Outdoors & Nature Insider

Along the Cross Florida Greenway Credit: Amanda Mims

When it comes to Florida off-road biking, the trails along the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway are hard to beat. Mountain bike newbie? Not a problem - there's trails available for every rider regardless of skill level all along the Cross Florida Greenway.

Last weekend I loaded up my gear box, strapped my bike on the rack, and headed out to the Land Bridge Trailhead in Marion County. It's an excellent location to access the Cross Florida Greenway's Epic Ride, a 42-mile singletrack loop trail that is one rated as one of the finest rides in the country. Plenty of riders were out this past weekend, too - some riding just out to the I-75 Land Bridge, others riding around 15 miles (I fell into this bracket), and a couple of folks that were riding the entire loop! 

I haven't gotten in a good ride in a couple of months, and my body let me know it the next day. With all the other outdoor activities that Florida offers, it's hard to for me to decide whether I want to hike, bike, or paddle! So many trails, so little time. This summer I plan on getting some more bike miles in, and at some point I plan on riding the whole 42-mile Epic Ride - stay tuned!

OK, here's a couple of tips to make your ride along the Cross Florida Greenway safe and more enjoyable. First rule - bring more water than you think you will need. You'll thank me for this one!  Florida's summers are very humid and it's easy to underestimate the proper amount of fluids to intake.  Bring along a snack, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera. Throw all of your stuff into a pack with a hydration system so you don't have to stop and fumble with a water bottle. Of course, bike helmets are mandatory, so choose one that fits correctly and has plenty of ventilation.

See you on the Cross Florida Greenway!