Withlacoochee State Trail Reviews    

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Flat, shaded but with few views of the river

By bthomamd in February, 2013

I rode this trail in both directions the 7-9th of February 2013. Well maintained, shady, flat and there are amble places for rest stops but was disappointment in the paucity of river views. The bicycle shops in Inverness and Floral City were not very inviting or acted very interested in having patrons in their shops.
Stayed in Inverness at the Central Motel and it was very convenient for riding the trail and the room was large enough for bicycles.
Rode the Withlacoochee Bay Trail on the 10th of Feb. in route to ride portions of the Nature Coast Trail. Easy trail and very scenic riding along the barge canal to the Gulf.

Overall and enjoyable bicycling trip to this area of Florida.

Great trail

By balto in November, 2012

I started at the Ridge Manor Trailhead, going north. I did 13 miles going up and then went back to start. About 5 minutes after I started a raccoon crossed the trail in fron of me, did not have time to picture it. Then after aprox another 5 mins a black snake crossed the trail and again coul not picture it. The snake was about 5-6 feet long and was very fast. Another 10 more mins, after the snake, an armadillo was on the side of the trail and was not scared of me. I took a picture with my cell phone. I am planning to go back again. I have been to a couples of nice trail, but this one is very interesting, good parking, good id sign, long etc.

Adventorous ride!

By jmrodz in October, 2012

I've been living in Tampa for 1 1/2 year. I became a rider before coming from San Juan,Puerto Rico. Its been amazing riding here because in PR there is no many trails and the congestion of vehicles makes it very difficult. I diceded to visit with my friends differents trail and I picked this on. Although it was an hour and a half driving it was worth it. We started at Brooksville and rode north until Inverness. It was a beautiful day, gourgeous views. I had a flat tire (twice same tire) and I recieved help twice. It was a great ride an experience.... and waiting for another visit/ride.

Great Experience!

By bluejaytc in March, 2012

I rode the Withlacoochee trail for over a hundred miles, going up and down. This was from January 31 to February 7, 2012. The trail is what brought me to the area, and I stayed near Brooksville and most of the time, in Inverness. What a contrast to the huge amount of traffic around Orlando and the crush of people in DisneyWorld! This trail was peaceful, beautiful, and quiet. I loved hearing only the birds singing! As a woman alone, I felt very safe on this trail. It is against the law here to be on the trail after dark and several times I saw the Crime Watch patrol vehicle go up and down the trail. I stopped my bicycle frequently to do many geocaches along the trail. Seeing my bike on the side of the road, many people going by asked if I was all right or needed any help. This was a great vacation for a northerner from cold country, and I would highly recommend this trail.

Very Pleasantly Surprised

By rballruss in December, 2011

As someone relatively new to cycling, I was invited by friends to go for a ride. We drove to Inverness and started our ride from there. There is a nice park with restroom facilities and ample safe parking. We headed North towards Dunnellon for 16 miles where the trail ends, and then headed back. This Saturday ride in December produced a number of bikers, walkers, and three turtles on the trail. We didn't see any other wildlife but I have heard it's not surprising to a snake or two or even a gator sprawled across or near the trail. Our ride was very leisurely, very straight, and lacked any concerns about hills. I will return and experience the other 30 miles of the trail that lie to the South of Inverness. If you are looking for a peaceful ride amidst the wonders of nature, try this trail!

Top notch trail, top notch people.

By TimBee in March, 2011

This was my third time on the Withlacoochee and I finally did it all. The scenery is terrific with all the lush vegetation and bucolic country towns. There are nice rest stops spaced every few miles. The southern end seemed more scenic & peaceful. I met up with the "Withlacoochee Bike Riders" in Inverness which made the riding even better. If you hate hills this is definitely the trail for you. This part of Florida has the "theme parks" beat by a long shot.

Memories of Florida

By rgolding in February, 2011

Traveling to a "Florida Winter Conference", we ventured on to the Withlacoochee Trail because of our Rails-Trails book. Very useful to have for the region you are driving through. The description was good enough to warrant a look and the time to stop driving was right. What a delight. Sunshine, water, and green enveloped us as we adjusted from the frozen north. The Spanish Moss and people not covered in 20 layers is as welcome as the smooth pavement, pleasant smiles and the facilities of the Sun Cycle Center in Inverness, Fl. Highly recommend it. Even recommended it to ourselves and road another 20 miles on our way north. We will visit this place again. Great Golden Corral right down the road for stokin up.

The best trail in Florida

By gaylereed in February, 2011

Being from Colorado, and now living on Florida, I longed to find a nice paved trail closed to anything motorized. Once we discovered this trail, it quickly became our favorite to ride. Although we have to drive for 4 hours (within the speed limit) less if in a hurry, we frequent the Withlacoochee State Trail as often as possible. You can spend an hour or all day on the trail. It's fun to ride though all the towns connected to the trail as well. We always stay in Inverness so we can eat at The McLeod Bistro. Their food is incredible! Sometimes, if we are near Flora City, we swing into The Shamrock Inn. They have excellent burgers! The trail never seems crowed even if there is an organized ride with hundreds of participants. You'll always see some wildlife. There are plenty of places to rest, plenty of places to top off your water bottles and plenty of points of interest. 46 miles or 92 miles RT of beautiful riding! What could be better?

Withlacoochee State Trail... Great!!!!

By jaredcrenshaw13 in February, 2011

What a wonderful trip... started around 930 am still foggy and slightly chilly but fantastic!!!! Traffic was very minimal and roads that were crossed were county roads. Only mistake was completing the entire trail...yikes 92 miles and wow we were tired... but oh well it sure was fun.

September Ride from mile marker 46 to 0

By coffman1 in October, 2010

I spent a week plus vacation in the area this September and rode the trail 7 of the 9 days. It was fun! I rode in the mornings all but one of the days and never found it crowded - I could ride at speed with only the intersections to slow you down.

Sharing the trail: there were cyclists, walkers, runners and skaters, but as I mentioned above; they were not crowding the trail. Everyone was exceptionally courteous.

Wildlife: I saw the normal squirrels, bunnies and birds but one morning ran across a bunch of wild turkeys (pretty cool) and then there were the snakes. I only saw three; two black snakes that scooted across the trail so fast I couldn't even get my camera out - both were about 5 feet long. One was about 6 miles south or the northern trailhead and the other was south of Inverness, I don't remember the mile marker. The one I remember really well however was a 7 foot rattlesnake (no joking) sunning himself just north of Ridge Manor Trail head (between 40 and 39 when travelling southbound). A recumbent rider and I came upon stretched out lengthwise across the trail! We slid by him (on his tail end of course) and he never once moved. We were so startled we never stopped to try and take a photo (darn), but how cool to see such a beautiful snake up close!

I rode that section several times more during the week (camera ready this time) but never saw him again. Next year I'm planning to come back to the area but will tie my vacation to the Annual Trail Ride the first weekend in October.

Northern section

By TimBee in January, 2010

I rode this again in mid-Dec '09 starting from the northern end trailhead (which was quite a ways off the main road) to Inverness. Unfortunately, it was cool & rainy so I ended the ride there. A nice segment except for lots of road crossings with traffic. In Hernando you have to cross a busy road & jog around to get back onto it--best to walk your bike here. Maybe next trip I'll be able to finish the southern portion of the trail which seemed to be a little more scenic.

Great Ride

By unogreatdad in December, 2009

Most of the trail is through relatively sparsely populated areas with few cross roads, making it a safe and steady ride. With the trail being 46 miles long, a up and back ride takes you just short of a century ride (92 miles). The scenery is great. Slow down and enjoy it.

Rails to Trails of the Withlacoochee Citizen's Service Organization

By withlacoochee in January, 2009

It was mentioned in one of the items that there was a trail guide available outlining the Withlacoochee State Trail. That is correct, our CSO compiled a book of the 46-mile trail, breaking each section of the trail down into small incriments and not only giving any history known of the area, but also lodging, eating establishments, etc. If anyone is interested in the guide, please contact us at Rails to Trails of the Withlacoochee, P.O. Box 807, Inverness, FL 34451-0807 or harnage@embarqmail.com. We invite all to enjoy our wonderful trail.

Al

Wonderful

By TimBee in December, 2008

I'm also an escapee from the frozen tundra (MN) where our paved trail systems are excellent & very extensive but unusable for biking for 4-5 months. I started in Inverness at a very nice trailhead & rode my folding bike south. The first 8 miles or so to Floral City were small-town/suburban next to a busy highway. The farther south I went the better it got with the beautiful live oaks draped with Spanish Moss and the palm trees. It became very rustic and peaceful except for quite a few riders (on a Thurs afternoon). I stopped at Lake Townsen Park; nice rest rooms, benches and excellent drinking water. I liked the mileage markers painted on the trail. On my next trip to FL I'll definately ride this one again.

Not a review

By marywho in November, 2008

Took this op to ask if there's some way you can help get word out about a lost dog. She was sent down here to a rescue and got off the property only 4 days later. She's now in Withlacoochee Forest (verified sighting) and we need help to get the word out to bikers along the trail she's hanging out around. ny suggestions? Hank you so much!!!!

Withlacoochee State Trail

By bicyclist in April, 2008

I live near this trail and bicycle it regularly. You are welcome to contact me for more information. Also, on request, I can supply an email version of the Withlacoochee Bicycle Riders "Seven Paved Trails" document describing this trail and six others (Gainesville-Hawthorne, Nature Coast, Suncoast, Pinellas, Van Fleet, and West Orange/Minneola), including driving directions to each.
Dick Marr (bicyclist@tampabay.rr.com)

NICE BREAK FROM THE FROZEN TUNDRA

By rickford in February, 2007

"WHAT A NICE BREAK FROM THE FROZEN TUNDRA OF VIRGINIA. WE SPENT 3 DAYS ON THE TRAIL THE WEEK OF THE FEB. 19TH. THE LOCAL RESTAURANTS IN HERNANDO, FLORAL CITY AND INVERNESS WERE VERY GOOD. WE ATE AT THE CHICKEN KING IN HERNANDO THE FIRST DAY. UNFORTUNATELY SOMETIME DURING THE WEEK, THE CHICKEN KING HAD A MAJOR FIRE. I UNDERSTAND THEY PLAN TO REOPEN."

Great ride thru old Florida

By in February, 2007

We biked from Inverness south beyond lovely Floral City with its ancient live oaks. Pastoral views of horse farms & blooming dogwoods & redbud trees. Great lunch at the rustic Shamrock Pub in Floral City.

Very Good

By in January, 2007

This is our second 4 week winter vacation on this trail.
We are greatful to the people of Florida to provide such a trail and we are going to return.
I use this trail to train for USA coast to coast fast crossing by bike.

Lovely trail

By JHop99 in April, 2006

"I spent three nights camping near the trail this week so my wife and daughter and I could ride every day. It was a delight in every way. The trail is beautifully maintained and runs through clean woods and small towns. Our riding gave me my first experience of Inverness, Fla., a place I'll be sure to revisit. "

Courtesy on the trail

By in March, 2006

We walk and ride bikes daily on the trail and follow the rules. It would be so much nicer if bikers would be courteous and announce themselves when passing. The rules state this but it seems no-one observes this. We were hit once when bikes were coming the other way and a biker behind us didn't want to stop and tried to squeeze between us.

Start your vacation here

By in December, 2005

"This message is for the bikers up in the snow belt who can't handle the Florida rat race: This area of Fla. has more bike riding than you can shake a stick at, on and off road. This trail is awesome and there are a half dozen other trails nearby. Vanfleet, Santos, Croom, Razorback, ect. Do yourself a favor, get off I-75, enjoy the weather and ride."

Honorary Mayor Trilby Fl

By in July, 2005

I am proud to tell you we are trying to get this wonderfull trail extended from Trilby To Dade City-then Zephyrhills wants to have it run to there area.. www.trilbyfl.com The Greater Trilby Community association is very active in pasco

It's my childhood fantasy!

By Bruce in March, 2005

"When I was a kid I always daydreamed about there being a network of bicycle highways. This is exactly what I daydreamed of!

This trail has a very smooth surface, it's wide (12-feet wide, I think), there are very few road crossings, rural views, and the trail is relatively flat. I actually wouldn't mind a few hills, but when I was a kid I dreamed of flat bike roads!

I went from Trilby to past Floral Springs. My next trip to Florida I have to do the rest. Do this trail. It's great!"

Good guide book available

By in March, 2005

"We enjoyed the many miles of riding on this trail. We also enjoyed the guide book that was put out by, I believe, the Friends of the Withlacoochee Trail group.

We got the booklet at the bike store on the path in Inverness. It's too bad many people can't carry their water bottles, beer cans, etc. to the nearest waste can. Many were available. How thoughtless some people can be.

We enjoyed the towns along the way. More camping opportunities would be nice though."

Pristine Tribute to Florida!

By in February, 2005

"This trail offers it all: rolling hills, rivers, fields, forests and nature at its best. It's a must see and do!"

A great skate

By in September, 2004

We have skated the trail since it opened and it is one of the best trails we have ever skated! Exceptional beauty and wildlife are found along this trail at any time of the year.

"Kudos, and well done!"

By in September, 2004

"Hurray! This one's done right. Finally something Pasco County can be proud of (even if only a small part of). No graft or corruption here, just pure goodness. From the poor oppressed people, I say Thank-You."

One of Florida's Best

By alan3 in September, 2004

"This is just about riding with two friends, the perfect ride on a perfect day down the perfect trail. It’s what riding should be about, when you can share the joy it brings with close friends. Of course, it’s also a great way to meet some new people who may become friends. It’s always interesting each time you go out, because you never know what new adventure may be waiting.

Riding along from Hampton’s Edge Recumbent Shop, to the quaint, trailside Gazebo at Floral City, and then on to an early breakfast at Cockadoodles in Inverness just doesn’t get any better. Shade trees line the trail for the most part, and the heat of the day doesn’t catch up with you until almost noontime.


Peacefulness surrounds you leaving the irritation of “city sounds” far behind. No words need be spoken but it’s hard not to express the inner feelings of joy and relaxation. Birds abound, and the mixed chorus is always perfect pitch and perfect harmony.

These are the things memories are made of, forever engraved on the back roads of our mind. Time may treat us well, and not change the Forrest or the small towns that lie along the trail. It may all survive the onslaught of new residential developments spewing out the brainwashed notion of the American Dream, when in fact they destroy the real dream. And in the not too distant future we may take that ride again, and see if the “Hen still delivers the Goods” at Cockadoodles!

Read the complete article a www.recumbent-bikes-truth-for-you.com/withlacoochee-trail-2004.html"

Enjoyable Rail-Trail

By in June, 2004

I grew up in Inverness and still never get tired of riding this rail-trail. I'm a road rider who really enjoys being able to focus on training or relax with the great views without having to worry about cars (except at a few blind intersections).

I typically start in Inverness at North Apopka or Floral City at Highway 48. It is a perfect metric century from Inverness to Trilby and back. This is a very flat trail and can be riden at a relatively quick pace. There is plenty of room for safe passing of walkers or runners.

Serene Peace

By in April, 2004

"Currently, the southern most point to start on this trail is at a parking lot on the west side of Highway 301, about five miles north of Dade City and one mile south of Trilicoochee. I have ridden north from this point 20 miles to a point one mile past Interstate 75.

Birding along this trail is excellent and you will also see deer, bob cat, otter, muskrat, tortices, indigo snake and prety much all the wildlife Florida has to offer. The grades are easy to peddle and for the most part you are away from traffic noise. I'm 65 and it takes me five to six hours of easy cycling to ride the entire trail to the northern terminus."

Beautiful Trail

By vvm in January, 2004

"The trail was beautiful, especially the Inverness area with the lakes. And the forest was very nice, too. The pavement is wide enough to pass others, and it's in good shape for a smooth ride. There are plenty of spots to stop and rest. The ride was very relaxing and fun. I rode from Citrus Springs to Trilby. I wish there was a rail-trail closer to Miami. "

Don't miss this one!

By in December, 2003

I recently did the Pinellas Trail and all the bike trails on Sanibel Island and this one is the best all around. I used Inverness as a base to launch a north leg and then return the next day to finish off the southern portion. There are restrooms and places to eat along the trail near most trailheads. Most crossings have no car traffic and we only had to stop a few times. The trail features good pavement and rural woodlands as it passes through the uncrowded country setting.

Great For Exercise & Seeing Nature

By in March, 2003

This trail provides exercise for everyone. It also provides people with a greater understanding of what Florida really is about. A wonderful experience.

A GREAT Ride!

By in May, 2002

"I have ridden Withlacoochee many times. It is one of the most beautiful, peaceful rides Florida has to offer. Winding through old farms, through tiny towns, it is truly an opportunity to relieve stress. I recommend a Camel Back or other hydrating system though. In the summer, it can get hot out there! Enjoy! I ride it on a mountain bike. The longest ride I've done on it was 63 miles, starting at Trilby and going past Citrus. The longest blade I've done on it was 22 miles, again, starting at Trilby. "

Trail

By in September, 2001

"I have ridden this trail many times. I love it! There are no cars to worry about, it is clean, there are places to eat. What more can you ask?"

Great Ride

By in September, 2001

"I have ridden the Withlacoochee trail many times. It is not only one of the best places to ride since there are no cars, it has places to rest, eat and drink."

Great place for a century!

By in April, 2001

First time on this trail.....Rode the Clean Air Century......a great ride for a great cause at a great location......we liked it so much we went back and enjoyed it a little more the next morning before heading home. We've already got this one scheduled in for next year.

Withlacoochee Trail

By in April, 2001

"Clean Trail with friendly local people. Look for shy Cooter Turtles in the dirt enbankment that runs parallel with the trail. This trail & the quaint, quiet towns along it is a pleasant contrasr to the coastal areas of FL. This is the peaceful, warm relaxing FL I prefer. If staying over, I recommend The Crown Hotel in Inverness."

Extension of withlacoochee state trail

By in March, 2001

"their is talk of extending the withlacoochee state trail possibly south off of US 301. i am not sure where it may go. possible cities in my mind maybe connecting to van fleet trail to polk city, maybe to dade city or zephryrhills or maybe to tampa. anywhere is possible. if someone knows, please give some feedback please. thank you."

Withlacoochee State Trail

By bicyclist in February, 2001

"Paved, 12 feet wide, 46 miles long. Uncongested. Can bicycle without much stopping although plenty of benches along trail.

Popular parking places are in Inverness, FL at Wallace Brooks Park (Dampier St.) or at N. Apopka Ave. near bicycle shop. The 30 miles south of Inverness are more scenic than the northern 16 miles. Also trail parking at US 50 near Ridge Manor, FL. where trail bridge goes over US 50.

Floral City, FL is midpoint of trail with Gazebo a popular rest stop.

I live in area. From Inverness can drive to 6 more paved trails (each 16 - 50 miles long), bike, & drive back same day. Email for more info."