Withlacoochee State Trail
Activities at Withlacoochee State Trail
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BicyclingThis long and relatively straight trail is extremely popular with cyclists of all skill levels. Experienced cyclists use it for long-distance training and, with seven trailheads, there is ample access to make short trips. This trail is the venue for one of the Southeast's largest single day bike rides each year on the first Sunday in October. Bike racks are available at the Inverness Trailhead. |
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BirdingThe trail intersects the nearby Withlacoochee River’s floodplain in several locations, which, along with scenic Lake Henderson and the Tsala-Apopka chain of lakes, attracts many species of birds. Trail volunteers have installed over 200 birdhouses for bluebirds and other species along the 46-mile corridor. |
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Canoeing & KayakingPaddlers will enjoy the nearby Withlacoochee River (South) Canoe Trail for canoeing and kayaking. For information on access points, see FloridaGreenwaysAndTrails.com. |
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Hiking/Nature TrailHiking is permitted on the entire length of the trail which is generally flat and traverses a region with many other nearby recreational opportunities including the Withlacoochee State Forest. |
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Horse/Equestrian TrailAn unpaved equestrian trail parallels portions of the paved trail. A watering station for horses is located at the Ridge Manor Trailhead. |
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Interpretive ExhibitInterpretive panels highlighting points of interest and natural resources along this rail-trail feature a range of topics including the history of the trail's corridor and information on some of the often-seen wildlife. |
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Mountain BikingAlthough the trail is fully paved, trail users enjoy riding "fat tire" bikes on this multi-use trail and there is easy access from here to additional unpaved trails at Whispering Pines and in the Withlacoochee State Forest. |
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ParkingThere is a parking area at each of the trailheads and equestrian parking space is available at Gulf Junction, Citrus Springs, Ridge Manor, Trilby and Owensboro trailheads. |
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PetsWell 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. |
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Picnic PavilionPicnic pavilions are located at Gulf Junction, Citrus Springs, Inverness, Townsen Park and Ridge Manor trailheads. |
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PicnickingCovered picnic shelters are located at every trailhead, as well as Floral City. You will also find both covered and uncovered tables or benches at various points along the trail. |
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Restroom FacilitiesThere are restroom facilities located at each trailhead and a portable toilet is available in Floral City. |
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Roller BladingWhat better scene for inline skating than this long, straight, paved corridor with access from any of its seven trailheads! |
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WalkingSeven trailheads located along the 46-mile trail provide convenient access to a level, paved surface that is an ideal venue for both short and long walks in a peaceful, natural setting. Runners will find this a perfect training venue and there is a fitness course adjacent to the trail at the Inverness Trailhead. |
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Water Fountain/Potable WaterPotable water is available at each of the trailheads, and the Ridge Manor Trailhead has a watering station for horses. |
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Wheelchair AccessibleMotorized wheelchairs and other personal mobility devices are permitted, if required. |
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Wildlife ViewingAs it winds through six distinct natural communities, the WST offers rich opportunities for viewing gopher tortoises and other native animal species. Transient wildlife species include bobcats, feral hogs, river otters, turkeys, deer, squirrels and a great variety of snakes, birds and insects. |







