West Orange Trail
The West Orange Trail is a 22-mile paved rail-trail running through western Orange County from Apopka through Winter Garden to the Oakland Nature Preserve. The surrounding roads pass through some of the most scenic countryside in the Orlando metro area, with horse farms, remnant citrus groves, rolling hills, and historic small towns that predate the theme park era.
Route Overview
Starting in Apopka, the route follows the trail corridor south through Killarney Station and into downtown Winter Garden. From Winter Garden, it continues west through the rural landscapes of Oakland and Horizons West. The drive showcases a side of Orlando most visitors never see - rolling terrain, horse pastures, old Florida homes, and thriving small-town downtowns.
Stops Along the Way
1. Apopka Trailhead
The northern terminus of the West Orange Trail in Apopka. The area features a bike rental station, restrooms, and parking. Start here to ride or drive the full trail corridor.
2. Killarney Station
A historic railroad station along the trail that has been restored as a rest stop. The surrounding area has old Florida charm with towering oaks and remnants of the orange grove era.
3. Downtown Winter Garden
The crown jewel of the West Orange Trail. The beautifully restored downtown features Plant Street, the Garden Theatre, dozens of restaurants and shops, and the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation Museum.
4. Garden Theatre
A restored 1935 movie palace now operating as a live performance venue. The Art Deco facade is one of Winter Garden's most photographed landmarks.
5. Oakland Nature Preserve
A 128-acre preserve at the western end of the trail featuring boardwalks through cypress swamp and hardwood hammock along the shore of Lake Apopka. Look for barred owls, great blue herons, and river otters.
6. Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive
Just north of the trail, this 11-mile one-way drive around the northern shore of Lake Apopka is one of the best birding drives in Central Florida, with hundreds of species visible from your car.
Driving Tips
- Plant Street in Winter Garden has angled parking that fills on weekends - use the public parking garage on Dillard Street
- The Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive is only open weekends and holidays (Friday through Sunday, sunrise to sunset)
- Bring a bike rack if you have one - the trail is excellent for cycling and you can park at any trailhead
- Horse farms along the route are private property - admire from the road but do not enter
Official Resources
Group Road Trip? BusBrother provides charter bus service along this route. Let a professional driver handle the road while your group enjoys the scenery. Get a free quote.