Teco Auburndale Trail

The TECO Auburndale Trail offers a delightful and easy touring cycling experience through Polk County, Florida. This paved route, stretching 12.2 miles (19.7 km) with only 60 feet (18 metres) of elevation gain, guides you through a changing landscape from urban fringes near Lake Myrtle Park to open fields with cattle and horses. You'll also pass through "splashes of nature" like swamp forests and shaded oak hammocks, providing a pleasant mix of scenery for your 1 hour and 5 minute ride.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is well-marked and features benches and rest stations. While restrooms are available at the trailheads, it's wise to be prepared, as maintenance can vary. Remember to bring ample water and sun protection, as many sections run alongside TECO power lines, offering open vistas but limited shade. Exercise caution at road crossings, particularly at Pace Road, which can be busy.

This trail is a fantastic option for beginner cyclists or families, offering a smooth, flat surface built on a former railbed. A significant draw for touring cyclists is its seamless connection to the General James A. Van Fleet State Trail at its northern end in Polk City, allowing for much longer combined routes up to 35 miles one-way. Keep an eye out for bald eagles at the observation area near the southern terminus, adding a touch of wildlife viewing to your ride.

The Van Fleet State Trail – Teco Auburndale Trail loop from Parrot Island Green offers a delightful touring cycling experience through Central Florida's varied scenery. This easy 20.9-mile (33.6 km) route, with a mere 90 feet (27 metres) of elevation gain, guides you through the tranquil Green Swamp, where you might spot alligators and gopher tortoises, before transitioning to the more open landscapes and oak hammocks of the TECO Auburndale Trail, with views of Lake Myrtle Park. Expect a smooth, paved ride that takes around 1 hour and 54 minutes, making it ideal for a relaxed outing.

When planning your visit, note that while the TECO section has some amenities, the Van Fleet State Trail is quite remote. It's wise to bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and insect repellent, as services are sparse along much of the route. Trailheads like Polk City and Auburndale offer restrooms and picnic facilities, but once you're on the trail, you'll be immersed in nature. Parking is generally available at designated trailheads, including near the Parrot Island Green starting point.

This loop is a fantastic way to experience Florida's natural beauty, particularly its diverse ecosystems from river swamps to pine flatwoods. The trail's flat, rail-trail design makes it exceptionally beginner-friendly and a great option for families. It also serves as a crucial connector, linking Auburndale to the more extensive Van Fleet State Trail, offering opportunities for even longer rides if you wish to explore beyond the loop.