Most people don’t come to Walt Disney World® Resort expecting archery lessons, trail rides, or kayaking adventures. You might not even realize you can do all that — and more — right around the corner from your favorite Disney Parks. At The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort, an idyllic woodland hideaway within Walt Disney World® Resort, the great outdoors gets a touch of enchantment — the kind where slow mornings turn into spontaneous adventures, Chip ‘n’ Dale host evening campfires, and memorable moments are forged on the front porch.
When you stay at The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort, here’s what’s waiting outside your cabin door:
Paddling through lakes and streams
Many lakes, ponds, and streams in Central Florida are good for paddling, and Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground is no exception. Rent a canoe or kayak at the Bike Barn near the Meadow Swimmin’ Pool, launch into the Resort’s tranquil waterways, and glide among cypress trees, waterfowl, and other wildlife. You might even spot a real-life Bambi along the way.
Putting your fishing skills to the test
The same waterways that are perfect for paddling are also great for casting a line. Enjoy dockside fishing on your own, grabbing all the gear you need from the Bike Barn, or book a guided fishing excursion from Fort Wilderness Marina. Either way, you’ll be reeling in largemouth bass (and releasing them, per Walt Disney World® Resort’s policy).
Pedaling through the pines
Naturally, the Bike Barn also has bicycles for rent — perfect for exploring the flora-filled grounds by land. Once you lace up your closed-toed shoes, you’ve got options: stick to the popular, paved one-mile bike path, which runs around the perimeter of the Resort and to the nearby Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, or take to the many off-road trails, winding between pine trees and palmettos.
Navigating trails on an all-terrain Segway® X2 or a golf cart
One of the most unique activities at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort, the guided Wilderness Back Trail Adventure takes Guests ages 16 and older on all-terrain Segway® X2s through the Resort’s scenic backwoods. You’ll maneuver your way on paved paths and woodland trails alike, stopping for photos with the horses at Tri-Circle-D Ranch and the beautiful Bay Lake. As if all the natural beauty wasn’t enough on its own, your guide will share Disney and nature-based fun facts along the way. It’s safe to say, there’s nothing quite like this off-roading adventure anywhere else at Walt Disney World® Resort.
Looking for another unique way to get around Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort? Rent a golf cart for your crew and decorate it to add a touch of personal style to your trail transport. It’s practically a Resort tradition.
Saddling up for a scenic horseback ride
After catching a glimpse of the Tri-Circle-D Ranch during the Wilderness Back Trail Adventure, plan a proper visit to make a new equestrian friend. Home to nearly 100 happy horses, this ranch is a dream for animal lovers. Stop by to say hello or book a trail ride (limited to Guests ages nine and older who are at least 48 inches tall) to explore the beauty of the Resort on horseback. As you trot through Florida woodlands, keep your eyes peeled for deer, rabbits, ducks, and more.
If younger riders want their own equestrian experience, the Resort also offers pony rides for kids between ages three and nine. Once your little one is saddled up, an adult from your party will lead the pony around a designated course. It’s a perfect gentle introduction to the joys of horseback riding, Disney style.
Enjoying a storybook carriage ride
Want to get a taste of what it feels like to be a Disney Princess? Swap the saddle for a carriage seat on one of Tri-Circle-D Ranch’s in-demand carriage rides. During the 25-minute ride, you and your group will meander through the nature oasis that is Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort. And if you happen to be visiting for the holidays, the festive décor — and alternative sleigh ride setup — make the experience all the merrier.
Trying your hand at archery
Archery is one of the Resort’s most popular activities — and for good reason. Officially called the Fort Wilderness Archery Experience, it allows Guests ages seven and older to learn how to use a compound bow with the help of an experienced instructor. Before you know it, you’ll be hitting the bullseye.
Toasting marshmallows with cheeky chipmunks
The Chip ‘n’ Dale Campfire Sing-A-Long is another Resort favorite. Most nights at 8 PM, Guests gather ‘round the campfire for s’mores and campfire songs while our chipmunk friends, Chip ‘n’ Dale, make appearances at the cozy, crackling event. Stick around after the sing-along for a family-friendly Disney movie under the stars.
Watching Bay Lake light up
The nightly Electrical Water Pageant® (weather permitting) is a brightly lit water parade that winds its way around Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake. You’re so close to the magic at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort that you’ll have a front-row seat for the show. Find a spot at Clementine Beach and enjoy the sight of twinkling floats drifting by. This is also a great spot for catching the fireworks at Magic Kingdom® Park.
Settling in at the coziest of cabins
After a day filled with outdoor adventure, The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort are the perfect place to come “home” to. Each of the modern cabins sleeps six, with plenty of room for the whole family and all kinds of comfortable amenities — a full kitchen and dining area, a private patio with a charcoal grill and picnic table, and floor-to-ceiling windows, to name a few.
It’s the ideal blend of nature and indulgence — and it’s just a short bus or boat ride away from the Theme Parks, making it easy to add even more Disney magic to your already enchanting wilderness itinerary.
Certain activities and experiences require additional fees and reservations may be necessary.
As to Disney properties/artwork: ©Disney
