Map Of Florida Bike Trails
Introduction
Florida is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, and biking is one of the best ways to experience the state’s natural beauty. With over 80 state parks, numerous nature preserves, and miles of coastline, Florida offers plenty of biking opportunities for all skill levels. In this guide, we’ll explore the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, and outdoor adventures along Florida’s most scenic bike trails.
Top Attractions
Walt Disney World Resort
Located in Orlando, Walt Disney World Resort is one of the top attractions in Florida. The resort is home to four theme parks, two water parks, and a variety of entertainment options. Bikers can explore the resort’s expansive grounds on the Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort Trail, a 2.3-mile trail that winds through the wilderness and offers stunning views of the resort’s natural surroundings.
Everglades National Park
The Everglades National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest tropical wilderness areas in the United States. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including alligators, panthers, and manatees. Bikers can explore the park’s many trails, including the Shark Valley Trail, a 15-mile loop that offers breathtaking views of the park’s unique landscape.
Hidden Gems
Sanibel Island
Sanibel Island is a small island located off the southwest coast of Florida. The island is known for its pristine beaches and beautiful sunsets, but it also offers some great biking opportunities. The Sanibel Island Shared Use Paths are a network of paved bike paths that wind through the island’s natural areas and offer stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Withlacoochee State Trail
The Withlacoochee State Trail is a 46-mile trail that runs through central Florida. The trail passes through several small towns and offers scenic views of the Withlacoochee River. Bikers can stop at one of the trail’s many picnic areas or fishing spots and enjoy a peaceful break in the great outdoors.
Food Scene
Miami Food Tour
Miami is known for its vibrant food scene, and a food tour is a great way to experience the city’s culinary offerings. The Miami Food Tours offer a variety of options, including a bike tour that takes bikers through some of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods and allows them to sample some of the best food in town.
St. Augustine Food Tour
St. Augustine is the oldest city in the United States and is known for its rich history and charming architecture. The St. Augustine Food Tour offers a bike tour that takes bikers through the city’s historic district and allows them to sample some of the city’s best food and drink.
Outdoor Adventures
Key West Bike Tour
Key West is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, and a bike tour is a great way to explore the island’s many attractions. The Key West Bike Tour offers a variety of options, including a sunset tour that takes bikers through the island’s picturesque streets and offers stunning views of the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico.
Big Cypress National Preserve
The Big Cypress National Preserve is located in southern Florida and is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including panthers, alligators, and black bears. Bikers can explore the park’s many trails, including the Loop Road Scenic Drive, a 26-mile drive that offers stunning views of the park’s unique landscape.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Bike Rentals
One of the best ways to save money on a biking trip in Florida is to rent a bike instead of bringing your own. Many bike rental companies offer affordable rates, and some even offer guided tours that can help you save money on transportation costs.
Camping
Camping is a great way to save money on lodging while exploring Florida’s bike trails. Many state parks offer camping facilities, and some even offer bike-in campsites that are located near the trails.
Family-Friendly Activities
Fort De Soto Park
Fort De Soto Park is located in St. Petersburg and is known for its white sand beaches and crystal clear water. The park offers a variety of family-friendly activities, including bike rentals, fishing, and kayaking.
Legacy Trail
The Legacy Trail is a 10-mile trail that runs through Sarasota County and offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. The trail is perfect for families, with plenty of picnic areas and rest stops along the way.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Apalachicola National Forest
The Apalachicola National Forest is located in northern Florida and is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including black bears and bald eagles. Bikers can explore the park’s many trails, including the St. Marks Historic Railroad State Trail, a 20-mile trail that passes through some of the park’s most scenic areas.
Old Florida Heritage Highway
The Old Florida Heritage Highway is a 48-mile road that runs along the Gulf of Mexico and offers stunning views of the state’s natural beauty. Bikers can explore the road’s many small towns and historic sites, including the Indian Pass Raw Bar, a local favorite that serves up some of the best seafood in the area.
Natural Wonders
Myakka River State Park
Myakka River State Park is located in Sarasota County and is known for its diverse range of wildlife, including alligators, panthers, and deer. Bikers can explore the park’s many trails, including the Myakka River Trail, a 7-mile trail that offers stunning views of the park’s natural beauty.
Big Talbot Island State Park
Big Talbot Island State Park is located in Jacksonville and is known for its beautiful beaches and unique rock formations. Bikers can explore the park’s many trails, including the Blackrock Trail, a 0.9-mile trail that offers stunning views of the park’s unique landscape.
Vibrant Nightlife
Miami Beach
Miami Beach is known for its vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. Bikers can explore the city’s many attractions during the day and then hit the town at night for some fun and excitement.
Key West
Key West is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars and clubs located throughout the island. Bikers can explore the island’s many attractions during the day and then hit the town at night for some fun and excitement.
Local Markets
Ybor City Saturday Market
The Ybor City Saturday Market is located in Tampa and offers a variety of locally grown produce, handmade crafts, and artisanal foods. Bikers can stop by the market on Saturday mornings and stock up on fresh fruits and vegetables, baked goods, and other treats.
St. Petersburg Saturday Morning Market
The St. Petersburg Saturday Morning Market is one of the largest markets in Florida and offers a wide variety of locally grown produce, handmade crafts, and artisanal foods. Bikers can stop by the market on Saturday mornings and enjoy live music, food trucks, and other entertainment.
Beaches and Mountains
Hillsborough River State Park
Hillsborough River State Park is located in Thonotosassa and is known for its beautiful beaches and crystal clear water. Bikers can explore the park’s many trails, including the Hillsborough River Trail, a 6.8-mile trail that offers stunning views of the park’s natural beauty.
Mount Dora
Mount Dora is a small town located in central Florida and is known for its scenic beauty and charming architecture. Bikers can explore the town’s many attractions, including the Mount Dora Scenic Trail, a 1.5-mile trail that offers stunning views of the town’s natural surroundings.
Cultural Immersion
Little Havana
Little Havana is a neighborhood located in Miami and is known for its vibrant Cuban culture. Bikers can explore the neighborhood’s many attractions, including the Calle Ocho Walk of Fame, a sidewalk that features stars honoring famous Cuban-Americans.
Sarasota’s Cultural District
Sarasota’s Cultural District is located in downtown Sarasota and is known for its vibrant arts scene. Bikers can explore the district’s many attractions, including the Sarasota Opera House, the Sarasota Ballet, and the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art.
Art and Music Scene
Art Basel Miami Beach
Art Basel Miami Beach is an annual art fair that takes place in Miami Beach and attracts art enthusiasts from around the world. Bikers can explore the fair’s many exhibits and installations and enjoy live music and other entertainment.