The best traffic-free bike rides in Marion County
4.9
(43)
390
riders
18
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes in Marion County traverse a landscape characterized by natural springs, pine forests, and extensive greenways. The terrain generally features gentle elevation changes, making it suitable for a wide range of cyclists. This region offers diverse natural scenery, including sections of the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway and areas within the Ocala National Forest.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes in Marion County
- The most popular no traffic touring cycling route is Marjorie Harris Carr…
Last updated: April 25, 2026
5.0
(2)
27
riders
27.6km
02:17
80m
80m
The Shangri La Tract & 49th Avenue Tract loop offers a moderate touring bicycle experience, covering 17.2 miles (27.6 km) with an elevation gain of 268 feet (82 metres). You…
24
riders
18.8km
01:43
40m
40m
Embark on the Santos Spider Kingdom Loop for an easy touring bicycle ride through Florida's natural pine forests. This 11.7 miles (18.8 km) route, with a gentle 135 feet (41…
Sign up for free
2
riders
11.2km
00:55
20m
20m
Enjoy an easy 7.0-mile (11.2 km) touring cycling loop on the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway, featuring diverse natural scenery.
40.5km
03:39
110m
110m
This moderate 25.2-mile touring bicycle loop through Ocala National Forest connects Juniper Springs and Farles Prairie, offering diverse sce
36
riders
10.9km
00:49
30m
30m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Other adventures in Marion County
Tips from the Community
There is drinking water, toilets, and a bike wash area.
0
0
There is drinking water and toilets here.
0
0
Farles Prairie Recreation Area, situated along the shores of Farles Lake, offers stunning water views and various opportunities to extend your ride and explore the area. It also serves as a pleasant break point along your ride.
0
0
This flat area offers panoramic views of Farles Prairie, with plenty of stunning water vistas as you pass through the tranquil prairie landscape.
0
0
A self-guided interpretive trail provides information about the vegetation and wildlife found here. The Florida National Scenic Trail passes through this area, offering an easy extension to your ride. Additionally, there is a beautiful spring with crystal-clear water where you can cool off.
0
0
This area hosts a wide variety of wildlife species, such as birds, deer, alligators, and more. Additionally, it offers 14 public campgrounds for those looking to extend their journey beyond the miles of trails available elsewhere. An easier paved trail loops around this area, while a more adventurous dirt trail in the middle is popular among mountain bikers.
1
0
As the name suggests, this nicely paved trail takes you around the Ross Prairie Tract, offering a comfortable ride. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, the Ern and Burn and Beyond Trail can be accessed from here, taking you through the park and adding a bit of excitement to your journey.
1
0
This area offers miles of well-marked trails ideal for hiking, running, and biking. A pleasant campground is available for those who wish to explore for several days. The heavily forested landscape features winding trails and scenic hills, providing a variety of terrains to enjoy.
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available in Marion County?
There are nearly 20 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes in Marion County, offering a variety of experiences. Most of these routes are rated as easy, making them accessible for many cyclists.
Are there any family-friendly no-traffic touring cycling routes in Marion County?
Yes, Marion County offers several family-friendly options. Routes like the Santos Spider Kingdom Loop and the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway Loop are generally easy and suitable for families. The Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway, in particular, is known for its mostly paved paths and gentle terrain, perfect for a relaxed family outing.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on these no-traffic routes?
Marion County's no-traffic routes primarily traverse diverse natural habitats, including pine forests and areas rich in natural springs. You'll experience the unique environment of the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway and parts of the Ocala National Forest, offering a refreshing escape into nature.
Are there any circular no-traffic touring cycling routes?
Yes, many of the no-traffic touring cycling routes in Marion County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Shangri La Tract & 49th Avenue Tract loop and the Juniper Springs & Farles Prairie Recreation Area loop, providing convenient cycling experiences.
What attractions or points of interest can I find along these routes?
Along Marion County's no-traffic routes, you can discover several natural attractions. Highlights include the Juniper Springs Recreation Area and the Farles Prairie Recreation Area. You might also encounter the Ocala National Forest and various natural springs, such as those near Rainbow Springs, offering opportunities for refreshing stops.
What do other touring cyclists say about the no-traffic routes in Marion County?
The no-traffic touring cycling routes in Marion County are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an excellent average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from over 30 reviews. Cyclists often praise the peaceful, car-free environment and the beautiful natural scenery, especially along the Cross Florida Greenway.
Are there any routes that pass by significant landmarks or bridges?
Yes, some routes offer views of notable structures. For instance, the Cross Florida Greenway features the impressive Land Bridge Over I-75, which allows wildlife and cyclists to safely cross the interstate. You might also encounter the Withlacoochee River Bridge on certain sections.
Are there any routes that offer access to water activities like swimming?
Absolutely. Marion County is famous for its natural springs. Some routes provide access to areas like Rainbow Springs or Juniper Springs, where you can take a refreshing dip in the clear, cool waters, especially during warmer months.
What is the typical difficulty level of these no-traffic touring routes?
Most of the no-traffic touring routes in Marion County are rated as easy, with 11 out of 18 routes falling into this category. There are also 5 moderate routes and 2 more challenging options, providing choices for various skill levels. The terrain generally features gentle elevation changes, making it suitable for touring cyclists of different abilities.
Where can I find parking for these no-traffic touring cycling routes?
Many of the popular no-traffic routes, especially those along the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway and near areas like Santos, have designated trailheads with parking facilities. It's always recommended to check the specific route details on komoot for parking information at the starting point of your chosen tour.
Are there any routes that explore the Santos area without heavy mountain bike traffic?
While Santos is well-known for mountain biking, there are paths suitable for touring cyclists that minimize interaction with heavy mountain bike traffic. The Santos Spider Kingdom Loop is an easy touring route that offers a taste of the area's natural beauty on relatively flat paths, often separate from the more technical single-track trails.
Most popular attractions in Marion County
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Didn’t find what you were looking for?
Check out more Cycling routes throughout Marion County below and find the perfect route in your destination.
Explore more
Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.
