Last Updated on January 31, 2025 by JJ
Florida might be famed for its sun-kissed beaches and sprawling wetlands, but it’s also home to a surprising and exhilarating variety of mountain bike trails. From the adrenaline-pumping drops of Santos Trailhead to the scenic, ocean-side paths of Virginia Key, the Sunshine State offers both novice riders and seasoned bikers a chance to explore diverse terrains and challenges. Whether you’re looking to test your skills on steep descents or enjoy a leisurely ride amid beautiful landscapes, Florida’s trails deliver big thrills and even bigger views. In this blog post, we dive into 25 of the best mountain bike tracks across the state, each offering its own unique riding experience.
Florida’s Best Mountain Bike Trails
Santos Trailhead – Ocala
This is Florida’s premier mountain biking destination, offering over 80 miles of trails. The Vortex area includes advanced features like jumps and drops. The trail system is well-maintained and offers a variety of difficulty levels, making it perfect for both beginners and expert riders. Santos Trailhead is known for its dedicated biking community and frequently hosts biking events and competitions. The trails feature well-marked routes, ensuring riders of all skill levels can navigate safely. The terrain includes rolling hills, smooth paths, and technical rock gardens for more experienced riders. Rest stops and picnic areas are available along the trails for those who want to take a break and enjoy the scenery. Nearby, visitors can stay at The Equestrian Hotel for luxurious lodging or opt for a cozy cabin at Silver Springs State Park. For dining, local favorite Latinos y Mas serves excellent Latin cuisine, while Big Lee’s BBQ is known for its delicious smoked meats.
Visit Santos Trailhead
Alafia River State Park – Lithia
Set on reclaimed phosphate mines, the park’s trails offer unique topography with steep climbs and fast descents, perfect for more experienced riders. Alafia’s trails are some of the most technical in Florida, featuring rock gardens, switchbacks, and jumps. The park includes trails suited for all levels, from beginner-friendly loops to the infamous Moonscape trail known for its rugged features. With over 20 miles of trails, this park is a paradise for mountain bikers looking for an adrenaline rush. The scenery is diverse, featuring dense forests, open meadows, and beautiful riverside views. The park also offers picnic areas, restrooms, and a well-equipped bike wash station. Overnight visitors can stay at nearby Hampton Inn Plant City or camp at Alafia River State Park Campground. Dining options include the highly-rated The Brisket Shoppe for BBQ lovers and The Stein & Vine for craft beer and delicious pub food.
Visit Alafia River State Park
Balm-Boyette Scrub Preserve – Lithia
Comprising over 25 miles of trails, this park offers a less crowded alternative to nearby Alafia with a great variety of trails from easy to difficult. Balm-Boyette is home to flowing singletrack trails, fast descents, and technical features for more advanced riders. The area is known for its scenic beauty, with trails weaving through forests, wetlands, and open scrublands. The park is also a favorite among wildlife enthusiasts, as riders often spot deer, turtles, and native birds. The Ridgeline Trail is a highlight, offering a thrilling ride with steep drops and high-speed berms. Trail markers and maps are available at the entrance, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride. Parking is available but limited, so arriving early is recommended. Visitors can stay at Hyatt Place Tampa/Brandon for a comfortable overnight experience or opt for rustic camping at Lithia Springs Park. After riding, refuel at Fred’s Market Restaurant for Southern comfort food or Bullfrog Creek Brewing Co. for craft beer and pub-style bites.
Visit Balm-Boyette Scrub Preserve
Virginia Key Mountain Bike Park – Miami
Located close to downtown Miami, this park features a range of trails for all abilities and beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean. Virginia Key is well-loved by both locals and visitors looking for an urban escape with a twist of adventure. Trails include beginner-friendly loops as well as more advanced sections featuring wooden berms, rock gardens, and tight switchbacks. The park’s waterfront setting provides a scenic and refreshing backdrop, making every ride feel special. The well-maintained trail network ensures safe and enjoyable rides for all levels. Nearby accommodations include The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne for luxury stays and Hampton Inn Coconut Grove for budget-friendly options. Refuel at Rusty Pelican for fresh seafood or Monty’s Raw Bar for casual waterside dining.
Visit Virginia Key Mountain Bike Park
Markham Park – Sunrise
Known for its challenging terrain, tight singletrack, and technical obstacles, this park is ideal for advanced riders looking for a tough workout. The well-maintained trail system features a variety of jumps, drops, and switchbacks. Visit Markham Park
Graham Swamp Preserve – Palm Coast
This scenic trail is packed with elevation changes and technical sections, making it a rewarding challenge for experienced mountain bikers. The swamp setting offers a mix of wetlands, sand, and rocky paths. Visit Graham Swamp Preserve
Jonathan Dickinson State Park – Hobe Sound
Home to the Camp Murphy Trail System, this park includes over 10 miles of mountain biking trails ranging from easy to expert levels. The mix of sandy and forested trails makes for a unique ride. Visit Jonathan Dickinson State Park
Amelia Earhart Park – Hialeah
A 5.5-mile network of well-maintained mountain bike trails featuring a pump track and skills area, making it great for riders of all skill levels. Visit Amelia Earhart Park
Tom Brown Park – Tallahassee
Offers a diverse range of trails, including the Cadillac Trail, a favorite among local riders for its technical features and fast descents. Visit Tom Brown Park
Mala Compra Plantation Greenway – Palm Coast
A 5.5-mile trail known for its rocky and root-covered sections, providing a fun and technical challenge for experienced bikers. Visit Mala Compra Plantation Greenway
Oleta River State Park – North Miami
Florida’s largest urban park offers over 15 miles of intermediate to difficult trails, surrounded by stunning coastal scenery. Visit Oleta River State Park
Loyce E. Harpe Park – Mulberry
Known for its Carter Road trails, this park features tight, twisty singletrack through wooded areas and offers a fun ride for intermediate and advanced riders. Visit Loyce E. Harpe Park
San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park – Alachua
With a mix of fast, flowing singletrack and technical climbs, this park is a favorite among experienced riders looking for a challenge. Visit San Felasco Hammock Preserve
Caloosahatchee Regional Park – Alva
Scenic trails along the Caloosahatchee River provide a mix of technical climbs and fast descents, making it a great spot for all levels. Visit Caloosahatchee Regional Park
Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park – Jacksonville
With over 20 miles of trails varying in difficulty, this coastal park offers a mix of hard-packed dirt, sand, and tree-covered singletrack. Visit Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park
Tillie Fowler Regional Park – Jacksonville
A quiet escape with trails winding through pine forests, this park provides a good mix of easy and intermediate paths. Visit Tillie Fowler Regional Park
Croom Mountain Bike Trails – Brooksville
Located in Withlacoochee State Forest, this extensive trail system offers something for every level of mountain biker. Visit Croom Mountain Bike Trails
Key Vista Nature Park – Holiday
Primarily a hiking destination, but it offers some bike-friendly trails with incredible views of the Gulf of Mexico. Visit Key Vista Nature Park
Lake Louisa State Park – Clermont
Rolling hills and picturesque landscapes make this a peaceful biking experience, with several miles of scenic trails. Visit Lake Louisa State Park
Picayune Strand State Forest – Naples
A remote and rugged set of trails through cypress swamps and pine flatwoods, perfect for those looking for a backcountry ride. Visit Picayune Strand State Forest
Carters Road Mountain Bike Trails – Lakeland
Popular for its technical features and jumps, this trail system provides a thrilling experience for more experienced bikers. Visit Carters Road Mountain Bike Trails
Redbug Trail – Tallahassee
A quick and fun trail featuring some technical sections, perfect for intermediate riders looking for a challenge. Visit Redbug Trail
Conclusion
Exploring Florida by mountain bike is an adventure like no other. With trails designed to cater to every level of experience and located in some of the most stunning settings imaginable, it’s easy to see why these 25 tracks are considered the best of the best. So grab your bike, a couple of friends, and hit these trails—each pedal stroke promises new discoveries and memorable experiences. Don’t forget your helmet!
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