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Big Tree Park Longwood

4.6
·759 reviews·Longwood, United States

Discover a magnificent ancient cypress tree and historical boardwalk, with direct access to the Cross Seminole Trail.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful nature

CrowdLow
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Big Tree Park - Image 1

Big Tree Park Longwood

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful nature

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover a magnificent ancient cypress tree and historical boardwalk, with direct access to the Cross Seminole Trail.

4.6
(759 reviews)

"A truly cool place to check out, filled with rich history and knowledge."

Vertical photo
TIP

🦟 Don't Forget Bug Spray!

Essential for swampy areas. Apply generously to enjoy the park without bites.

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Trails

Beyond the cypress, enjoy scenic walks along the road or the Cross Seminole Trail.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Ancient Cypress

The Ancient Cypress

Main boardwalk

Stand in awe of a 90-foot cypress, a living testament to centuries of history.

Cross Seminole Trail Access

Cross Seminole Trail Access

Park entrance

Perfect trailhead for cyclists and walkers exploring the scenic Cross Seminole Trail.

Historical Boardwalk

Historical Boardwalk

Swampy area

A well-maintained wooden path with informative plaques detailing the park's history.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Ancient Cypress

The star attraction is a magnificent, ancient cypress tree. Take your time to truly appreciate its scale and history. Consider it a living monument.

Bug Spray is Your Best Friend

Mosquitoes and biting flies can be prevalent, especially in swampy areas. Pack strong repellent to ensure a comfortable visit and avoid painful bites.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful nature
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light, cooler temps
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Safe walking/running trails in Orlando

🦟 Don't Forget Bug Spray!

Essential for swampy areas. Apply generously to enjoy the park without bites. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Trails

Beyond the cypress, enjoy scenic walks along the road or the Cross Seminole Trail. Reddit

reddit.com

What Orlando neighborhoods and suburbs have abundant walking trails?

📚 Read the Plaques

Informative signs offer rich history and knowledge about the ancient trees. Reddit

🚲 Great Trailhead

Convenient parking for cyclists hitting the Cross Seminole Trail. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🦟 Don't Forget Bug Spray!

Essential for swampy areas. Apply generously to enjoy the park without bites. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Trails

Beyond the cypress, enjoy scenic walks along the road or the Cross Seminole Trail. Reddit

📚 Read the Plaques

Informative signs offer rich history and knowledge about the ancient trees. Reddit

🚲 Great Trailhead

Convenient parking for cyclists hitting the Cross Seminole Trail. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(759 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Big Tree Park for its magnificent ancient cypress tree and the informative historical boardwalk. It's also a highly convenient trailhead for the Cross Seminole Trail. Some reviewers note the prevalence of biting insects, recommending ample bug spray for a comfortable visit.

"Wow, this park is filled with Rich history and knowledge. Is he pulling in their bathrooms to be used in tons of signage. When you walk back towards the tree, there are tons of cool information and little plaques that you can read as you walk. You definitely tell all this places take care of. If you are in the area, this is definitely a cool place to check out."

Kyle Schmaltz

"This is such a nice park and trail. There is a short trail on a wooden path that goes over the swampy areas to show some historical trees.

Then there is a very beautiful trail that runs alongside the road and ends at a lake. Even though it's along the road you can't see the road through all the natural features. It's a great outdoor walk."

Jefferey St Pierre

"The cyprus is simply 90' of magnificence. Spend some time doing nothing but gazing at this tree that's seen centuries.
Apply mosquitoe repellent all over and carry babies under net. The flies are ever hungry and the stings pain for a long time.
In case, you do get bitten, apply Homeo Ledum pal Q externally.
But, the few bites are worth it. Nature is living in this park."

rama ganesh

What People Like

Magnificent ancient cypress
Historical boardwalk
Cross Seminole Trail access

What People Dislike

Biting insects

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Big Tree Park is located in Longwood, Florida. It's easily accessible by car and is situated right off the Cross Seminole Trail, making it a convenient stop for cyclists and walkers. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available at the park, which also serves as a trailhead for the Cross Seminole Trail. It's a popular spot for those looking to ride or walk the trail. Reddit

Absolutely! Big Tree Park is a direct access point to the Cross Seminole Trail, a popular paved trail for biking. Many visitors use the park as a starting or stopping point for their rides. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Big Tree Park Longwood is generally free to enter, offering a wonderful natural experience without any admission cost. Reddit

While specific hours can vary, parks like Big Tree are typically open from dawn until dusk. It's always a good idea to check local park schedules if you plan a visit during specific holidays or events. Reddit

No, advance booking is not required for Big Tree Park as it's a public park with free entry. You can visit anytime during its operating hours. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The main attraction is the magnificent ancient cypress tree, a truly awe-inspiring sight. You'll also find a historical boardwalk with informative plaques and access to the Cross Seminole Trail. Reddit

Yes, children can enjoy the park. There's a playground with a cool stump replica, though it's recommended for older kids (5+). The historical information and the impressive tree are also engaging. Reddit

Yes, the park is equipped with restrooms, which are noted as being well-maintained and convenient for visitors. Reddit

Given the swampy areas and natural setting, you might encounter various insects, birds, and other small wildlife. Remember to use bug spray! Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The ancient cypress tree itself is a prime photo opportunity. The boardwalk offers unique angles, and the surrounding natural scenery provides a beautiful backdrop, especially during golden hour. Reddit

Yes, the park offers opportunities for nature photography, from the grand cypress to the smaller details of the swampy ecosystem and the trail. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Big Tree Park offers a blend of natural wonder and family-friendly amenities. The ancient cypress tree is a fantastic educational opportunity, sparking curiosity about nature and history. The historical boardwalk with its plaques can engage older children with interesting facts. For younger visitors, the playground features a unique stump replica that's great for imaginative play. However, it's advised to bring older children (5+) to the main playground equipment. Remember to pack plenty of bug spray as the swampy areas can attract mosquitoes and biting flies, ensuring a more comfortable experience for everyone. Reddit

🚴‍♀️ Cyclists and Trail Enthusiasts

For cyclists, Big Tree Park is a prime destination. It functions as a convenient trailhead for the Cross Seminole Trail, offering ample parking and restroom facilities. This allows for easy access to miles of paved, scenic riding. Whether you're embarking on a long-distance cycling trip or a leisurely ride, the park provides a perfect starting or ending point. The trail itself is well-maintained and offers a pleasant route through natural Florida landscapes. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Majestic Ancient Cypress

The undisputed star of Big Tree Park is its ancient cypress tree. This colossal specimen is estimated to be hundreds of years old, with some sources suggesting it has witnessed centuries of Florida's history. Standing at an impressive 90 feet tall, its sheer scale is breathtaking. Visitors are encouraged to spend time simply gazing at this living monument, appreciating its resilience and the stories it could tell. The park provides a boardwalk that leads directly to the tree, allowing for close-up views and a profound sense of connection to nature's grandeur. Reddit

Walking the boardwalk around the cypress offers a unique perspective. Informative plaques are strategically placed, sharing details about the tree's age, its ecological significance, and the history of the area. This adds a layer of educational value to the visual spectacle, making the visit both awe-inspiring and informative. It’s a chance to learn about the natural heritage of Florida while standing in the presence of a true natural wonder. Reddit

Connecting with the Cross Seminole Trail

Big Tree Park serves as an excellent trailhead for the Cross Seminole Trail. This popular paved trail spans miles, offering a fantastic route for cyclists, runners, and walkers. The park's convenient location and amenities, including restrooms, make it an ideal starting or stopping point for those exploring the trail. Whether you're planning a short stroll or a longer cycling adventure, the park provides easy access to this well-maintained recreational path. Reddit

Even if you're not planning a long journey on the trail, a walk alongside it offers beautiful scenery. The path is often bordered by natural features, providing a pleasant outdoor experience even though it runs alongside the road. It’s a great way to extend your visit and enjoy more of the local landscape. Reddit

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