Cross Florida Greenway - Withlacoochee Bay Trail, Florida, United States

5StarfishandSeashells 5:00 PM Aug 15, 2014

Paved Bike Trail to the Gulf
This five mile paved bicycle trail is about nine miles from downtown Crystal River on Hwy 19 N. Just before approaching the bridge over the canal, turn left. The first time we parked near the bridge and road half the trail to where the bathrooms are located. The second time we drove down a dirt road to the bathroom and and parked in that parking lot and rode to the Gulf scenic overlook. We saw dolphins, osprey, and four pink birds. There is a covered overlook area with a large picnic table at the Gulf, as well as different spots along the way to stop and sit on covered benches near the water. From the bridge, there is also an equestrian access.

5westmotraveler 5:00 PM Feb 9, 2018

Little Not To Like - After You Find It
Florida has great paved bike trails. This little gem is a great short ride for individuals at the extremes of the age spectrum. We ride this once a week when visiting Crystal River. As other have said it can be difficult to find. The easiest way to locate is it is turn East at the South end of the bridge over the Withlacoochee channel at the RV park. We have found the most pleasurable way to ride is to park at the far east parking area and first ride to the end of the trail going east. That direction has most of the "hills" (small inclines) and passes a small man-made lake. After reaching the end, we turn west and follow the trail to the gulf and then finally return 5 miles to the parking area. As others have stated there is little shade along the trail, so we always get their early before the sun gets intense. Overall the trail is relatively flat, the surface is smooth and well maintained. You ride along the Withlacoochee Channel, although you cannot see it at all times. Even on the weekends there isn't a lot of pressure on it. At 12 miles round trip it is a perfect length for us of the Pepsi generation.