Pedal through paradise: top off-road trails for Florida Biking Month

Mosey on over to the Moses Creek Conservation Area, where you’ll find a 5-mile mountain bike trail maintained by the Florida Association of Single-Track Riders. The single-track trail starts near the property’s east entrance and winds through beautiful maritime hammocks—a rare and precious ecosystem that’s in decline throughout northeast Florida. It’s a perfect spot to embrace the thrill of the ride and enjoy the natural beauty of this coastal landscape.

The Silver Springs Forest Conservation Area offers over 12 miles of lime-rock roads and trails that are ideal for mountain and gravel bikes, with easy access from three main parking areas. Just a heads up—these spots can fill up fast on weekends, so plan to get there early to ensure a prime parking spot before hitting the trail!

In the mood for some wetland views and wildlife spotting? The Emeralda Marsh Conservation Area has miles of mowed and lime-rock capped levees perfect for off-road biking. As you cruise along, enjoy the peaceful marshes and observe the local wildlife, but be mindful—on weekends from mid-February to the end of May, the main levee system is also open to vehicles as a scenic wildlife drive.

The Lake Apopka North Shore is a popular destination for biking with different trail and riding routes to choose from. Whether you want to take a scenic loop along the shorelines of Lake Apopka with the Lake Apopka Loop Trail, try the Clay Island white loop, or tackle the red loop trail on the north side of the property, you won’t be bored here. For an extra wildlife encounter, ride the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive—but keep in mind, you’ll need to share this road with vehicles on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and federal holidays.

If you’re looking for a peaceful ride, Hal Scott Regional Preserve and Park is the spot. With over 20 miles of mowed trails and roads, this property offers a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of the greater Orlando area. As you pedal through the mature pine forests, be on the lookout for the federally protected red-cockaded woodpecker—this special resident relies on the old-growth pine forests that are found in Hal Scott for its survival.

Down south, Three Forks Conservation Area offers expansive views of the marshes and wetlands that form the headwaters of the St. Johns River. With more than 20 miles of lime-rock capped levee roads, this is a peaceful, car-free spot to ride. Perfect for off-road cyclists seeking tranquility, you can enjoy a leisurely journey—just you, the trail and the sounds of nature.