Biking

Dixie County is a hidden gem for biking adventures, blending rail-trail rides with wild nature escapes. The Nature Coast State Trail kicks off in Cross City and stretches through woodlands and over the Suwannee River on a historic trestle bridge – a must-stop for a family selfie with a view. The trail is flat and paved, perfect for kids learning to ride or parents towing a trailer. For the more adventurous, the Dixie Mainline in the Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge offers an off-road experience, where you can pedal beneath arching oaks and spot deer or wading birds along the way. Whether you crave a smooth cruise or a backcountry ride, Dixie County delivers laid-back biking charm.

Gilchrist County offers bikers a mix of easy-going trails and refreshing natural springs waiting at the end of the ride. The Nature Coast State Trail cuts right through the county, with a popular stretch linking Trenton to Fanning Springs. It’s a leisurely ride where you can pedal over the historic train trestle at the Suwannee River, often catching sight of turtles basking below. The trail is mostly flat and shaded in spots – great for a family bike day. Pack a swimsuit, because stopping at Fanning Springs or nearby Hart Springs is half the fun; nothing beats cooling off in crystal-clear spring water after a ride. Between its rail-trail routes and backroad bike excursions to rural communities, Gilchrist offers a laid-back cycling experience with a splash of adventure.

Biking in Levy County combines scenic coastal rides with peaceful trails through old Florida landscapes. A favorite family outing is a day on Cedar Key – the quiet streets of this island village are ideal for cruising on beach cruisers or golf cart-style bikes. You can pedal past colorful cottages and pelican-dotted docks, stopping for an ice cream or to watch dolphins play offshore. For a longer ride, hit the Nature Coast State Trail, which winds through Levy’s rural heartland connecting Fanning Springs and Chiefland. This rail-trail offers easy pedaling and a chance to detour to Fanning Springs State Park for a cool swim. Whether you’re exploring small-town streets or tree-lined pathways, Levy County offers a relaxed biking adventure at every turn.

Biking in Taylor County is all about exploring Florida’s “Big Bend” in a fun, family-friendly way. For starters, the Keaton Beach Path offers a breezy coastal ride – a four-mile paved trail that connects Keaton Beach Coastal Park to quiet Dark Island Road. It’s an easy route with salt marsh views and plenty of spots to pause and watch wading birds or catch a Gulf sunset. If your crew is up for a wilderness adventure, head to Econfina River State Park. There you’ll find nearly 15 miles of wooded trails perfect for fat-tire bikes, winding through pine forests and along the edge of salt marshes. You might even see wildflowers or an eagle overhead. Whether you’re pedaling by the sea or under the pines, Taylor County delivers a mellow biking escape packed with natural beauty.