Rail trail · Florida
Nature Coast State Trail
A 32-mile paved rail-trail across the heart of Florida's Nature Coast, crossing the Suwannee River on a signature 1,000-foot boardwalk and threading small towns, cypress swamps, and open ranch country between Chiefland and Trenton.
Length
32 miles
Surface
Paved, Boardwalk
Route
Point to point
Endpoints
Chiefland to Trenton
Season
Year-round; fall through spring is most comfortable; summer brings heat, humidity, and afternoon thunderstorms
Plan your ride or walk
The Nature Coast State Trail covers roughly 32 paved miles through Gilchrist and Levy counties on a former CSX rail corridor, linking small Gulf-Coast towns from Chiefland north to Trenton. Its signature feature is a long boardwalk spanning the Suwannee River near Fanning Springs, offering close-up views of the dark, tannin-stained water and, in cooler months, manatees that shelter in the warm spring run nearby. The route passes through cypress swamps, open flatwoods, and cattle country, with very little development for long stretches. Side access to Fanning Springs State Park makes a natural rest stop with a spring-fed swimming area just off the trail. Winter and early spring are the sweet spot for comfortable temperatures and wildlife activity.
Getting there
The main southern trailhead is in Chiefland off NW 21st Court, roughly 75 miles southwest of Gainesville via US 19/27. Additional trailheads sit in Fanning Springs and Trenton. The trail connects to the Fanning Springs State Park grounds, where parking and restrooms are available.
Official trail information
Confirm current conditions, closures, and any required trail pass on the managing agency’s page.
Florida State Parks: Nature Coast State TrailWhat to bring
Gear keyed to a long, flat trail day: footwear, hydration, sun protection, and a pack sized for the distance.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Nature Coast State Trail?
The Nature Coast State Trail runs approximately 32 miles point to point from Chiefland through Fanning Springs to Trenton on a flat former railroad grade. Most users ride or walk segments out and back from one of the trailheads rather than the full one-way length.
What is the boardwalk over the Suwannee River like?
The trail crosses the Suwannee River on a dedicated paved boardwalk roughly 1,000 feet long, elevated above the river corridor. It is one of the most scenic points on the trail, and in winter manatees are sometimes visible in the warm spring run at nearby Fanning Springs.
Can you swim near the Nature Coast State Trail?
Yes. Fanning Springs State Park sits directly adjacent to the trail and features a natural spring-fed swimming area. The park has restrooms, picnic areas, and parking, making it a logical midpoint stop on the trail.
Is the Nature Coast State Trail paved?
The main corridor is paved and flat the entire length, with road and hybrid bikes equally at home. There is no separate fee to use the trail, though Fanning Springs State Park charges a standard day-use entry fee if you enter the park grounds.
More Florida trails
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