While avid bikers often think of tricky terrain as the ideal biking destination, Florida has much to offer beginning bikers and experts alike. Consider challenging yourself with muddy terrain, sand, and alligators!
Located not far from Sebring, Sun 'N' Lakes Park boasts five miles of rolling hill country trails perfect for novice bikers and seasoned veterans. Beginners will appreciate some of the nice dry trails while mid-level bikers will enjoy some of the obstacles that keep them from getting bored. And for the experts? Try tackling this terrain after a big rain and enjoy slipping and sliding in the mud! Be sure to pack bug spray, though. The insects can be vicious.
With 16-20 miles of marked trails to select from, Balm Boyette is also a fun place to go for a long bike ride. Beginners can choose flat, even trails and then boost their skill level by navigating some of the trails with rocks, tree roots, and sand as they gain their confidence. Take a map along and explore multiple trails. But don't forget the water bottles. You'll get some great exercise and don't want to get dehydrated.
Dyer Park near West Palm Beach has something for everyone. There are several distinctly different trails. The park is located on an old landfill. The first trail is about 3 miles long and goes up and down the hill all the way around it. Its pretty challenging with hairpin turns and steep inclines. The second trail runs around the outer edge of the park, but there are several technical trails that shoot off of it. There are also paved and gravel roads for equestrians. These trails are great for intermediate riders, who can also work on their skills with some of the technical side trails.
If a loop of twists, turns, and technical difficulties-including trees, stumps, roots, leaves, mud, and sand-intrigues you, head over toward Fernandina to tackle the 7-mile trail at Fort Clinch. Plan to bring $5 for admission unless you prefer to park near the beach and come in on your bike. Fort Clinch offers vending machines and has restrooms on the property, as well. Watch for bike trail signs and follow them to ensure you don't get off on the wrong track, because there are some parts of the trail that can be a bit confusing.
Lakeland boasts a 6-mile hard packed track with exciting technical challenges including jumps, finger loops, roller coaster drops, and alligators! Called Carter Road, it was once the location for a phosphate mine, and it creates a complete loop.
Another great trail in Alafia encompasses 10 miles of steep inclines and technical challenges for intermediate to experienced riders. You'll need to pay $2-$4 to park, but the area does offer rest rooms for your convenience and the trails are maintained nicely. Plan to get a map for this trek, though, as some of the trails aren't marked very well.
No matter how experienced-or inexperienced-you may be, Florida has fun and exciting bike trails you'll enjoy. But remember, Florida is one of the nation's hot spots. So bring-and drink-plenty of water to stay hydrated. And plan to have a blast! - 26706
Located not far from Sebring, Sun 'N' Lakes Park boasts five miles of rolling hill country trails perfect for novice bikers and seasoned veterans. Beginners will appreciate some of the nice dry trails while mid-level bikers will enjoy some of the obstacles that keep them from getting bored. And for the experts? Try tackling this terrain after a big rain and enjoy slipping and sliding in the mud! Be sure to pack bug spray, though. The insects can be vicious.
With 16-20 miles of marked trails to select from, Balm Boyette is also a fun place to go for a long bike ride. Beginners can choose flat, even trails and then boost their skill level by navigating some of the trails with rocks, tree roots, and sand as they gain their confidence. Take a map along and explore multiple trails. But don't forget the water bottles. You'll get some great exercise and don't want to get dehydrated.
Dyer Park near West Palm Beach has something for everyone. There are several distinctly different trails. The park is located on an old landfill. The first trail is about 3 miles long and goes up and down the hill all the way around it. Its pretty challenging with hairpin turns and steep inclines. The second trail runs around the outer edge of the park, but there are several technical trails that shoot off of it. There are also paved and gravel roads for equestrians. These trails are great for intermediate riders, who can also work on their skills with some of the technical side trails.
If a loop of twists, turns, and technical difficulties-including trees, stumps, roots, leaves, mud, and sand-intrigues you, head over toward Fernandina to tackle the 7-mile trail at Fort Clinch. Plan to bring $5 for admission unless you prefer to park near the beach and come in on your bike. Fort Clinch offers vending machines and has restrooms on the property, as well. Watch for bike trail signs and follow them to ensure you don't get off on the wrong track, because there are some parts of the trail that can be a bit confusing.
Lakeland boasts a 6-mile hard packed track with exciting technical challenges including jumps, finger loops, roller coaster drops, and alligators! Called Carter Road, it was once the location for a phosphate mine, and it creates a complete loop.
Another great trail in Alafia encompasses 10 miles of steep inclines and technical challenges for intermediate to experienced riders. You'll need to pay $2-$4 to park, but the area does offer rest rooms for your convenience and the trails are maintained nicely. Plan to get a map for this trek, though, as some of the trails aren't marked very well.
No matter how experienced-or inexperienced-you may be, Florida has fun and exciting bike trails you'll enjoy. But remember, Florida is one of the nation's hot spots. So bring-and drink-plenty of water to stay hydrated. And plan to have a blast! - 26706
About the Author:
PJ can be found riding her women's comfort bike on the greenways of Charlotte, NC. Of course she will be closely followed by her husband and 2 boys, all on their cruiser bikes. Drop her a line and say hello in TheComfortBikeShop.com.
