The Winter Park Chain of Lakes is a beautiful network of six interconnected lakes: Lake Virginia, Lake Mizell, Lake Osceola, Lake Maitland, Lake Nina, and Lake Minnehaha. Located in Winter Park and Maitland, and close to downtown Orlando, these lakes are ideal for paddleboarding, kayaking, waterskiing, boating, and fishing. The navigable canals connecting the lakes offer shelter from wind and sun, making them perfect for paddling.

The distance between launch points varies, with approximately 3 miles between Dinky Dock in Winter Park and Fort Maitland in Maitland. The lakes are situated in Orange County and are easy to navigate, with no tidal influence. There are two main public launch points with parking: Dinky Dock on Lake Virginia in Winter Park and Fort Maitland Park in Maitland. Boats with motors must obtain a permit from either city, but this requirement does not apply to non-motorized vessels.

Visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of the lakes, which include lush scenery, birds, private homes, and historic estates. The Rollins College rowing team often practices on these waters. While motor boats and jet skis also use the lakes, it’s essential to stay vigilant.

Nearby points of interest include Rollins College, the Morse Museum of American Art, and the Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Garden. For those interested in rentals or guided tours, several options are available. Epic Paddle Adventures offers tours and rentals at Lake Ivanhoe in Orlando, while Paddleboard Orlando and Peace of Mind Kayak Tours and Rentals provide rentals and tours for exploring the Winter Park Chain of Lakes. The Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour offers guided boat tours only.

The Winter Park Chain of Lakes provides a peaceful escape with numerous recreational opportunities. Paddle through the canals, enjoy the stunning views, and explore the cultural attractions nearby for a memorable experience.