The best cycling routes in Hernando County

Cycle the easy 18.3-mile Suncoast Trail, a paved path offering diverse Florida scenery, wildlife, and views of the Jay B. Starkey Wilderness

The Withlacoochee State Forest gravel loop from Richloam, Florida, offers a captivating journey through what feels like 'Old Florida,' with diverse scenery that keeps things interesting. You'll pedal through longleaf pine and scrub oak hills, past live oak thickets, and alongside cypress ponds, experiencing a mix of packed dirt, loose sand, and rough limestone roads. The terrain shifts constantly, providing a dynamic ride that showcases the natural beauty of the Richloam Tract.

This moderate 28.1-mile (45.2 km) touring bicycle route, with its gentle 70 feet (21 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 3 hours and 36 minutes to complete. While the overall climb is minimal, be ready for varied surfaces; sections can be sandy, especially around Carter Pond during dry spells, or muddy after rain. This makes it a great option for gravel cyclists who enjoy a bit of technical challenge and are prepared to adjust tire pressure for optimal handling.

Recognized by the World Wildlife Fund as one of North America's

Cycle a moderate 44.8-mile loop through diverse Florida landscapes on the Good Neighbor Trail and Withlacoochee State Trail.

The Weeki Wachee Preserve and State Park loop offers a unique touring cycling experience through a rich tapestry of Florida's natural habitats. You'll pedal past stunning deep blue-green lakes, which are former limestone quarries, and enjoy sections along the Weeki Wachee River frontage, winding through pine flatwoods and shady oak hammocks. The varied terrain, including rough limestone and soft 'sugar sand,' makes it a moderate 27.9-mile (44.8 km) ride best suited for gravel or mountain bikes, taking about 2 hours and 31 minutes to complete with a gentle 211 feet (64 metres) of elevation gain.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the preserve offers free public access without any admission fees. The best time to cycle is during the cooler, drier months from late fall to early spring, typically November through April, to avoid the intense Florida heat and humidity. Be sure to bring plenty of water, as some sections may have limited shade.

This route is notable for its incredible biodiversity, spanning 11,000 acres and serving as a crucial habitat for diverse wildlife, including various bird species, deer, and even Florida black bears. It's a significant part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, offering ample opportunities for wildlife observation and a peaceful escape into nature.

The Chassahowitzka Wildlife Management Area gravel loop offers a unique touring bicycle experience through Florida's diverse coastal habitats. You'll pedal along unpaved roads, old logging trams, and limerock surfaces, winding through sandhills, flatwoods, and cypress swamps. Keep an eye out for abundant wildlife like white-tailed deer, turkeys, and gopher tortoises, and you might even discover natural springs along the way, making for a tranquil and immersive ride. This easy 12.1-mile (19.5 km) route, with only 107 feet (33 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 37 minutes to complete.

Before you go, be aware there's a daily-use fee of $3 per person or $6 per vehicle. It's essential to bring your own water and snacks, as the area is quite expansive. For optimal wildlife viewing, mornings are your best bet, and it's advisable to avoid the hunting seasons, which generally occur from January to March and August to October. Parking is available at the WMA entrance.

This vast natural preserve is a vital part of Florida's scenic Nature Coast, celebrated for its biodiversity and pristine hardwood swamps. It provides crucial habitat for endangered species like the Florida black bear. The ability to cycle directly to beautiful natural springs is a highlight, and the nearby NJoy Spirits Distillery offers a fun post-ride diversion.

This route offers a unique blend of Florida cycling, starting on the smooth, paved Withlacoochee State Trail before diving into the rugged singletrack of the Croom Loop. You'll transition from cruising through shaded pine and oak forests, where you might spot gopher tortoises near Floral City, to navigating challenging off-road sections with significant elevation changes and technical features like sandy soil and limestone outcrops. It's a journey through diverse landscapes, from

Cycle the moderate 37.0-mile Suncoast and Good Neighbor Trail Loop, enjoying paved paths, diverse Florida landscapes, and wildlife spotting.

The Withlacoochee State Forest gravel loop offers a delightful journey through classic 'Old Florida' scenery, contrasting sharply with the region's paved trails. You'll pedal through diverse landscapes including sandhill ridges, longleaf pine forests, and oak hammocks, with glimpses of the scenic Withlacoochee River. While rated easy, expect varied terrain from hard-packed dirt to sections with sand and rocks, making wider tires a smart choice for this 9.7-mile (15.6 km) touring cycling route.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with the route starting conveniently near the Tucker Hill Day Use Area, which provides picnic spots and restrooms. This easy ride, taking approximately 1 hour and 19 minutes with 237 feet (72 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a relaxed outing. Be mindful of trail conditions, as sections can be muddy or rutted after rain, so checking the weather beforehand is always a good idea.

What makes this route truly special is its immersive natural experience, offering a chance to spot wildlife like deer, turkeys, and various birds, including endangered red-cockaded woodpeckers. It's a unique opportunity for touring cyclists to explore extensive unpaved sections and varied ecosystems, providing a more adventurous backcountry feel compared to the adjacent, flatter paved trails. This loop is a fantastic introduction to gravel cycling in Central Florida.

The Good Neighbor and Withlacoochee State Trail Loop offers a captivating touring bicycle journey through Florida's diverse landscapes. You'll pedal through deeply shaded forests, past peaceful rural farms, and into the remote beauty of the Croom Tract of the Withlacoochee State Forest, experiencing a true taste of "Old Florida" as you pass through quaint historic towns. The route combines the largely flat and smooth Withlacoochee State Trail with the Good Neighbor Trail's more challenging rolling hills, creating a varied and engaging ride.

This moderate 41.0-mile (66.0 km) loop, with 933 feet (284 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 4 hours and 2 minutes to complete. Starting from the Good Neighbor Trailhead in Brooksville, be sure to carry sufficient water as amenities can be sparse on some sections of the Good Neighbor Trail. The Withlacoochee State Trail offers more facilities, but always be mindful of road crossings and potential traffic, especially on connecting road sections like Croom Road which can have steep climbs.

Both trails are converted railroad corridors, offering a unique historical perspective with features like original cement mileposts on the Withlacoochee State Trail and the 1885 Brooksville Train Depot marking the Good Neighbor Trail's western end. This loop is also a vital link in Florida's Coast-to-Coast Trail, providing an excellent opportunity for wildlife viewing, from gopher tortoises to deer, as you traverse six distinct natural habitats within the Withlacoochee State Forest.