Rail trail · Florida
Withlacoochee State Trail
At about 46 paved miles, one of Florida's longest rail-trails, running through Citrus, Hernando, and Pasco counties past the Withlacoochee State Forest, small towns, and open country.
Length
46 miles
Surface
Paved
Route
Point to point
Endpoints
Owensboro / Citrus Springs area to Trilby (Dade City area)
Season
Year-round; fall through spring is most comfortable, with hot, humid summers and afternoon storms
Plan your ride or walk
The Withlacoochee is Florida's classic long-distance rail-trail: roughly 46 paved, flat miles from the Citrus Springs area south to Trilby, threading the Withlacoochee State Forest, lake country, and small towns like Inverness and Floral City. Because it is point to point, most people ride a segment out and back, often basing in Inverness, which sits right on the trail. It is free to use, well shaded in stretches, and a strong pick for road and hybrid bikes, walkers, and inline skaters. The cooler, drier months from fall to spring are the most comfortable.
Getting there
The trail parallels US 41 through Citrus and Hernando counties, about 90 minutes north of Tampa. Trailheads with parking sit in Inverness, Floral City, Istachatta, and several other towns along the route, so you can join almost anywhere.
Official trail information
Confirm current conditions, closures, and any required trail pass on the managing agency’s page.
Florida State Parks: Withlacoochee 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 Withlacoochee State Trail?
The Withlacoochee State Trail is about 46 paved miles, making it one of the longest paved rail-trails in Florida. It runs point to point through Citrus, Hernando, and Pasco counties, so most users ride out-and-back segments.
Is the Withlacoochee State Trail paved?
Yes. The entire Withlacoochee State Trail is paved and flat as a former rail corridor, well suited to road and hybrid bikes, walking, running, and inline skating. It is free to use.
Where can you park on the Withlacoochee State Trail?
Trailheads with parking are spaced along the route in towns including Inverness, Floral City, and Istachatta, plus the northern and southern ends. Inverness is a popular base because the trail runs right through town.
More Florida trails
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