and is well-maintained for an enjoyable experience.
Orlando Wetlands Park is a significant 1,650-acre natural area that was created as part of a wastewater treatment project. It features miles of trails through diverse habitats like forest, wetland, swamp, and meadow, supporting numerous plant and bird species. The wetlands naturally remove excess nutrients before water flows into the St. Johns River.
Yes, the Econ River Wilderness Area offers wide, sandy, and grassy trails that lead through various ecosystems, including a reservoir, bogs, and wetland areas. It's a popular spot for hiking with multiple loop options and a chance to see local wildlife.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: