In a state where the highest natural point is just 345 feet above mean sea level, you might not think there’s much in the way of challenging mountain bike terrain but the folks at Alafia River State Park would like to change your mind. Check out this news piece by The Tampa Bay Times highlighting the Alafia River State Park’s trail system featuring 20+ miles of single track with tons of manmade features to keep you off your saddle. Shredding in The Sunshine State…who woulda knew:
The Alafia River State Park trail system is one of the most favored off-road biking choices in Florida, offering more than 20 miles of single track trails. Riders travel from all over the state to ride this collection of rolling terrain, harrowing drops, off-camber hillside ledges, high speed banked turns, and intimidating ridge top trails. These trails are built on the rugged terrain of what was once a phosphate mining site, which helps form the park’s unique trail features. The three easiest (green) trails are connected together to form the “Easy Loop” – an eight mile, one-way trip. Follow the “Easy Loop” signs for: River Loop to Rock Garden to Sand Pine. These trails have minimum elevation changes and easy access from the trailhead parking area. All three trails are designed to accommodate children with small bikes and can be ridden with city bikes. The intermediate (blue) sections are Bridges, North Creek, and Roller Coaster. These are really fun trails with lots of medium-sized hills, from short and steep to more gradual, for speedy downhills. There are several very challenging optional sections along the blue trails (for experienced riders) and the sudden drops, climbs, twists, and turns are just plain fun to ride. Alafia trails offer an enjoyable and challenging experience for riders of all abilities.
