Titusville Enchanted Forest
As soon as I saw the Titusville Enchanted Forest on the map, I knew I needed to visit when I was in Florida. The nature preserve is owned by the county and it is open to the public.
The 470 acre sanctuary is a a lovely place for people of all ages and abilities to visit and admission is free. It's a great way to experience Florida nature.
If you want a leisurely visit, there are an interpretive center, picnic area and butterfly garden. If you'd like a more an active visit, there are miles of marked hiking trails for beginner and advanced hikers.
When you first arrive, you'll want to stop in at the interpretive center. There is a sign in sheet for hikers and, also, safety information. I was glad I had mosquito spray and bottled water with me.
The trees, plants, vines and flowers were beautiful and very different than what I'm used to seeing on my California hikes. I was happy that I didn't run into any alligators, but I did see a gopher tortoise, lizards, birds and insects.