Cycling

Often called the "Cycling Capital of Florida," our area’s seemingly endless web of safe bicycling trails leads through historic downtowns and passes through fragrant orange groves and cozy communities. Our lakes, many bordered by public parks and sidewalks, offer restful vistas. Our hills and valleys in the southeastern part of the county provide more challenging terrain for mountain bikers.

Two trails of note are the General James Van Fleet State Trail and Carter Road Park Trail. The Van Fleet State Trail, one of Florida’s most rural rails-to-trails, is a 29.2-mile paved trail with a trailhead in Polk City. It is a multi-use trail. Walkers, rollerbladers and horseback riders are common sights on this trail. Lakeland’s Carter Road Park Trail is a true off-road experience, featuring a mountain biking course. Approximately seven miles in length, the single-track trail is built on old phosphate mining land and covers several different types of terrain. As you ride along, look for Florida’s native wildlife.