Engraved Oviedo scene showing the historic downtown with a rooster on a post, oak trees, and a water tower in the background, on a wooden trail sign.

My Favorite Stretch of the Cross Seminole Trail and Where I Park

A personal guide to the best section of the trail, with parking tips from a local who rides it every week.

I've been riding the Cross Seminole Trail for about seven years now, ever since I moved to Oviedo. It's one of those things I took for granted at first — a paved path that cuts through town. But over time, I found my favorite part. It's not the busiest or the longest, but it's the one that feels like 'mine.' It starts at the Oviedo Trailhead, just behind Center Lake Park, and heads north. The first mile is a gentle climb through a tunnel of live oaks, with moss hanging so low you have to duck sometimes. There's a little boardwalk over a marshy spot where I always see ibises and once, a gator sunning itself on the bank. That's my stretch.

Where I Park: The Oviedo Trailhead

I almost always park at the Oviedo Trailhead, which is part of Center Lake Park. It's easy to miss if you're driving down Warren Avenue — look for the big sign near the baseball fields. The lot is gravel but well-maintained, and there's usually a spot even on weekends. Plus, there are porta-potties (not fancy, but clean-ish) and a water fountain that works most of the time.

From the trailhead, you can go south toward downtown Oviedo, but that section is more residential and has a few road crossings. I prefer going north — it feels more secluded, like you're in the woods instead of a subdivision. The trail is paved and well-marked, with mile markers every half mile. I usually aim for the 2.5-mile mark, which is just past the Lockwood Boulevard underpass, then turn around. That gives me a solid 5-miler with a nice hill on the way back.

The Best Part: The Oak Tunnel and Boardwalk

About a mile north of the trailhead, the trail does this magical thing: the trees close in overhead, forming a tunnel. It's not a long stretch — maybe a quarter mile — but on a hot day, that shade feels like a gift. The oaks are ancient-looking, with bark like alligator skin. I've seen deer here in the early mornings, and once a fox.

Right after the tunnel, you cross a little boardwalk that goes over a cypress marsh. The water level changes with the rain, but there's always something to see: turtles stacking on logs, great blue herons standing like statues, and in spring, the smell of lilies. I always slow down here, even if I'm pushing for a PR. It's my favorite place to stop and just breathe.

Oviedo Trailhead vs. Red Bug Lake Trailhead

Feature	Oviedo Trailhead	Red Bug Lake Trailhead
Parking	Free, 20+ spaces, gravel lot	Free, 10 spaces, often full
Restrooms	Porta-potties + water fountain	Porta-potties only
Shade on trail	More shade (oak tunnel)	Open, sunny in spots
Traffic noise	Low (residential)	Higher (near Red Bug Road)

How to Make It Longer: Continue to Red Bug Lake Road

If I have more time, I keep going past Lockwood Boulevard. The trail continues north through a mix of woods and neighborhoods, with a few road crossings (watch for cars at Aloma Avenue). The surface is smooth, and there's a gradual downhill that makes you feel fast. About 4.5 miles from the trailhead, you hit the northern end at Red Bug Lake Road. There's a small parking lot there, but it's always full — that's why I stick with Oviedo.

Going this far gives you a 9-mile round trip, which is a great workout. The last mile is open to the sun, so bring water. And if you're on a road bike, be careful of the sand that washes across the trail after storms — it can catch you off guard. I learned that the hard way and ended up with a grass stain on my shoulder.

What About the South End?

I used to ride south from the Oviedo Trailhead, toward the historic downtown. That section is nice too — it goes past the old Oviedo library and some pretty houses — but it's shorter and has more cross streets. The trail actually ends at Geneva Drive, near the Little Econlockhatchee River. There's a bench there where I've eaten a granola bar while watching fish jump.

But honestly, it doesn't feel as wild as the north stretch. There's more traffic noise, and you have to stop at several lights. If you're with kids or want a flat, easy ride, the south end is fine. For me, though, the north side wins every time.

Trail Etiquette and Local Quirks

This trail is popular with everyone: runners, walkers, cyclists, rollerbladers, and the occasional electric scooter. Most people are friendly — you get the nod or the 'on your left' — but there are always a few who wear headphones and don't hear you. I've learned to slow down and use my bell. Also, watch for dogs on long leashes. I've almost been clotheslined twice.

One local quirk: after a heavy rain, the trail floods in a few spots near the boardwalk. The water can be six inches deep, and people just wade through. It's kind of fun, actually. Just don't try to ride through it unless you've got good clearance — I saw a guy on a road bike go down hard once.

▶ Watch: GoPro ride through the oak tunnel and boardwalk section
Find it on YouTube → “Cross Seminole Trail Oviedo Florida bike ride”

Questions folks ask me

Is the Cross Seminole Trail paved the whole way?

Yes, it's fully paved from Oviedo to Red Bug Lake Road. There are a few short sections with soft shoulder sand, but the trail itself is smooth asphalt.

Can I ride a road bike on this trail?

Absolutely! I ride a road bike myself. Just watch for sand patches after rain, and be careful on the boardwalk if it's wet — it can be slippery.

Are there water fountains along the trail?

There's one at the Oviedo Trailhead and another near the Lockwood Boulevard underpass. I'd still carry a bottle, especially in summer.

Is the trail safe at dusk?

I've done it at twilight and felt fine — there are some lights near the road crossings, but most of the trail is dark. Bring a light and reflective gear. Also, watch for wildlife; I've seen deer and armadillos near the boardwalk.

Where can I rent a bike nearby?

There's no rental shop right at the trailhead, but Oviedo Cycle on Alafaya Trail (about 5 minutes drive) rents bikes and does repairs. Call ahead to check availability.

The Cross Seminole Trail is one of those things I love about Oviedo — it's not fancy or famous, but it's there for anyone who wants it. I hope you get a chance to ride my favorite stretch. Maybe I'll see you out there, slowing down at the boardwalk to watch the herons. If you do, give a wave. And if you see a guy on a blue Fuji with a bell, that's probably me — just don't make me use it. Happy trails.

More from the Oviedo blog

All posts · Browse Oviedo businesses · Oviedo events