Explore the best rated trails in Fairview Shores, FL, whether you're looking for an easy walking trail or a bike trail like the Withlacoochee State Trail and Ponce Inlet Trail . With more than 53 trails covering 495 miles you're bound to find a perfect trail for you. Click on any trail below to find trail descriptions, trail maps, photos, and reviews.
This is a review of the 3 mile segment of this trail between Highbanks Road and US17/92. I walk this segment back and forth 3 times a week - 6 miles total a day. I really like it because it's close to my home and is probably the least busy of the trails in the area. It has become very frustrating lately however, because maintenance (which I've been informed is the responsibility of the City of DeBary and not Volusia County) is virtually non-existent. The grass is seldom mowed and when it is, any trash encountered is just chopped and left. The section that runs parallel to US17/92 reminds one more of the county dump than a recreational trail. Most distressing however is the fact it has become a convenient shortcut for motorized vehicles. Point this out to the offenders zipping along and you open yourself up to all kinds of verbal abuse, and today to something that bordered on a personal threat. There never has been signage reminding users of basic trail etiquette and courtesies, and most of the "NO Motorized Vehicles" signs have been knocked down. Too bad because over the three miles there are twists and turns and elevation changes along with unique viewing opportunities - wildlife, trains, wetlands.
We parked at Lake Townsen Park, had some lunch at Bree’s Provisions (They close at 2:00) and rode north, out and back for about an hour. The trail is well maintained and goes through beautiful farm country.
Started at Green Pond Trail Head and headed North. As reported, the trail has some pretty big bumps and a few holes, usually near the edge. With the limited traffic on the path, it isn't difficult to avoid them but you do have to keep your eyes on the trail. On 3/28 there was quite a bit of tree trimming and brush consolidation in the 10 miles between Green Pond and Bay Lake and some heavier equipment was staging at the State Park garage near Green Pond so maybe they are going to fix it this Spring.
The 10 miles between Green Pond and Bay lake is a very nice mostly shaded ride through timber with swamp land on both sides. There are 3 bridges about 2 1/2 Miles North of Green Pond which provides a place to watch alligators (this is mating season so you see some but there's a bunch more as the grunt and talk...), enjoy the birds and quiet serenity. At Bridge 2 that day, there is a 10+ Foot alligator nesting with her (soon to be) baby alligators.
North of Bay Lake is very nice and shaded for the 4 miles we traveled (Total round trip of 28 Miles).
Some call this trail 'straight and boring.' I'd suggest that it is quiet and serene, and, because it is straight and wide, you can spend most of your time enjoying nature!
I have seen so many close calls with small children and groups renting bikes and organizing standing on the trail when speeders come down the hill and fly past them. Killarney rentals should come out the side door and not directly onto the trail or slow the traffic down.
Great trail! But definitely needs some work after the Hurricane's North of Polk City. Trucks have created some dangerous dips/holes in the asphalt from the trail repair crews. BE CAREFUL. the Shade hides some of the obstacles.
You may encounter some equipment on the trail also during weekdays. Hopefully, it will get re-surfaced along this 2 - 3 mile stretch. I did NOT RIDE South of Polk City. Overall, a Very Nice trail. Will be back to 4 star trail after repairs.
Living in Apopka, I've been on portions of the West Orange Trail MANY times. Your description starts at the southern point at the bottom of Lake Apopka and ends with the words describing the trail ending at its southern point along Lester Rd. You should change the word "southern" to "northern". Otherwise, a nice description of a very nice trail. Thank you.
This is a great trail through marsh and forest area. As many we met on the trail say. This trail feeds our souls...enjoy. we will be back.
I was amazed at the natural beauty of this trail. Very scenic from Edgewater going South. Restrooms in Edgewater were spotless. I liked it and would go again!
The trail is well maintained. There are a lot of road crossings and this in general is poor for road biking with only a few sections that are decent in length without interruption. For those using tri bikes there is essentially nowhere I felt comfortable in the aerobars. This is better suited for more leisurely activities.
Terrific trail along Lake Monroe. Fresh and smooth surface (mostly) and a relaxing ride. Only 4.5 miles long however, but does connect to Cross Seminole trail, albiet at the end with lots of traffic.
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