Escape to Walt's Wilderness tour coming to Walt Disney World

Walt Disney World is offering a new “Escape to Walt’s Wilderness” tour that will take you peacefully across Bay Lake from the Contemporary Resort to Fort Wilderness. Once there you’ll take a leisurely hike, ride in a horse drawn wagon and hear stories about Walt’s heritage in Central Florida.

You’ll begin your journey at Disney’s Contemporary Resort where you’ll board a pontoon boat while your guide shares stories about Walt’s love for the outdoors, nature and Central Florida. Many guests may not be aware that this is where Walt’s parents first met, so it held a special place in his heart.

Equipped with binoculars you’ll be attempting to seek out birds, eagles, dragonflies and lily pads like a true explorer enjoying the vast beauty of the environment.

“Once the boat is beached, the group is welcomed by a giant bonfire and camp-style breakfast. Locally sourced citrus salad, egg frittata, cinnamon rolls, biscuits, granola, coffee and juice make for a nice feast. And what’s a campfire without marshmallows for roasting. Next, a pair of field horses pulling a wagon enter the scene for transport to an archery lesson in a woodsy field at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. A short hike in the woods past the train tracks from the former Fort Wilderness Railroad is where we discover Walt’s fascination with trains.”

You’ll then travel to Tri-Circle-D Ranch where you’ll hear stories about how horses play a major role in Disney theme parks since Disneyland first opened in 1955. You’ll get to see horses and learn how they are cared for. The entire tour will take a half day trekking through the wilderness, while sharing stories and having a delicious breakfast.

The program is typically offered two days a week from 8 a.m.– 1 p.m. on select days. In July it is being offered on Wednesday and Thursday and should offer Monday and Friday tours in August. The cost is $116 including tax for ages 7 and older. Complimentary transportation to and from the experience is provided for guests staying at Disney owned and operated resort hotels. To book or for more information, call 407-WDW-PLAY (939-7529). Phone agent said this is currently offered in July and August as a test.