Barbara B. Pedersen Wildlife Preserve: A Hidden Nature Spot Near Dundee, Florida

If you’ve driven along Scenic Highway near Dundee, there’s a good chance you’ve passed the sign for the Barbara B. Pedersen Wildlife Preserve without realizing what is tucked away behind it.

Located at 6609 N Scenic Hwy, Lake Wales, FL 33898, this 40-acre preserve offers a quiet place to get outside and enjoy some of the natural scenery that makes this part of Polk County unique.

The preserve includes two relatively short trails, making it a good option for a quick outdoor stop rather than an all-day hike. The North Trail is approximately 0.74 miles and leads through the wooded property toward Lake Annie, while the South Trail is approximately 0.37 miles.

One of the first things that stood out during my visit was how shaded and peaceful the property felt. Tall trees cover much of the trail, and there are plenty of native plants throughout the preserve, including American beautyberry with its distinctive clusters of bright purple berries.

Despite being located right off Scenic Highway, the trails feel surprisingly private once you get farther into the property. It is the kind of place that works well for a quiet walk, some time outdoors, or simply a break from the busier parts of Central Florida.

The Barbara B. Pedersen Wildlife Preserve is also a good example of how many smaller parks and natural areas are scattered throughout Polk County. They may not always be heavily advertised, but they can be some of the more interesting places to explore locally.

If you are in the Dundee or Lake Wales area and want an easy nature walk with plenty of shade and a peaceful setting, this preserve is worth checking out.

Location: Barbara B. Pedersen Wildlife Preserve
Address: 6609 N Scenic Hwy, Lake Wales, FL 33898

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