Florida
Nature|Mountains

Take An Unforgettable Drive To The Top Of Florida’s Highest Mountain

Sugarloaf Mountain in Florida offers a unique driving experience with scenic views from the highest point on the peninsula.

Published Jul 30, 2018

Written by 

Angie Slayton

When most people think of Florida, they generally do not equate the Sunshine State to be quite mountainous. Florida tends to remain quite flat throughout. So when you hear about this particular mountain, and how spectacular it is to drive up, it certainly draws some intrigue. See for yourself what it’s like to drive to the top of Florida’s highest point.

The highest point on the geographic Peninsula of Florida is Sugarloaf Mountain near the small town of Clermont.

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TripAdvisor FlaHarlock

At 312 feet, Sugarloaf Mountain is not the type of mountain you would expect when you hear the term.

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Geographically speaking, Sugarloaf Mountain is really a part of sand hills which run south, featuring the prominent ridge that rises with dome-like peaks.

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Although it is not the highest point in Florida, (thanks a lot, Britton Hill), it is still one of the most prominent peaks in the entire state.

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Visitors to Sugarloaf Mountain have the chance to either drive the paved roads, or walk them if they are feeling courageous.

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Biking has also become quite popular along Sugarloaf Mountain too, as the rugged terrain and steep incline has proven to be a challenge for many.

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But perhaps the highlight of the drive up Sugarloaf Mountain, is reaching the top and being able to see for miles in every direction.

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If you’re venturing up this summer and want to stay cool in the car, then take a drive up Sugarloaf Mountain and see for yourself what this prominent peak has to offer.

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Have you even been to Sugarloaf Mountain before? Share with us your stories in the comments section! Otherwise, if you’re looking for more incredible things to check out in the area, then take a look at this insane board game retreat in Clermont.

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Nature|Mountains

The View From This Little-Known Overlook In Florida Is Almost Too Beautiful For Words

Green Mountain Scenic Overlook in Minneola, Florida offers stunning views, hiking trails, and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities.

Published Mar 2, 2022

Written by 

Angie Slayton

The truth is, Florida doesn't have too many scenic overlooks, likely because we don't have much elevation change throughout the state. But what we may lack in elevation, we certainly make up for in natural beauty. For instance, Green Mountain Scenic Overlook in Minneola, Florida offers tons of wide-open scenery, hiking trails, and some of the best views you'll find in the central part of the state.

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Tucked away in Minneola, Florida is a hiking and biking trail known as the Green Mountain Scenic Overlook.

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This one-of-a-kind overlook is part of the Apopka Loop Trail which clocks in at six miles out and back.

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What makes this hiking trail and overlook experience so unique is that hikers will be able to enjoy a number of outdoor activities on the trail, plus tons of wildlife viewing opportunities.

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Previous guests have commented on how peaceful this natural gem is, especially when you’re able to get to the Green Mountain Tower and climb up for the views.

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Even if you don’t hike the entire trail but just stick to the overlook opportunities, it’s guaranteed to be a rewarding time nevertheless.

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Because really, who could be a sunset overlook experience like this smack dab in central Florida?!

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Enjoy some of the best scenery Florida has to offer, plus a unique overlook offering up vast views in every direction. It doesn’t get much better than this.

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Click here to find out where Green Mountain Overlook is in Florida.

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Have you ever visited Green Mountain Scenic Overlook in Florida before? Share with us your experience in the comments section! Or if you're looking for more information about this overlook, including current weather and trail conditions, check out the AllTrails webpage.

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Nature|Mountains

This Thrilling Florida Park Is A Paradise For Mountain Bikers & Nature Lovers

Loyce E. Harpe Park in Florida offers some of the best mountain biking trails in the state, built on an old phosphate mine.

Published Aug 22, 2021

Written by 

Angie Slayton

We often share those hidden hiking spots in Florida so people can get out in nature and explore. But what about the mountain bikers? Not every hiking trail is going to allow bikers, so it's important to shout out some trails for those adventure enthusiasts, too. Take the Carter Road Trails in Loyce E. Harpe Park as a wonderful example. Formerly known as Carter Road Park, this Polk County gem includes sports fields, playgrounds, disc golf, hiking, and some of the best mountain biking trails in the state. Open from sunrise to sunset, come see why Loyce E. Harpe Park in Florida is a paradise for mountain bikers.

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The Carter Road Mountain Bike Trails in Loyce Harpe Park are some of the best you’ll find in the state.

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Built on an old phosphate mine, the mountain biking trails offer a unique experience of around 11 miles total.

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These trails offer a little something to all rides, whether you’re a beginner just sticking to the dirt or you’re advanced and taking the winding ramps like a champion.

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Start off at the trailhead station where you’ll find the map of the route plus a tune-up station to get your bike in tip-top shape before the ride.

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The main trail remains relatively flat throughout, just keep an eye out for an occasional root that might emerge in your path.

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This is a single-track, one-way trail throughout the week, except on Wacky Wednesdays when the trail is ridden backward.

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It’s worth noting that children under 17 years of age need written consent by a parent or guardian to be given to Polk County before attempting to ride. Safety first!

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Also, make sure you have the proper gear before attempting these trails. Helmets are required!

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So head on out to Loyce Harpe Park’s mountain biking trails to see why they are some of the best in the state.

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To find out where Loyce E. Harpe Park is in Florida, click here to open the map.

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Have you ever visited Loyce E. Harpe Park in Florida before? Share with us your experience in the comments section! Or if you're looking for more information about this park, such as current trail conditions, then check out the website or Facebook Page.

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