Outdoor cycling offers a fantastic blend of exercise and exploration, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of your surroundings. Since moving to Florida, I’ve been captivated by the vibrant cycling culture here, with numerous people enjoying bike rides in their neighborhoods and exploring the extensive network of bike trails around Central Florida. My initial experience on a section of the Seminole-Wekiva Trail, with its shaded paths, smooth surfaces, and art-adorned fences, was truly delightful and sparked my curiosity to discover more. The options for bike trails near Orlando seem endless.
To gain deeper insights into the premier bike trails in Central Florida, I consulted Jim Broman from David’s World Cycle. With 30 years of serving the Central Florida cycling community and boasting 17 locations nationwide, including eight in Central Florida, David’s World Cycle is an authority on the best local cycling spots.
Here are some of Broman’s top recommendations for experiencing the best Orlando Bike Trails:
Exploring Top Orlando Bike Trails: Expert Picks
1. West Orange Trail: A Scenic Ride Through History
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The West Orange Trail presents a 22-mile journey across gently rolling hills, blending rural and urban landscapes seamlessly. For the quintessential experience, Broman suggests starting and ending in downtown Winter Garden, right on Plant Street. Heading west towards Kilarney station, cyclists can anticipate a fulfilling ride. Make sure to factor in time to savor lunch at the unique restaurants and pubs in Winter Garden post-ride. The Rails-to-Trails Conservancy recognizes this trail as one of Florida’s most popular rail-trails, and for good reason. Located just 15 minutes northwest of downtown Orlando, the trail gracefully winds through tree-lined Oakland before entering the charming downtown Winter Garden. Beyond, a 10-mile stretch unfolds through lightly wooded areas interspersed with occasional orange groves, culminating in the section that meanders through Apopka.
Trail Start and Stop Points: Killarney Station at Old County Road 50 and Lake Boulevard in Oakland, Orange County Line, and East Welch Road and Rock Springs Road/ State Road 435 in Apopka.
Trail Surfaces: Concrete, asphalt, dirt, and wood chips, offering a varied riding experience. Find more details here.
2. Little Econ Greenway Trail: East Orlando’s Natural Gem
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For those new to cycling or seeking a shorter, more relaxed ride, the Little Econ Greenway Trail in East Orlando is an ideal choice. Spanning 8 miles, it gracefully follows sections of the Little Econ River, providing picturesque views and a chance to connect with nature. Starting at Blanchard Park or hopping on anywhere along its path, riders are treated to the stunning scenery and abundant Florida wildlife, as noted by reviews on Traillink.com. Keep an eye out for deer, osprey, and even alligators! Adding to its charm, the trail also features a delightful butterfly garden. This trail offers a perfect introduction to Orlando bike trails, showcasing the natural beauty within the city.
Trail Start and Stop Points: North Forsyth Road (near Partridge Lane) and North Alafaya Trail and Science Drive in Orlando.
Trail Surface: Smooth asphalt, perfect for an easy ride. Find more details here.
3. Cross Seminole Trail: Connecting Communities Through Nature
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Stretching 23 miles from Longwood to Oviedo, the Cross Seminole Trail offers a substantial ride with diverse landscapes. Broman highlights the section from Big Tree Park east to State Road 434 as particularly scenic. This segment immerses riders in undeveloped natural areas along Soldiers Creek, progressing south towards State Road 434. Cyclists can easily take a break at the Winter Springs town center for refreshments. While TrailLink.com reviews suggest it’s great for relaxed rides, be aware of potential stops and occasional confusing signage. This trail also acts as a hub, connecting to the Seminole Wekiva Trail to the west and the Cady Way Trail to the south, expanding your Orlando bike trails exploration options.
Trail Start and Stop Points: Seminole/Orange County border and Lake Mary (Greenway Boulevard). Multiple trailheads provide access: Southern section at Aloma Avenue and Howell Branch Road intersection; Black Hammock trailhead off State Road 434/Sanford Oviedo Road; Layer Elementary School trailhead off SR 419; Lake Mary trailhead via I-4 East to Lake Mary Boulevard.
Trail Surface: Asphalt, ensuring a smooth and consistent ride. Find more details here.
4. Seminole Wekiva Trail: Art and Nature Combined
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Spanning 14 to 17 miles of flat, smooth terrain, the Seminole Wekiva Trail is a local favorite for longer rides. A standout feature, as emphasized by Broman, is the art installations along the trail north of E.E. Williamson Road. The shaded path enhances the experience, making it comfortable even on sunny days. Continuing north past the Lake Mary Boulevard underpass, the trail passes through Seminole County’s business district, home to AAA’s world headquarters. Conveniently located, you can take a break along Lake Mary Blvd for lunch, a smoothie, or even a visit to David’s World Cycle. Starting from Altamonte Springs, as noted by TrailLink.com, you’ll cross a wooden bridge at the San Sebastian Prado trailhead, leading into scenic residential areas and Spanish moss-draped woodlands. The trail then transitions to shopping areas for amenities before a pedestrian bridge over I-4 connects to the Cross-Seminole Trail, creating even more Orlando bike trails connectivity.
Trail Start and Stop Points: Markham Road near County Road 46A in Longwood and State Road 436 near Laurel Street in Altamonte Springs.
Trail Surfaces: Asphalt, providing a consistently smooth and enjoyable surface. Find more details here.
5. Spring to Spring Trail: Volusia County’s Scenic Escape
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Venture slightly outside Orlando to southwest Volusia County to discover the 17-mile Spring to Spring Trail, located in DeBary and Deltona. Starting at Lake Monroe park in DeBary along the St. Johns River, this trail, according to Broman, is perfect for a relaxed cycling day. The path meanders through diverse ecosystems, including cypress swamps, pine hammocks, and prairies. Heading east towards Deltona, the trail traverses heavily shaded rural areas north of Lake Monroe. For a shorter ride, Green Springs park along Enterprise Osteen Road serves as an excellent starting point. Traillink.com reviewers often praise this trail as a hidden gem, ideal for a weekend cycling escape from Orlando.
Trail Start and Stop Points: W. Baxter Street in De Leon Springs and Providence Blvd. in Deltona.
Trail Surfaces: Asphalt, well-maintained for comfortable riding. Find more details here.
More Orlando Bike Trails to Explore in Central Florida
Rails-to-Trails Conservancy’s TrailLink also highlights additional top trails in Central Florida, further expanding your choices for Orlando bike trails adventures. While agreeing with Broman’s recommendations, they suggest considering these trails as well:
Gainesville-Hawthorne State Park Trail: Wildlife Encounters on Wheels
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Just south of Gainesville, the Gainesville-Hawthorne State Park Trail runs through Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, offering a unique wildlife viewing experience. Trailside overlooks provide views of the prairie, home to bison, wild horses, and alligators, as noted by TrailLink.com. This 16.5-mile paved path borders the Lochloosa Wildlife Management Area, making it a haven for nature lovers exploring Orlando bike trails and beyond.
Trail Start: 3400 SE 15 St. Gainesville, Fla. 32641 Find more details here.
South Lake and Lake Minneola Scenic Trail: Hills and Lakeside Views
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For cyclists seeking stunning scenery and varied terrain, the South Lake and Lake Minneola Scenic Trail is a must-try among Orlando bike trails. This 13-mile paved pathway showcases some of Central Florida’s most spectacular vistas and charming neighborhoods. Experience thrilling hills and breathtaking lake views as the trail skirts the southern shore of Lake Minneola, also providing access to a beach and swimming area.
Trail Start: West Orange Trail at Killarney Station/Old County Road 50 and Lake Boulevard (Oakland, Orange County line) and County Road 565A and Silver Eagle Road (Clermont). Find more details here.
General James A. Van Fleet State Trail: Immerse Yourself in Florida’s Green Swamp
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The 29-mile Van Fleet State Trail offers a journey through Central Florida’s Green Swamp, recognized by TrailLink as one of Florida’s most scenic rural landscapes. This trail provides a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty just outside of Orlando, making it a worthwhile addition to your Orlando bike trails exploration.
Trail Start: 7683 Berkley Road Polk City, Florida
Trail Surface: Asphalt, ensuring a smooth ride through the scenic swamp.
Withlacoochee State Trail: Florida’s Longest Paved Trail
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Extending 46 miles parallel to the Withlacoochee River, a designated state paddling trail, the Withlacoochee State Trail is one of Florida’s longest paved trails. While a bit further from Orlando, it’s a destination trail worth considering for dedicated cyclists looking to explore beyond the immediate Orlando bike trails area.
Trail Start: 3100 S. Old Floral City Road Inverness, Florida
Trail Surface: Paved, offering an extensive and smooth cycling experience.
For an even broader selection of trails, TrailLink lists over two dozen trails in the Central Florida area. Explore more at traillink.com.
Additionally, bikeorlando.net provides a comprehensive list of 30 bike trails to choose from, giving you even more options for discovering Orlando bike trails.
For group rides and trail events, Bowman suggests checking out Half-Fast Social cycling on Google for their trail ride calendar, available on both Facebook and Meetup.
Do you have a favorite trail or place to ride around Orlando? Share your recommendations in the comments below!
See you on the trails soon and happy Orlando bike trails exploring!
