Bob Deakin Short Stories

If it is a secluded nature preserve in impeccable condition with smooth, hard, sand trails and tantalizing scenery that a runner desires, the Orlando Wetlands Park is the place to go. Located in Christmas, Florida, the park is under the ownership and management of the Wastewater Division of the Orlando Public Works and includes an educational center, pavilions, maps and displays of wildlife to be found.

This could be the perfect place for runners – off-road or not – for the sheer uniqueness and solitude, and options of short or long stretches to run. The overriding feeling upon arrival at the Orlando Wetlands Park is peace. It is a long drive and so seemingly far away from the city streets of Orlando that to enter the parking lot is to enter another world.

The park is 1,650 acres of woods, marshes and lakes including 20 miles of roads and trails. There is one way in and one way out so trails should be selected carefully, especially on foot. Bicycles are allowed on the unpaved, elevated berm roads but boating, fishing, swimming, pets and horses are prohibited.

Once deep in the park, regardless of the trail, it is as quiet as can be imagined. The only sounds are birds or the occasional splashing gator. This is a rural setting, to say the least, and only those in excellent physical condition should run the trails as there are no facilities and no respite from the sun and elements once out on the trails, and it’s a long run in and out.

There are small paths off the main trails throughout the park, but they are overgrown in hot weather months and a scary prospect for travel. One look and it’s a wonder what is crawling, flying and slithering within that brush.

Visitors to the park on Saturdays and Sundays may have the pleasure of a free golf cart tour of the park by a park official. Friends of the Wetlands, a volunteer group, also provides tours, usually on Mondays. Upon entering the park, observe several buildings and shelters on either side, including permanent restroom facilities and water fountains. Staff members are on hand during normal business hours.

The park was created as a wetlands preserve in the late 1980s and the water is divided into an intricate flow of several pathways for maximum environmental benefit. It is a haven for bird watchers and a habitat for an immense variety of wildlife.

Sunscreen and water are a must at the Orlando Wetlands Park as there is absolutely no shade throughout. The elevated berm road is covered with grass and packed sand, smooth enough to make this an easy mountain bike ride with excellent footing for runners. The roads and trails are well-marked, and maps, brochures and a site plan can be downloaded here.

The Orlando Xtreme race series is held at the park each February, organized by renowned triathlon champion, Zahid Buttar. The park is located at 25155 Wheeler Road in Christmas off S.R. 420.

Orlando Wetlands Park Slide Show

Copyright 2010

Tags: bob deakin, christmas florida, friends of the wetlands, Orlando Public Works, Orlando Wetlands Park, orlando xtreme, zahid buttar