Withlacoochee State Trail

I just spent 7 days in the area and 4 of those days riding my bicycle along the Withlacoochee State Trail. The Withlacoochee State Trail is a 46-​mile stretch of railroad track that was converted to a paved recreational trail suitable for hiking, biking, and roller/​inline skating. Horseback riding is available on a separate trail alongside the paved trail. The North end of the trail is located in Citrus Springs, south of Dunnellon, Florida and extends 46 miles to the south ending at the trailhead parking lot at Highway 301 in Dade City, Florida. I rode as far north as the Inverness Trail Head and as far south as the Croom Tract Trail Head, which covered Citrus and Hernando County portions of the trail. I found that the Hernando County segments did not contain much in informational signage (except a scary sign that said we were riding next to a wildlife management area with hunting and should best wear bright colors) but the Citrus County segments were chock full of interesting signage. The trail has some water available, but you are best to bring water bottles with you and fill them up at these spot. Bathrooms are far and few between. You usually have to leave the trail and go into the cities and towns to find public restrooms. There was a port-​a-​potty at the Croom Tract Trail Head which was locked. There is one being constructed at the Floral City Trail Head which is not yet open. There are plenty of opportunities to leave the trail to eat, explore, and more. I was lured off the trail twice by a sign for «HONEY» in Pineola (look for my pictures) and another one that just said «RIVER» in Nobleton. Motorized vehicles are not permitted on the trail (except for the ranger and the state maintenance vehicles), but bicycles, pedestrians, horse riders and leashed dogs are permitted. I enjoyed stopping off at Inverness and visiting its historic downtown which is right off the trailhead — it is very bicycle friendly and there are signs everywhere welcoming bicyclists. I loved this trail and plan to go back to get the St Petersburg segment next trip. I’ve uploaded lots of pictures.

After reading about this trail, we decided to take an overnight trip to check it out. It is the nicest trail we have been to, thus far. The Inverness trailhead has lots of water views and a picturesque park area that is very inviting. On your way to Trilby, down at the other end of the trail, you have some picture-​taking possibilities during your trip through the swampy areas. Some parts of it could use repaving, but overall it is in good shape. I also like the fact that it is well marked and has lots of signs telling people to stay to the right. We didn’t have any of the problems we usually have on Volusia Trails with people walking towards you, on the wrong side of the road, walking their dogs and taking up the entire road, etc.
There are a few water fountains. The best one is in Floral City, in a small park area. The water tasted good and even seemed a little cold.
If you are into biking, you should definitely put this trail on your must try.

What a fantastic place to come and get some exercise, enjoy nature, and fellowship with friends.