General James A. Van Fleet State Trail:
Florida
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Description:
The James A. Van Fleet State Trail runs 29 miles through some of Florida's most scenic rural landscape. If you are looking to immerse yourself in wetlands and wildlife, it will not disappoint; at least one-third of the trail crosses central Florida's 322,690-acre Green Swamp.

The trail stretches from Polk City north to the town of Mabel on State Route 50. The Polk City trailhead offers ample parking, picnic and restroom facilities, plus an expansive field of clipped grass, perfect for a game of pickup soccer. From the Polk City end you can also head south to Auburndale along the Auburndale TECO Trail.

The flat and arrow-straight route, with one slight curve around Mile Marker 5, have made it a favorite among time-trial bicyclists, though thanks to its remote setting, you'll likely encounter only the occasional speedster.

The Green Pond Road trailhead, near Mile Marker 10, marks the boundary of the Green Swamp, one of Florida's protected wetland and wildlife areas. From here on watch for feral pigs, armadillos, buzzards, tortoises and possibly an alligator or two basking on the trail's warm asphalt surface.

While the Bay Lake trailhead signals the end of the protected reserve, the final 10 miles of the to the Mabel trailhead are every bit as scenic. The decision is yours whether to race back to Polk City or savor the return trip along this beautiful, serene trail.

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Parking & Trail Access:
To reach the Polk City trailhead from Lakeland, take I-4 east to Exit 38/Polk City, and follow Route 33 north to Polk City. The trailhead is at the intersection of Route 33 and Route 655/Berkley Road.

To reach the Green Pond Road trailhead from Clermont, take Route 50 west to Route 33 south. Follow Route 33 about 16 miles to Green Pond Road, turn right and continue to the trailhead.

To reach the Mabel trailhead from Clermont, take Route 50 west; the trailhead is at the intersection of Route 50 and CR 772, on the left about 5 miles west of the Route 50/Bay Lake Road intersection in Mascotte.

Contact:
General James A. Van Fleet State Trail
7305 US Highway 27
Clermont, FL 34711
(352) 394-2280

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Seasonal Restrictions:
Florida State Parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.
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Reviews: [8 trail ratings]
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Like driving across Nebraska
By timbee in December, 2011
The wildlife makes this trail (they say) but I saw only a few turtles, deer, big birds, a snake (dead/alive?). The flora is about the same as you find on most FL trails; love the live oaks & pines. To me it became pretty monotonous heading straight as an arrow on a smooth flat surface (no hills, no curves). Having a companion rider along would have helped break up the routine. You could put it on cruise control & take a nap.

Bring your own water & nourishment, you'll find none along the way (except water at Green Pond TH). Empty your bladder before you depart. Don't plan on using a cell phone; signal is poor. There is little shade to be had--didn't matter much in Dec but in July or August it may. This wouldn't be a "destination trail" for me but if you're in the area it's worth checking out.
Fantastic Riding!!
By tonynavy1 in December, 2011
This trail is awesome. It is 29 miles of flat, straight pavement. Great ride for any age. This is an isolated trail, though safe, always ride with someone. Facilities are limited, so take water and food (sunscreen). Plenty of picnic tables with covers overhead. Fantastic wildlife viewing, take camera. I have seen deer, gators, snakes, turtles, raccoons, squirrels, amardillos, wild pigs & boars, coyotes, bear, vultures, eagles, hawks, owls, and one escaped pet monkey (for real!). If you like nature, give yourself time to take it all in. You won't be disappointed. I have rode some of the best trails in the state of Floirda and this is my favorite.
Great Trail, Be Careful
By e2c2deron in October, 2011
Previous reviews are right on the money. The only thing I will caution you on is that I have ridden the trail twice and encountered poisonous snakes both times. Both times they were across the trail and did not move. Remember this trail is REMOTE! There is no medical care readily available. Great ride, be careful!
We enjoyed our four visits to this trail in the spring of 2003.
Trail Facts
Trail End Points: Mabel (CR 772 & SE 121st St.) to Polk City (nr Berkley Rd & Industrial Ave)
Counties: Lake, Polk, Sumter
Trail Length: 29 miles
Trail Category: Rail-Trail
Trail Surfaces: Asphalt, Ballast, Dirt
Trail Activities: Bike, Inline Skating, Wheelchair Accessible, Horseback Riding, Mountain Biking, Walking
TrailLink ID: 6015510

Related Links
Guidebook: Learn more about other Southeast rail-trails in RTC's Southeast Guidebook.