Florida, with its stunning landscapes and year-round sunshine, is a paradise for cyclists. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just starting out, the Sunshine State offers a fantastic network of paved bike trails. If you’re searching for “Paved Bike Trails Near Me” in Florida, you’ve come to the right place. From coastal paths with breathtaking ocean views to tranquil routes winding through lush forests, Florida has something for every cyclist seeking smooth, paved surfaces. Let’s explore some of the best regions and locations to find your perfect paved bike trail adventure.
Northwest Florida: Exploring Paved Paths in the Panhandle
Northwest Florida, also known as the Panhandle, boasts a unique blend of natural beauty and charming towns. For those looking for paved bike trails, this region offers a variety of options, often within or near state parks and forests, making for scenic and enjoyable rides.
Apalachicola National Forest
While primarily known for its natural, unpaved trails, the areas surrounding Apalachicola National Forest offer paved roads suitable for cycling. Explore the quieter roads around the forest for a peaceful ride immersed in nature. Always check local maps and park information for designated paved bike routes.
Blackwater River State Forest
Similar to Apalachicola, Blackwater River State Forest itself is more geared towards off-road cycling. However, the paved roads leading to and around the forest, especially near towns like Holt and Munson, can provide options for paved bike trails. These routes often offer glimpses of the forest’s beauty and the surrounding countryside.
Gulf Islands National Seashore
While the Seashore is famed for its beaches, the developed areas often feature paved pathways perfect for a leisurely bike ride. Enjoy a paved bike trail experience with stunning views of the Gulf Coast. Check for designated bike paths within park boundaries for safe and scenic routes.
Eglin Air Force Base
Though access might be restricted in certain areas, the region around Eglin Air Force Base can offer paved road cycling opportunities. Explore the public roads outside of the base perimeter for longer rides and connect to nearby towns and natural areas.
St. Marks NWR
St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge is a haven for wildlife and offers paved roads and trails suitable for cycling. Explore the refuge’s scenic routes on your bike and enjoy the chance to spot birds and other wildlife along your paved bike trail adventure.
North Florida: Discovering Paved Trails in the Springs Region
North Florida is characterized by its stunning natural springs, historic towns, and diverse landscapes. This region is increasingly developing paved bike trails, often converting former railway lines into scenic paths, perfect for exploring the area.
Palatka-Lake Butler State Trail
This is a prime example of a paved bike trail in North Florida. Following a former railroad corridor, the Palatka-Lake Butler Trail offers a long, flat, and paved surface ideal for all skill levels. It runs between Palatka and Lake Butler, passing through varied scenery and small towns.
Suwannee River Wilderness Trail
While the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail is primarily a water trail, connecting to it often involves paved roads in surrounding towns. Explore the paved roads in areas like Live Oak, White Springs, and Branford to access points along the river and enjoy cycling in this natural setting.
Osceola National Forest
Like other National Forests in Florida, Osceola offers paved and unpaved roads. Seek out the paved roads within and bordering the forest for paved bike trail opportunities. These routes provide a chance to experience the forest’s tranquility and connect to nearby communities.
Timucuan Preserve
The Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve near Jacksonville offers a mix of environments and potentially paved trails within its different sections. Explore the paved paths in areas like the Theodore Roosevelt Area or along the St. Johns River for a paved bike trail experience with historical and natural significance.
Central Florida: Paved Bike Trail Hotspot
Central Florida is a cycling mecca, boasting numerous paved bike trails, including long-distance trails and scenic local routes. From coastal trails to routes through citrus groves and forests, this region is a top choice for paved cycling adventures.
Coast to Coast Trail
The Coast to Coast Trail is a flagship paved bike trail in Central Florida. While not entirely paved yet, significant sections are, particularly in Central Florida. This ambitious trail aims to eventually connect coast to coast across the state, offering long-distance paved cycling opportunities.
Cross Florida Greenway
The Cross Florida Greenway features a substantial section of paved bike trail, offering a fantastic route through the heart of Central Florida. This well-maintained trail passes through diverse landscapes and is a popular choice for both recreational and serious cyclists.
Withlacoochee State Trail
The Withlacoochee State Trail is another standout paved bike trail in Central Florida. Following a former railroad line, this long and scenic trail runs through the Withlacoochee State Forest and beyond, offering miles of smooth, paved riding.
Walt Disney World
Even within the magic of Walt Disney World, you can find paved bike trails at resorts and connecting areas. Enjoy leisurely rides through beautifully landscaped areas, perfect for families and those looking for relaxed cycling.
Canaveral National Seashore
Canaveral National Seashore offers paved roads and pathways, especially in developed areas like Playalinda Beach. Enjoy a paved bike trail experience with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Kennedy Space Center.
Merritt Island NWR
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge provides paved roads and trails, offering excellent birdwatching opportunities and scenic views of the Indian River Lagoon. Cycling on these paved bike trails allows you to explore the refuge at a comfortable pace.
Ocala National Forest
While Ocala National Forest is known for off-road adventures, paved roads do exist within and around the forest. Seek out these paved routes for cycling, offering a chance to experience the unique sand pine scrub habitat.
Withlacoochee State Forest
Besides the State Trail, Withlacoochee State Forest has paved roads within its boundaries. Explore these for shorter paved bike trail loops and combine them with sections of the longer Withlacoochee State Trail.
Southwest Florida: Coastal Paved Bike Trail Bliss
Southwest Florida is renowned for its beautiful beaches and coastal scenery. The region offers fantastic paved bike trails that often run along the coastline, providing stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and access to charming beach towns.
Ding Darling NWR
J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island features the Wildlife Drive, a paved road open to cyclists (check for closures and fees). This paved bike trail offers incredible wildlife viewing opportunities and scenic views of mangrove estuaries.
Charlotte Harbor
The Charlotte Harbor area, including towns like Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, has developed excellent paved bike trails. Many of these trails run along the waterfront, providing beautiful harbor views and connecting parks and attractions.
South Florida: Everglades and Lake Okeechobee Paved Paths
South Florida offers unique cycling experiences, from the vast Everglades to the shores of Lake Okeechobee. While some areas are more natural, you can still find paved bike trails that allow you to explore these distinct landscapes.
Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail
The Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail (LOST) is a partially paved bike trail circumnavigating Lake Okeechobee. While sections may be unpaved or adjacent to roads, portions offer dedicated paved paths with expansive views of the lake and surrounding agriculture.
Big Cypress National Preserve
While Big Cypress is largely wilderness, paved roads like the Tamiami Trail (US 41) run through it. Cycling along the paved Tamiami Trail provides a unique way to experience the edge of the Everglades ecosystem (exercise caution due to traffic).
Southeast Florida: Urban and Coastal Paved Trails
Southeast Florida is a densely populated region with vibrant cities and stunning coastlines. Here, you can find a mix of urban paved bike trails and scenic coastal routes, offering diverse cycling experiences.
Ocean to Lake Greenway
The Ocean to Lake Greenway is an ambitious project, with sections already developed as paved bike trails. This greenway aims to eventually connect the Atlantic coast to Lake Okeechobee, offering a long-distance paved route through Southeast Florida.
Biscayne National Park
Biscayne National Park, primarily water-based, offers limited paved areas on mainland sections like Convoy Point. While not extensive, you can find short paved bike trails to explore the park’s mainland areas and enjoy views of Biscayne Bay.
Biscayne Bay
The areas around Biscayne Bay, including cities like Miami and Key Biscayne, offer numerous paved bike trails and waterfront paths. Enjoy urban cycling with stunning bay views and access to parks and attractions.
Florida Keys: Overseas Heritage Trail
The Florida Keys boast the iconic Overseas Heritage Trail. While not entirely paved off-road, significant portions are paved pathways running alongside the Overseas Highway (US 1). Cycling the Overseas Heritage Trail offers unparalleled views of the turquoise waters and islands of the Keys.
Conclusion:
Finding “paved bike trails near me” in Florida is easier than you might think. From the Panhandle to the Keys, Florida offers a diverse range of paved cycling options. Whether you’re seeking a long-distance adventure, a scenic coastal ride, or a leisurely family outing, explore these regions and locations to discover your perfect paved bike trail in the Sunshine State. Remember to always check local trail conditions and regulations before heading out, and enjoy the ride!
