Hickory Lake Scrub Preserve
Discover rare endangered plants and unique scrub habitat on this peaceful 57-acre preserve, a gem of the Lake Wales Ridge.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer spiderwebs
Hickory Lake Scrub Preserve
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer spiderwebs
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover rare endangered plants and unique scrub habitat on this peaceful 57-acre preserve, a gem of the Lake Wales Ridge.
"A nice place to take a short hike and experience a sample of the amazing Lake Wales Ridge."
Bring a Stick! 🌿
Essential for clearing spiderwebs on the trail. Makes your walk much more pleasant!
Wear Sturdy Shoes 👟
Trail has soft sand and grassy areas. Good grip is a must for comfort.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Endangered Flora
Throughout the preserve
Discover rare plants like Cutthroat Grass, Scrub Morning Glory, and Scrub Blazing Star. A true botanical treasure!
Hickory Lake Views
Along the loop trail
Enjoy serene views of Hickory Lake as you wander through the unique scrub ecosystem. A peaceful natural setting.
Scrub Habitat
Loop trail
Experience a sample of the Lake Wales Ridge's unique scrub environment, often called the 'American Galapagos'.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wild
Trail Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring a Stick! 🌿
Essential for clearing spiderwebs on the trail. Makes your walk much more pleasant!
Wear Sturdy Shoes 👟
Trail has soft sand and grassy areas. Good grip is a must for comfort.
Explore Rare Plants 🌱
Keep an eye out for endangered species like Cutthroat Grass and Scrub Morning Glory.
Short & Sweet Hike 🚶♀️
Perfect for a quick nature escape, though some parts may be overgrown.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring a Stick! 🌿
Essential for clearing spiderwebs on the trail. Makes your walk much more pleasant!
Wear Sturdy Shoes 👟
Trail has soft sand and grassy areas. Good grip is a must for comfort.
Explore Rare Plants 🌱
Keep an eye out for endangered species like Cutthroat Grass and Scrub Morning Glory.
Short & Sweet Hike 🚶♀️
Perfect for a quick nature escape, though some parts may be overgrown.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate Hickory Lake Scrub Preserve for its unique flora and peaceful atmosphere, offering a glimpse into the rare Lake Wales Ridge scrub ecosystem. While some find the trails can be overgrown and mention spiderwebs, the opportunity to see endangered plants and enjoy a quiet walk makes it a worthwhile natural escape.
"Nice park and hiking trail, lots of flora and fauna to see... Besides the litter, it's a nice spot to spend the morning..."
Robert Banach
"This Polk County Environmental Lands Program Park is only 57 acres but has many examples of state and federally endangered plants, such as Cutthroat Grass, Scrub Morning Glory and Scrub Blazing Star. A nice place to take a short hike and experience a sample of the amazing Lake Wales Ridge, the American Galapagos, before hiking into the more remote areas along the Ridge."
LW Ridge
"I couldn't complete the loop because it's become overgrown in some areas. It was still a nice walk."
Toni C
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hickory Lake Scrub Preserve is a Polk County Environmental Lands Program Park. Specific driving directions can be found by searching for its name on your preferred navigation app. It's a smaller preserve, so look for signage indicating the entrance.
Typically, Polk County Environmental Lands parks have designated parking areas. It's advisable to check the official Polk County Parks website for the most current information regarding parking facilities.
Public transportation options to more remote preserves can be limited. It's recommended to check local transit routes or consider ride-sharing services if you do not have access to a personal vehicle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
As a Polk County Environmental Lands Program Park, Hickory Lake Scrub Preserve is generally free to enter. Enjoy the natural beauty without any admission cost.
While specific hours can vary, Polk County parks are typically open from dawn to dusk. It's always a good idea to confirm the exact hours on the Polk County Parks website before your visit.
No, advance booking is not required for Hickory Lake Scrub Preserve as it's a public park. You can visit anytime during its operating hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The preserve features a loop trail that takes you by Hickory Lake and through a scrub area. Some sections can be overgrown, and the terrain includes soft sand and grassy areas.
While not explicitly a birding hotspot, the diverse flora and natural habitat likely attract various bird species. It's a great place for general nature observation.
Information on restroom facilities can be limited for smaller preserves. It's best to check the Polk County Parks website or plan accordingly before your visit.
Leash laws and pet policies can vary. It's recommended to check the official Polk County Parks regulations regarding pets in their environmental lands.
The loop trail is the primary path. Be prepared for natural conditions, and consider bringing a stick to clear spiderwebs.
📸 📸 Photography
The preserve offers opportunities to photograph unique endangered plants, the serene Hickory Lake, and the distinct scrub landscape. Early morning light can be particularly beautiful.
Yes, the rare flora is a highlight. You'll find species like Cutthroat Grass and Scrub Morning Glory along the trails. Getting close might require navigating some natural terrain.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. For plant photography, a macro lens can be beneficial. Be mindful of the natural environment and avoid disturbing plants.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't specific playgrounds or amenities, the preserve provides an authentic outdoor experience. It’s an excellent spot for educational walks, teaching children about unique ecosystems like the Florida scrub and the importance of conservation. The relative lack of crowds means families can enjoy a more personal and less overwhelming nature outing.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Botanists
While the trails may require some navigation due to overgrowth, the reward is the opportunity to observe these botanical treasures up close. The preserve's designation as part of the Polk County Environmental Lands Program underscores its ecological significance. It's an ideal location for botanical photography and quiet observation of a rare habitat.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Ecosystem of Lake Wales Ridge
The scrub habitat here is crucial for the survival of several state and federally endangered plants. Visitors have the chance to see species like Cutthroat Grass, Scrub Morning Glory, and Scrub Blazing Star. These plants are adapted to the harsh conditions of the scrub, including frequent fires and nutrient-poor soils. The preserve's small size makes it an accessible introduction to this fascinating and fragile environment.
Understanding the ecological importance of the Lake Wales Ridge highlights why preserving areas like Hickory Lake Scrub Preserve is vital. It serves as a living laboratory and a refuge for species found nowhere else. The Polk County Environmental Lands Program plays a key role in protecting these valuable natural areas for future generations.
Navigating the Trails and Natural Conditions
Travelers often mention the presence of spiderwebs across the path, making a simple tool like a stick highly recommended for clearing the way.
For those seeking a tranquil nature walk, the preserve's low visitor numbers make it an ideal spot. It's a place where you can truly connect with nature without the hustle and bustle of more popular parks. The short loop is perfect for a quick outing, allowing you to experience the essence of the Lake Wales Ridge scrub in a manageable timeframe.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit