Biking the Withlacoochee State Trail

Post by Henry

It’s Florida’s longest paved bike trail at forty-six (46) miles long, and since we’ve been here in the area we’ve biked the entire length.  Twice.  Sort of.

Withlacoochee State Trail

We’ve done the trail in ‘sections’ – usually 7-10 miles each.  Since the Withlacoochee State Trail is a linear trail,

Withlacoochee State Trail Map

we have to ride out to a point, then turn around to get back to our car, therefore, our sections are actually 14-20 miles.  So that’s how we have ridden it twice.  Ninety-two miles!

Mostly it’s a ride through the countryside alongside forests, swamps,

Swamp along the trail

pastures, lakes, and small towns.

Inverness Depot

In the towns you can access bike shops or treat yourself to a fresh strawberry milkshake at a local place like this.  Yes, we did!

Home of the BEST Strawberry Milkshakes

There are benches and/or picnic tables along the trail to stop for breaks and even restrooms at some of the trailheads.

Friendly Cowboys on adjacent Horse Trail

There are also 266 bluebird houses

Bluebird House along Trail

along the entire length of the trail that were built and installed by one man.  

Click here for birdhouse story

We’ve seen some wildlife like deer, black snakes, gopher tortoises (a Threatened species),

Florida Gopher Tortoise 

and various birds and hawks.  The best was a Swallow Tailed Kite flying above.

(Fuzzy) Swallow Tailed Kite

There was almost one LESS squirrel as I still don’t know how I avoided running one over as it darted across in front of me!

The Withlacoochee State Trail is highly recommended, should you find yourself in this area of Florida.  See the scenery and get your exercise at the same time!