[spoiler title=’Click for video transcript’ style=’default’ collapse_link=’true’] I’m here on the Volksmarch trail in Wekiwa Springs State Park in Apopka Florida so I’ve officially walked this entire thing barefoot it’s about six miles there were a few parts where just when I thought there was too much Sun I would get some shade the sand did get pretty hot at one point I was out here I think it’s about noon right now so I would recommend especially in the hotter months go in the early morning or you know in the afternoon after things have cooled down wildlife that I saw in this was actually less than what I expected because this is a bigger park but I did see several deer I saw lots of birds of course squirrels lizards but the biggest thing we saw was a black bear I didn’t see that today but it was on this trail my family saw it one evening so that was pretty thrilling overall this trail is pretty easy to walk it’s pretty flat the whole thing was very barefoot friendly the trail wasn’t completely deserted but out in the further parts there were fewer people of course and towards the trailhead there were a lot more so the Volksmarch trail it starts out at the springs and comes all the way up to the campground and then past the campground so if you’re here camping is a great little trail to hike on [/spoiler]
Summary: The Volksmarch trail is a neat trail to hike if you happen to be at Wekiwa Springs State Park in Apopka, Florida. It takes you through many different environments, with lots of different plants and animals to look at. There’s a good mix of sun and shade, but beware that if you’re barefoot hiking, there will definitely be portions of very hot sand, so you might want to go early morning or later in the evening during the hot months if you’re barefooting it.
Location: 1800 Wekiwa Circle Apopka, FL 32712
Length of trail: The Volksmarch ends up being about 6 miles, because you have to double back at the springs if you want to walk the entire thing.
Skill level: Beginner. Overall it’s pretty flat, with just a few small hills. Some parts have sand that is a little deeper. Also, watch out for tree roots.
Wildlife I spotted while on the trail: White tailed deer, lizards, gray squirrels, Sherman fox squirrels, raccoons, alligator (in Sand Lake, which is just slightly off the Volksmarch), Summer tanager, a black bear (link to my husband’s video).
Barefoot hiking friendliness: Very barefoot friendly. The only drawback is that during the hot weather, there are some areas of sandy trail that get uncomfortably hot. I always have a pair of shoes with me, just in case.
Official Website: Wekiwa Springs State Park
