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Experiences & Amenities

Back to Withlacoochee State Trail

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Experiences

Bicycling
Bicycling

At 47 miles in length, the Withlacoochee State Trail is one of the longest paved rails to trails in Florida. The trail corridor runs through small towns, ranches and natural areas as it makes its way south from Citrus Springs to Trilby. With proper planning, a ride along the trail could include breakfast, lunch, dinner and accommodations.

Like most rails to trails in Florida, the Withlacoochee State Trail is generally flat, offering an easy ride for all skill levels.

  • Mile markers are located along the trail.
  • An unpaved equestrian trail parallels portions of the paved trail.
  • Additional information on bike use on this state trail.

Safety Concerns

  • Helmets are recommended for all cyclists. Florida law requires helmets for cyclists age 16 and younger.
  • Bring water, sunscreen and bug spray.
  • Obey all traffic laws.
  • When bicycling on a trail or dirt road shared with hikers or equestrians, be respectful of others. Learn more about our state park rules and trail etiquette.
  • Bicycles, including electric bicycles, may be used on trails designated for bicycle use with the park system, consistent with Section 316.20655, Florida Statutes.
  • All bicycles should operate in a safe manner.
  • Please obey posted speed limits.
Birding
Birding

Bird-watching is readily available on the trail. The many different ecosystems are home to a vast variety of birds. 

Geo-Seeking
Geo-Seeking

The trail offers an abundance of geocaches along its 47 miles. Geocaching is an outdoor game using hand-held global positioning systems (GPS) devices. It's effectively an inexpensive, interactive, high-tech treasure hunt that's a great way to learn geography. Participants use location coordinates to find caches. Some caches are easy to find; others are more difficult.

The biggest reward is the thrill of the search and the discovery of a place where you have never been. Geocaching should have minimal impact to the environment and conscientious land-use ethics should be followed.

  • Operation Recreation GeoTour 
Horseback Riding
Horseback Riding

The 47-mile trail provides opportunities for horseback riding adjacent to the paved trail. Parking lots that can accommodate a vehicle and horse trailers are at Ridge Manor, Citrus Springs and Gulf Junction. 

  • Horses are not permitted on pavement except at the Highway 50 overpass.
Roller Blading
Roller Blading

The trail with its 47 miles is a great place to skate. You can exercise in an area with beautiful scenery.

Walking and Running
Walking and Running

The relatively flat 47-mile paved trail is an excellent place to walk. The beautiful scenery along the trail makes for an enjoyable leisurely walk or a power walk.

Wildlife Viewing
Wildlife Viewing

The trail with its numerous different ecosystems is home to a wide variety of wildlife and provides an excellent place in which to watch wildlife.

Amenities

Accessible Amenities
Accessible Amenities

Withlacoochee State Trail is committed to providing a variety of amenities accessible to all of our visitors. These amenities include:

  • With a generally flat terrain and many access points, the 47-mile trail is an ideal venue for all skill and fitness levels of cycling, running, walking and skating. 
  • Interpretive exhibits.
  • Picnic facilities with tables and grills.
  • Restrooms.

Service animals are welcome in all areas of Florida State Parks.

Equestrian Trail
Equestrian Trail

The 47-mile trail provides opportunities for horseback riding adjacent to the paved trail. Parking lots that can accommodate a vehicle and horse trailers are at Ridge Manor, Citrus Springs and Gulf Junction. 

  • Horses are not permitted on pavement except at the Highway 50 overpass.
Interpretive Exhibit
Interpretive Exhibit

Reminders of historic railroad activity include cement mileage and whistle markers, the Lake Henderson Trestle and the privately owned Inverness Depot, which was built in 1892.

Parking
Parking

Five trailheads provide parking and restroom facilities. Picnic facilities are provided at the Gulf Junction Trailhead, Inverness Trailhead and Ridge Manor Trailhead. Consult the trail map for locations.

Pets
Pets

Pets are welcome on the trail as long as they are on a 6-foot hand-held leash and well-behaved at all times.

  • See our Pet Policy.
Picnic Pavilion
Picnic Pavilion

Five trailheads provide parking and restroom facilities. Picnic facilities are provided at the Gulf Junction Trailhead, Inverness Trailhead and Ridge Manor Trailhead. Consult the trail map for locations.

Restroom Facilities
Restroom Facilities

Five trailheads provide parking and restroom facilities. Picnic facilities are provided at the Gulf Junction Trailhead, Inverness Trailhead and Ridge Manor Trailhead. Consult the trail map for locations.

Water Fountain
Water Fountain

Staying hydrated on your outdoor adventures is important. Just bring a refillable water bottle to replenish your drinking water at the park. This will reduce the amount of single-use plastics in landfills and reduce the litter sometimes found along trails, at campsites, on beaches and in Florida’s waterways.

  • At Withlacoochee State Trail, you’ll find a refillable water bottle station at the Floral City restroom trailhead.  
  • Learn more.
Florida State Parks

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(850) 245-2157

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