Destination trail: Withlacoochee State Trail
Cycling through ranch land, beautiful shade tree canopy, small towns, states parks, and stunning water views, makes the Withlacoochee ("With-la-COO-chee") State Trail (WST) worthy of being a destination ride.
The Withlacoochee ST runs 46 miles on a paved 12-foot wide trail. It’s worth the drive for a day ride or multi-day exploration.
The Withlacoochee Trail is nationally recognized. National Geographic's Traveler Magazine lists it as one of the top 20 trails in the United States. The World Wildlife Fund says the Withlacoochee is "one of the coolest places you've NEVER seen".
It’s an hour-or-less drive to a trailhead for Central and North Central Floridians, from Gainesville, Ocala, The Villages, Tampa, Lakeland and Orlando.
Numerous trailheads and parking give easy access. Mile markers and landmarks, as seen on the trail map help you plan just the right length for your cycling adventure.
The Withlacoochee ST opened in 1992, from an abandoned railroad bed. The trail is one of the longest rail trails in Florida. As with most old rail lines there are minimum road crossings or inclines to conquer.
Destination trails chosen by “The ibis Flyer” are those trails that rise to the level of being worth traveling to for the cycling experience. Most are in Florida; some in nearby states. They include road, gravel and MTB. You can find past e-newsletter posts about destination trails at “The ibis Flyer”.
The Withlacoochee ST offers you multiple cycling options to match your fitness level and time available. This quiet trail provides stunning vistas of old Florida marsh, freshwater lakes, cypress swamps, and pasture extending for miles in every direction.
Here are some great starting points along the Withlacoochee State Trail.
Dunnellon Trailhead: Located in Citrus Springs just south of Dunnellon, FL, the trail traverses three counties ending in the south in Trilby, FL, in Pasco County. This trailhead offers a more rural starting point with beautiful natural surroundings. Before or after being on the trail, you can explore bike-friendly Dunnellon.
To cool off, take a dip or stick your feet into Lake Hernando at the Hernando city park beach, just off the trail. If you’re hungry, Hernando, FL has some local eateries to try.
Inverness Trailhead: Located in the heart of Inverness, this trailhead offers ample parking and access to nearby amenities like local eateries and shops. Inverness is known for its chain of freshwater lakes known as the Tsala Apopka (sal-a-POP-ka). There are airboat rides if you want to explore the lakes and wildlife. Or consider taking a 30-minute drive from Inverness to Crystal River, FL to swim with the manatees.
Maybe the picturesque 17-mile round-trip ride from Inverness to Floral City would be to your liking.
Along this route is Fort Cooper State Park. Take a break on your ride and learn about some of Florida’s early history dating back to the early 1800’s. The interpretive kiosks help you understand why Florida State University has Seminoles as their mascot.
The Seminole Heritage Trail within Fort Cooper State Park provides an opportunity for both to see and learn about its history. As you walk or ride a 1.5-mile roundtrip path, four interpretive kiosks tell the story of the Seminole people and the trials they faced. Picnic areas, water and restrooms make for a nice break while overlooking scenic Fort Cooper Lake.
Floral City Trailhead: This charming town provides a scenic starting point with easy access to the historic Floral City. There are local eating establishments and lodging options.
Ridge Manor/Brookville Trailhead: Situated at the southern end of the trail, this trailhead is perfect for those looking to explore the quieter sections of the trail. Just off the trail to the west of Ridge Manor is Brooksville where you’ll find lodging options and you won’t walk out hungry from the Breakfast Station in Brooksville (for breakfast or lunch).
You can ride the Withlacoochee ST any time during the year, but the best seasons tend to be the fall and spring months. Here’s why:
Fall (mid-September to November): The weather is cooler and more comfortable for cycling. You’ll also get to enjoy the beautiful fall foliage, especially in areas like Floral City with its oak trees.
Spring (mid-February to May): This season brings mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers, making the trail vibrant and colorful. It’s also a great time for bird watching as many species are active.
Both seasons offer pleasant weather and stunning natural beauty, making your cycling experience even more enjoyable. Of course, in the summer or late-fall the trail has less walkers, runners and fellow cyclists.
Coming up Sunday, October 6, 2024 is a special event on the trail, the Cycle Lacoochee Bike Ride. Proceeds go to Friends of the Withlacoochee State Trail who help support, maintain, and promote the trail. You pick your distance from 14-100 miles. It’s a family friendly to avid cyclist event. Visit our companion website ibisrides.com for the listing of this event along with over 48 other cycling events happening in the coming months across Florida, Georgia and Alabama. ibisrides.com and “The ibis Flyer” e-newsletter keep you updated.
If you want to commemorate your ride on the trail, order the stylish 2024 Cycle Lacoochee Bike Ride cycling jersey.
The Florida State Parks manage the Withlacoochee Trail. Click the map for a link for more information and download a printable map of the trail.
Before planning your trail ride, check for the latest trail updates and information. During 2024 they are repaving part of the trail, so sections will be closed to through traffic. The best place for updates is the Facebook page of The Friends of the Withlacoochee State Trail.
As with any bike ride, bring along sufficient water to last between available water sources. Also, have a bike kit with an extra tube, tool and tire pump just in case of a flat or mechanical issue. And as always when riding wear a helmet, because falling off a bike happens in the blink of an eye, even on a paved trail.
Whether you're an avid cyclist, casual bike enthusiast or looking for a family-friendly bike outing, start planning a trip to the Withlacoochee State Trail. Put it on your calendar; invite a friend to join you and begin to look forward to the experience.
Ride often. Ride safe.
Bruce | Lead ibis
Visit our companion website ibisrides.com where avid Florida cyclists go to find cycling events, weekly rides, club rides and recommended destination routes. All in one place.