Hard to Say, Easy to Ride - Florida's Withlacoochee State Trail

Withlacoochee State Trail

Distance: 46 miles

Map

Florida’s most celebrated long-distance bike route is the Withlacoochee State Trail, a 46-mile ribbon of pavement that runs through the heart of the state. The trail begins in Citrus Springs, a quiet residential community north of Dunnellon where pine forests press close to the neighborhoods and the pace of life is unhurried. The northern trailhead is easy to reach and well-marked.

Take a break at the park, or stay a while

The first few miles are flat, shaded, and quiet. Inverness, near the midpoint, is the hub of activity along the route. The restored railroad depot anchors the town’s connection to the trail, and it has become a favorite spot for riders to pause. Just to the south, Fort Cooper State Park provides a different kind of break if you’re interested - camping under tall pines and a lake for cooling off.

Further along, the ride glides into Floral City. Here, the trail slips beneath a canopy of moss-draped oaks that arch overhead like a cathedral of branches.

A charming way to finish

The southern finish in Dade City brings the ride to a lively close. Unlike the sleepy start in Citrus Springs, Dade City is full of character, with a historic downtown built around its courthouse square. Antique shops, small cafés, and Southern restaurants line the streets, and the town’s friendly atmosphere makes it a rewarding place to rest after the ride.

The Withlacoochee is a favorite for its length, scenery, and easy grade, but riders should be prepared for a few drawbacks. Florida’s heat and humidity can make summer rides draining. The flatness, while beginner-friendly, can also feel monotonous to cyclists who prefer variety in terrain. Parts of the trail are popular with walkers and joggers, which can create crowded conditions on weekends and holidays. And because long sections pass through forest or rural countryside, services and rest stops are not evenly spaced.

Still, the Withlacoochee delivers what it promises: a nice, steady ride through central Florida’s landscapes, punctuated by small-town charm and a sense of quiet distance from the modern world.

Trail cycling in Florida: Start here

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