The St. Johns River Water Management District has even more reason to celebrate Florida Biking Month: the long-anticipated trail around Lake Apopka is now fully connected.
One of the District’s most popular off-road biking destinations, the Lake Apopka Loop Trail follows the lake’s edge through the Lake Apopka North Shore, offering more than 20 miles of hiking and biking opportunities. Spanning both Orange and Lake counties, the journey around was once incomplete, requiring cyclists to ride sections along roadways to finish the ride.
Today, the more than 40-mile continuous trail around Lake Apopka is fully connected and ready to ride entirely off the roadway. Lake County opened the Green Mountain Connector Trail in December 2025, and Orange County completed the Lake Apopka Connector Trail on Feb. 28. The result is a seamless network linking the Lake Apopka Loop Trail with the West Orange Trail, the South Lake Trail and the Green Mountain Scenic Overlook.
Beyond offering a great way to get outside, explore new areas and experience Florida’s natural beauty, the completed loop is expected to benefit surrounding communities by attracting visitors eager to explore Central Florida’s growing trail network. Cyclists can now travel between multiple counties without leaving the trail, creating new opportunities for recreation, tourism and local economic activity.
“This is a big deal,” says Jim Peterson, the District’s strategic planning basin coordinator for the Ocklawaha River Basin. “It’s a huge recreational boost for the area and an even bigger draw for these trails.”
If you’re not up for riding the entire loop, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the trail at your own pace. The Lake Apopka North Shore features six trailheads, along with multiple access points in both Orange and Lake counties, making it easy to hop on for a shorter ride or walk. The trails aren’t just for cyclists; hiking, birding and horseback riding (on portions of the North Shore) are also permitted. Visitors are encouraged to come prepared, stay hydrated and bring plenty of water, as there is no potable water available on District property.
Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just looking for a scenic weekend ride, Florida Biking Month is the perfect time to explore all that Lake Apopka and the District’s trail system have to offer.
For more information on the Loop Trail and other biking opportunities, be sure to visit www.sjrwmd.com/lands/recreation. Grab your bike and explore the great outdoors this Florida Biking Month!
