Bike Trails in Florida's Southern Region

Florida has many park and trails to offer for people's enjoyment. However, not all of these parks and trails allow bicyclists. Here are a few parks in the southern region of Florida where bicyclists are always welcome.

Highlands Hammock State Park

The Highlands Hammock State Park is almost 5,000 acres and has been open since 1931. This park was created by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). It is one of the four state parks created by the CCC. The park offers a scenic three-mile paved loop for bicyclist and over eight miles of unpaved, double track, trails although bikes are not allowed on all eight of the miles. Admission cost $4 per vehicle, up to eight people, $3 for a single occupant in vehicle and $40 for bus admission.

Highlands Hammock State Park is located at 5931 Hammock Road, Sebring Florida, 33872. Off of US 27 on SR 634 (Hammock Road), four miles west of Sebring. (863) 386-6094

Jonathan Dickinson State Park

Named after a merchant Quaker, the Jonathan Dickinson State Park opening in 1950. The park in near 11,500-acres of river and nature. Endangered and unique animals such as the Gopher tortoise, bald Eagle and Florida Sandhill Crane may be seen along the bicycle trail.

Jonathan Dickinson State Park is located at 16450 S.E. Federal Highway, Hobe Sound, Florida 33455, between Hobe Sound and Tequesta. (772) 546-2771

Florida Keys Overseas Heritage trail

Although there is ongoing design and construction, the Florida Keys Heritage Trail currently has 60 miles of bike trail with another 40 miles being added by next year. Running alongside to US 1, the trail is all paved and will eventually connect ecological resources such as the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, Biscayne National park, 10 different state parks and much more.

The beginning of the Florida Keys Heritage Trail is located one hour from the Miami International Airport in Key Largo. (305) 853-3571

Oleta River State Park

The Oleta River State Park is 1,043-acres, making it the largest urban state park in Florida. The park offers 15 miles of bike trails for the novice rider to the more experienced bicyclist. Oleta has often been said to have the best bike trails in south Florida. The park is open all year long from 8 am until sundown.

Oleta River State Park is located at 3400 NE 163^rd St., North Miami, Florida 33160. (305) 919-1844

sources:
www.dep.statefl.us
www.floridastatepark.org
www.dirtworld.com