Went here for the first time in March of 2021. I can only talk about the first 12.5 miles going north from the Polk City trailhead.

Overall, the trail itself is in decent shape. It is a bit bumpy from tree roots (only occasionally) and also has some big dips where the ground has settled under the trail. Most of this is in the first few miles.

The trail was relatively well-maintained. No real issues as far as big potholes or trees encroaching.

The first crossing is about 3 miles in and it is a very desolate road, so you can ride for a good ways without stop-and-go. The second one in at about 5 miles needs your full attention. A very fast moving, busy two-lane highway with no flashers to alert motorists that you are crossing.

There are no restrooms at the trailhead, so if you need one before your ride, you're better off to stop at the convenience store before you get there.

Overall, we'd go back but we'll go to the next trailhead up so we can see a different part of the trail.

This route is probably only about 9.75 miles or a bit longer. I walked it and that's what my Garmin said. Garmin could be off a bit, but probably not by 3/4 of a mile. Anyway, this route could use a few park benches along the way, as the only two places to rest are the two parks on opposite sides of the lake. Parts of this route could be run, but parts have many street crossings and driveways that make running difficult. I would not recommend bike riding along the three miles that front US 27 on the west side (although some ride there). I have walked and run many trails and I rate this one average. I think this route has potential to become a better trail with a bit of work.

This trail is ideal for race training. If you’re looking to put your head down and pound it for 3-4 hours, then this is your place. If you’re looking for some hills and turns, or if you want sights there are better choices. This is very remote with no water options. Bring your own. We’ll go again but I like the Withalacoochee and Marjorie Carr Trails more.

Awesome, flat, straight trail (NO stops for roads/traffic). We saw lots of wildlife including turtles, snakes & a huge gator.

Not a fun ride. Not sure how this is in the rails to trails guide, it would be fine if you needed to commute to work. All you hear is traffic and not much to see; trail is a little quieter once you get to the school. A lot of the pavement has roots, asphalt is in need of repair and there are poor transitions to the streets. Caution on the crosswalk as some cars ignore the crosswalk signal even while the lights are flashing. Lots of better trails to choose from in FL

the trail has been extended on the southern end and now it's 9+ miles and ends at Plymouth Avenue instead of Denton Avenue

The paved trail is pretty flat with the exception of some bridges across busy streets. From the parking lot at the Chamber of Commerce on the Winter Haven side to the end of the trail at W. Haines Blvd in Lake Alfred is 5.1m out and 5.1 miles back. It's pretty basic, but I would like to add some suggestions to make the ride slightly more enjoyable.

1) Try and time your ride for the third Saturday of the month. There is a free water ski show on Lake Silver. The show time changes so check the website for the Cypress Gardens Ski team. I suggest that you do your ride first and hit the show on the way back into Winter Haven as the bike path goes right past the lake.

2) Instead of just dead heading out to where the trail ends in Lake Alfred, take a little detour off the path to the Mackay Gardens and Lakeside Preserve. The preserve is a better destination than just the abrupt end of the trail in downtown Lake Alfred. It's about a mile east of the trail.

3) There's not a lot of shade on the trail so stay hydrated and bring sunscreen. There is a "splash pad park" along the trail in downtown Winter Haven where you can cool off under the misters so DEFINITELY bring a change of clothes.

4) Enjoy Winter Haven at the end of your ride. Again, bring a change of clothes...and explore the downtown area. There are public restrooms for changing near the splash park for changing. They have nice restaurants, coffee shops, a brewery, antique shops for browsing, and live music on Saturdays (once Covid subsides) - It's a cool little area to walk around after your ride.

I think it's a great way to kill a Saturday afternoon if you're looking for a leisurely ride. A good portion of the trail is through industrial areas, which is to be expected as this was an old train track bed, but if you're looking for a nice 10 or so mile easy trail, this is a good option.

Visiting Orlando, first time we brought our bikes. Looked this up on the App. Enjoyed the rides on the well paved trail. Overcast February day, so sun was not a problem. Great warm up ride for a casual 1 hour ride out and back.

We were very disappointed in our Jan 2021 visit to this nicely shaded and straight as an arrow trail. The surface is kinda bumpy where roots have caused the asphalt to rise making for an uncomfortable ride. Saw only 1 turtle and 1 rat snake. Had hoped for other wildlife so we found it pretty boring. The Withlahoochee remains our favorite!