Good Neighbor and Withlacoochee State Trail Loop

The full loop, which covers approximately 66 kilometers (41 miles), is estimated to take around 4 hours and 2 minutes for a touring cyclist. This duration can vary based on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

The loop is rated as moderate. While the Good Neighbor Trail has some rolling hills and moderate elevation changes, the Withlacoochee State Trail is largely flat. Its paved surfaces make it generally manageable for touring cyclists, though beginners should be prepared for the longer distance and some varied terrain.

You can access the loop from various points. A common starting point is the western endpoint of the Good Neighbor Trail in downtown Brooksville, which features the historic 1885 Brooksville Train Depot and parking. The Withlacoochee State Trail also has five main trailheads with parking and facilities along its length.

The loop primarily features paved surfaces, as both the Good Neighbor Trail and the Withlacoochee State Trail are converted railroad corridors. The Good Neighbor Trail has some moderate elevation changes and rolling hills, while the Withlacoochee State Trail is known for its almost entirely flat and consistent surface.

The loop offers diverse scenery, from historic downtown Brooksville to rural landscapes with farms and ranches. It transitions into the scenic Croom Wildlife Management Area within the Withlacoochee State Forest, featuring tree-lined paths, cypress swamps, and open sand scrub. You might spot wildlife such as gopher tortoises, hawks, eagles, fox squirrels, deer, bobcats, and river otters. The section of the Withlacoochee State Trail near Inverness is particularly beautiful with a dense tree canopy.

Central Florida's cooler, drier months, typically from late fall through early spring (November to April), are ideal for cycling. During this period, temperatures are more comfortable, and humidity is lower, making for a more enjoyable ride.

While the trails themselves generally do not require specific permits or fees for cycling, portions of the loop pass through the Withlacoochee State Forest, including the Croom Wildlife Management Area. It's always a good idea to check the Florida Forest Service website for any current regulations or fees that might apply to specific activities or areas within the forest, though casual trail use is typically free.

The Withlacoochee State Trail has numerous access points with facilities, picnic tables, and benches. However, amenities like water and open restrooms can be limited on some sections of the Good Neighbor Trail. It is highly recommended to carry sufficient water, especially on longer rides.

Yes, this loop is a crucial link in the larger Florida Coast to Coast Trail, a network connecting the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean. The route also passes through sections of the Florida Coast-to-Coast Trail, USBR 15 (Florida), and the Florida National Scenic Trail.

Generally, dogs are allowed on leash on Florida's state trails, including the Good Neighbor Trail and the Withlacoochee State Trail. Always keep your dog on a leash, clean up after them, and ensure they are well-behaved around other trail users and wildlife.

Key highlights include the Good Neighbor Trail itself, which starts near the historic 1885 Brooksville Train Depot. The loop also incorporates the extensive Withlacoochee State Trail, known for its natural beauty and status as a former railroad corridor. Both trails are part of the Florida Coast to Coast Trail, offering a glimpse into a larger statewide network.