Lake to Lake Trail
A tranquil oasis in Lakeland, Florida, famous for its unique mute swans and peaceful lakefronts perfect for wildlife viewing and relaxation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful and great for wildlife viewing
Lake to Lake Trail
Best Time
Peaceful and great for wildlife viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil oasis in Lakeland, Florida, famous for its unique mute swans and peaceful lakefronts perfect for wildlife viewing and relaxation.
"Simply astonishing. The wildlife appears to have a great time. The lake is very clean and the pasture is well kept."
🦢 Feed the Swans Wisely
Bring oatmeal or lettuce for the swans. Avoid bread and fries!
🚶♀️ Explore Lake Mirror Too
Combine your visit with a walk around Lake Mirror and Hollis Gardens.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mute Swans of Lake Morton
Lake Morton
Witness the majestic mute swans, a unique sight in Florida, gracefully gliding on the water.
Wildlife Feeding Fun
Lake Morton
Feed the friendly swans, ducks, and geese approved foods like oatmeal or lettuce.
Tranquil Lake Mirror
Lake Mirror
Enjoy peaceful walks along paved paths with beautiful grounds and gardens.
Hollis Gardens
Lake Mirror
Explore the charming Hollis Gardens, a beautiful botanical display adjacent to Lake Mirror.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Swans!
Combine Your Lakes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🦢 Feed the Swans Wisely
Bring oatmeal or lettuce for the swans. Avoid bread and fries!
🚶♀️ Explore Lake Mirror Too
Combine your visit with a walk around Lake Mirror and Hollis Gardens.
🚗 Parking Patience
Parking can be tricky, especially near picnic spots. Be prepared to walk a bit.
💧 Hand Sanitizer is Key
Bring sanitizer after interacting with the birds.
Tips
from all over the internet
🦢 Feed the Swans Wisely
Bring oatmeal or lettuce for the swans. Avoid bread and fries!
🚶♀️ Explore Lake Mirror Too
Combine your visit with a walk around Lake Mirror and Hollis Gardens.
🚗 Parking Patience
Parking can be tricky, especially near picnic spots. Be prepared to walk a bit.
💧 Hand Sanitizer is Key
Bring sanitizer after interacting with the birds.
📸 Scenic Photo Ops
The swans and lake offer beautiful photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Lake Morton for its beautiful, well-maintained grounds and the unique charm of its mute swan population. The opportunity to feed the wildlife is a major draw, creating a peaceful and engaging experience. Some find parking challenging, and there are concerns about inappropriate feeding practices impacting the wildlife.
"Beautiful place. Very well maintained and developed so it limits extensive interaction between humans and wildlife such as by not having a sidewalk on the lake side, instead it is lake, road, then side walk in and around the homes. No trash present. Did witness some people throwing fishing nets and I do not know if that is legal, but if it is even with a fishing license, it seems highly inappropriate to do at this place. It doesn't fit the scene. (If it isn't allowed, police should patrol more frequently and get these people because it is affecting wildlife and endangering them and tampering with all the birds there too.)"
A F
"Simply austinishing. The wildlife appears to have a great time. The lake is very clean and the pasture is well kept. The city of Lakeland did an amazing job at keeping this lake in top condition. Good for picnics as well"
Daniel Bowen
"Actually had tears when moving an hour away, but still love to visit! Very relaxing, can watch from a bench or a beach blanket or take a stroll around the lake. Can combine with a trip to the library. Unique mute swans were gifted to the city from England. Black swans, pelicans, ducks, and lots of other birds to enjoy too.
PLEASE FEED ONLY APPROVED FOODS, NO BREAD, FRENCH FRIES OR OTHER JUNK FOOD Normally I bring a container of oatmeal which they all like and it's easy to carry plus a romaine or leaf lettuce (tear up for the swans, they love it) per person. Have tried thawed frozen peas and uncooked rice which are approved too, but not as well received. Best to bring hand sanitizer too as some eat from your hands if you want them to.
NEARBY is Lake Mirror which features Hollis Gardens (its ok to walk to the top of the fountain unless there is a chain across the steps indicating a private event) and Barnet Family Park with splash pad. While Lake Morton has the swans, Lake Mirror has numerous paved walkways and beautiful grounds. While Lake Morton is my fav bc of the swans, Lake Mirror is a close second."
Cindy Kroening
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Lake to Lake Trail is a network of paths and roads around Lakeland's lakes. For Lake Morton, head towards downtown Lakeland. Many visitors find it convenient to park near Lake Mirror and walk over. +1
Parking is available around Lake Morton, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Be prepared for a short walk from your parking spot to the lakefront.
While there isn't a single designated 'Lake to Lake Bike Trail' in Lakeland, you can cycle on the roads around the lakes. Some sections are more bike-friendly than others.
The paved walkways around Lake Mirror are generally accessible. Lake Morton's paths may be less consistently paved, so check specific areas if accessibility is a concern.
Using a map app on your phone is recommended. For Lake Morton, turning right on Memorial Drive from Harry's Seafood will lead you to the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, both Lake Morton and Lake Mirror are public parks and are free to enter and enjoy.
The lake and its surrounding park areas are generally accessible from dawn until dusk. There are no specific closing times posted for the general park areas.
No tickets are required to feed the swans. However, you must use only approved foods like oatmeal or lettuce.
While generally open, be mindful of any posted signs regarding events or specific area closures. Avoid feeding the wildlife inappropriate foods.
Absolutely! They are very close to each other and offer complementary experiences, making them perfect for a combined visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The areas around the swans are prime photo spots. The reflections on the water, especially during sunrise or sunset, are also stunning.
Yes, the developed paths around Lake Mirror are safe. For Lake Morton, be aware of your surroundings and any potential wildlife.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local ordinances before flying a drone over public parks and waterways.
You'll primarily see mute swans, but also ducks, geese, pelicans, and other local bird species.
Generally, personal photography is welcome. However, be respectful of other visitors and the wildlife.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes near Lake Morton and Lake Mirror, including options along Memorial Drive.
Picnic tables are available, but they can be popular. You can also bring a blanket and enjoy a picnic on the grass.
Approved foods include oatmeal, romaine lettuce, leaf lettuce, thawed frozen peas, and uncooked rice.
Typically, there are no permanent food vendors directly at Lake Morton. It's best to bring your own snacks or dine at nearby establishments.
Pack a picnic to enjoy by the lake, or dine at a restaurant with outdoor seating overlooking the water for a scenic meal.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting Swans of Lake Morton
When visiting Lake Morton, remember the importance of responsible wildlife interaction. Feeding the swans is a popular activity, but it's crucial to only offer approved foods. Avoid feeding them bread, French fries, or other processed junk food, as these can be harmful to their health. Instead, opt for healthier alternatives like oatmeal, romaine lettuce, or thawed frozen peas.
Beyond the swans, Lake Morton offers a tranquil atmosphere perfect for a relaxing stroll or a peaceful moment. The well-maintained grounds provide a pleasant environment for picnics and quiet contemplation. The lake itself is clean, contributing to the overall serene experience.
Exploring the Lake Mirror District
A significant attraction within the Lake Mirror district is Hollis Gardens. This botanical garden is a vibrant display of flowers, plants, and water features, offering a picturesque setting for visitors. While the top of the fountain is usually accessible, be aware of potential closures for private events.
For families, Barnet Family Park, located near Lake Mirror, features a splash pad, providing a fun and refreshing option for children, especially during warmer months. This makes the Lake Mirror area a versatile destination catering to various interests, from nature lovers to families seeking recreation.
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