A NOTE FROM THE MANAGER

Lucinda Williams, Trail Manager

Although the Gen. James A. Van Fleet State Trail is a paved rail-trail, it is also considered the most rural, or remote trail in Florida. It runs through the Green Swamp, the headwaters for some of Florida’s most popular rivers; the Withlacoochee (South), Hillsborough, and Peace. Landscapes change dramatically from the southern end in Polk City to the northern tip on Highway 50 in Sumter County at the designated neighborhood of Mabel.

Habitats run from true, cedar-laden, green-flecked swamps of the Green Swamp and Withlacoochee State Forest to former citrus lands and cattle ranches, with pines and hardwoods in between. With only one curve in its 29.2 miles, you can choose to go slow and view the multitude of wildlife or enjoy it at a brisk pace. Most of the trail is shaded by the rich variety of trees and in the spring and fall, wildflowers abound.

Some of the wild life you might see….alligators can be seen, when there is water in the Withlacoochee. Also turkey, deer, gopher tortoises, rabbits and even the rare Sherman’s Fox Squirrels. Snakes of every variety also enjoy the warmth of the pavement, so ride and walk with awareness and enjoy those things you may not see in your own back yard!

You may now access the entire trail..the restroom at Polk City off of

SR 33 is open.  Until further notice the Restroom at Bay Lake is not open. 

Thank you for your patience

GETTING HERE

GET INVOLVED

• For forms, information and benefits of volunteering visit Get Involved.

CONCESSIONAIRES

PET POLICY

• Florida State Parks Pet Policy

• Well behaved dogs are allowed on the trail with a maximum six-foot, hand-held leash. Owners are requested to walk their dogs near the edge of the trail, for the safety of all trail users.

Florida State Parks Information Center (850) 245-2157
Florida Division of Recreation and Parks
3900 Commonwealth Boulevard, Tallahassee, FL 32399