Hidden Waters Preserve — Attraction in Eustis

Hidden Waters Preserve is one of Central Florida’s hidden gems, boasting a 115ft descent into a natural sinkhole.

Here are some things to know & expect:

The best time to begin your hike during the warmer months is at sunrise or shortly thereafter Parking is free and very close to the trailhead If you plan to hike the entire thing, you can expect to spend about 2.5 to 3 hours if you stop to take in all of the forest views and sights to see. Take a minute and grab a trail map OR familiarize yourself with the lay of the land. It is easy to get lost or take the wrong trail if you’re sort of meandering around without paying too much attention. The bottom of the sinkhole is one round lake so it can easy to get turned around. The hike in is moderately easy. There are inclines and then many declines. You can expect to walk over a 50ft plank that protects your shoes from running water about three inches below. You cannot swim in the natural stream that you may encounter along the way You will see a diverse amount of plants, animal, and bug life. Wild blackberries, grapes, and calamondin oranges await you on the trail. You’re not supposed to pick the fruit but I have noticed that people do anyway, so just be mindful of Florida State Law Bring bug spray Bring water Heading off of the trail and into the thicket will land you in a bed of poison ivy so rethink this decision if you see something that makes you want to step off the trail and into the plants The hike out for some can be a doozy. If you are inexperienced with inclines, be patient with yourself and expect to take a few breaks. Remember, the hike in was almost all downhill. The only way to make it back to your car is back up. There are many people usually hiking at once so the chances you come across another hiker or family are good. People are generally kind and will help with directions if you are lost. Do not be afraid to ask which way the parking lot is. I’ve been asked many times.

Hidden Waters Preserve is one heck of a time. If you’ve never been, go. Save it for a day that you need to de-stress. A day that you’re looking for total relaxation on a hike through a rare, subtropical forest which hosts a rich amount of Florida biodiversity. You will be amazed.

I hope the above information will help someone who is interested in a hike here but was unsure of what to...

This was number 6 of the 7 Lake County Water Authority Preserves that we have been to. Each has their own special gift, but this one gave us 2 hidden water gems: Lake Alfred and the stream in the Ravine. I have uploaded a photo of the trail map that I think highlights these features if you are short for time.

No restroom facilities here.

There are 2 parking lots. We parked at the one on Country Club Road. We walked farther than the Gopher trail and Ravine trail , but these two trails lead to the lake and back, so at least do those. Do be sure to sign in and out for...

Really great place to walk. Hidden Waters Preserve is near Crooked Lake. I've included a map in my photos. There are several trails to choose. Some are quite strenous for those not in shape. There are some hills to climb, beautiful scenery, a creek running throughout, several bridges, cacti, wild flowers. We saw 2 gopher tortoises fighting for territory right in the middle of our path. They decided to call it a draw and went into the brush as friends. We chose the shorter route and plan to go back for the longer route another day....