Timeline
06:32
Arrive at SUMICA and park. The trails open at 6AM, so you have time to stretch and find the start of the 2.1-mile railroad trail before the sun rises.
07:02
Begin the hike along the former railroad line. The trail sits roughly 6 feet above the surrounding pine flatwoods and marshes, offering an unobstructed view of the eastern sky.
07:17
Watch the sunrise. The sun rises toward the ENE, casting long shadows across the elevated track and the landscape below.
08:02
Finish the loop. The 2.1-mile hike takes about an hour at a leisurely pace, ending back at the trailhead as the morning light strengthens.
Local tip
The trail has little shade. Bring water and wear sturdy shoes for the elevated wooden or gravel path.
Check before you go
- SUMICA is open from 6AM to 6:30PM in Standard Time.
- Check the route for access off S.R. 60.
- The trail is exposed with little shade, so prepare for heat if visiting later in the day.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Lake Wales (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).