The Tibet Butler Preserve is an oasis for wildlife and nature seekers amidst burgeoning Orlando. Over four miles of interpretive hiking trails and elevated boardwalks radiate from the Vera Carter Environmental Center and traverse an array of natural communities, including bay and cypress swamps, freshwater marshes, scrub and pine flatwoods. The preserve is home to bobcats, foxes, swallow-tailed kites, gopher tortoises, bald eagles, the rare indigo snake and a variety of songbirds, but you may not see them all. In the nature center, though, you'll get a close-up look at some of the area's wildlife in live exhibits. The center hosts a special environmental studies series for fifth graders.

The property borders the Tibet-Butler Chain of Lakes from which it takes its name. A pavilion at the end of Osprey Overlook Trail provides a good view of the cypress forest. This is a great spot for bird watching.

For More Information:
Call the center about their guided hikes, special presentations and hours at (407) 876-6696 (closed Monday and Tuesday).

Directions

• The entrance to the nature center is off C.R. 535. Take Exit 68 (Lake Buena Vista) off I-4. Head north about five miles on C.R. 535 (Winter Garden-Vineland Road). Entrance to the preserve is on the east (right) side of the road.