Tosohatchee Wildlife Management Area, at 3365 Taylor Creek Road in Christmas, protects about 30,000 acres of pine flatwoods, hardwood swamp and river frontage along the St. Johns River east of Orlando. Run by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, it is one of the largest tracts of old-growth cypress and mature forest in central Florida. A network of sand and shell roads and the Florida National Scenic Trail crosses the area, giving hikers more than 20 miles of flat walking. Visitors register and pay at the entrance kiosk, and the area is closed or restricted during managed hunts, so check the FWC hunting calendar before travelling. The area is open from daylight to dark; sources list differing opening times, so confirm hours when planning. Expect birds such as swallow-tailed kites in spring, bald eagles, pileated woodpeckers and wading birds, plus deer, bobcats and black bears. Ticks, mosquitoes and snakes are common. There are no services inside the area: carry water, a map and a charged phone, as coverage is limited. Cell signal may drop away from the entrance.
| Distance | Trail network of more than 20 miles (32 km) on the St. Johns River, about 35 miles (56 km) east of downtown Orlando |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2-6 hours |
| Difficulty | moderate |
| Trailhead | Car only, about 50 minutes from downtown Orlando via SR-50 and Taylor Creek Road; a daily-use fee applies at the entrance kiosk and an FWC Wildlife Management Area permit may be required; confirm at myfwc.com |
| Best season | November-March (outside hunting seasons; check the FWC calendar) |
| Address | 3365 Taylor Creek Rd, Christmas, FL 32709 |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Tosohatchee WMA, Christmas
What to bring
- Water
- Insect repellent
- Hat and sunscreen
- Binoculars
- Orange vest during hunts if open
Location
3365 Taylor Creek Rd, Christmas, FL 32709
28.4981, -80.9391 View on map
Highlights
- Old-growth cypress and mature forest rare in central Florida
- Segments of the Florida National Scenic Trail
- Swallow-tailed kites and bald eagles in season
- Quiet sand roads with few other visitors
Tips for visiting
- Check the FWC hunt calendar; access is restricted on hunt days.
- Register at the entrance kiosk before heading out.
- Carry all water and a downloaded map.
- Wear long pants against ticks and snakes.
- Fuel up in Christmas or Orlando; there are no services in the area.
When to visit
November-March (outside hunting seasons; check the FWC calendar); go early to avoid midday heat and afternoon storms.
Accessibility
Roads and trails are natural-surface or gravel and uneven; there is no paved accessible route. Confirm with the area office.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How long is the walk?
Trail network of more than 20 miles (32 km) on the St. Johns River. Most visitors need 2-6 hours.
Is there a fee?
A small per-vehicle fee is paid at the entrance kiosk; confirm current fees and permit rules at myfwc.com.
When is the best time to go?
November-March (outside hunting seasons; check the FWC calendar).
Is hunting allowed here?
Yes, during managed hunts. Hikers should check the FWC calendar and wear bright colors if the area is open during a hunt.