Cycling Adventure: Discover the Best Bike Trails in Pinellas County

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Are you an avid cyclist looking for new and exciting bike trails to explore in Florida? Look no further than Pinellas County! With over 100 miles of well-maintained bike trails, Pinellas County offers some of the best cycling opportunities in the Sunshine State.

One of the most popular trails in the area is the Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail, better known as the Pinellas Trail. The Pinellas Trails is a 47-mile stretch of paved trail, made up of several smaller trails, that runs from Tarpon Springs to St. Petersburg. The Pinellas Trail is a multi-use trail, so you’ll see plenty of other cyclists, walkers, joggers, and rollerbladers enjoying the scenery as well. This trail is perfect for cyclists of all levels, as it’s mostly flat and easy to navigate. The trail passes through several charming towns and scenic areas, making it an ideal way to explore the beauty of Florida.

Top Reasons to Bike the Pinellas Trail

Here are some of the top reasons why you should add the Pinellas Trail to your biking itinerary.

Scenic Views

The Pinellas Trail offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico, Tampa Bay, and several parks and nature reserves. You’ll ride through lush greenery, coastal mangroves, and wetlands, and get to see Florida’s wildlife up close. The trail also passes by several historic sites, such as the Belleview Biltmore Hotel, the Sponge Docks of Tarpon Springs, and the Gulfport Casino.

Accessibility

The Pinellas Trail is easily accessible from several points, so you can start your ride from wherever you are. There are multiple parking areas along the trail, and many of them offer free parking. You can also access the trail by public transportation, as many buses and trolleys run along the trail route.

Safety

The Pinellas Trail is a safe and well-maintained trail. It’s patrolled by law enforcement officers, and there are emergency call boxes located throughout the trail. The trail is also well-lit, making it safe to ride at night.

Family-Friendly

The Pinellas Trail is perfect for families with kids. The trail is flat and easy to ride, so even young children can handle it. There are several parks and playgrounds along the trail, so you can take a break and let your kids burn off some energy. You can also stop at one of the many restaurants and cafes along the trail for a snack or a meal.

Community Spirit

The Pinellas Trail is more than just a biking trail, it’s a community hub. You’ll meet other riders, joggers, and walkers along the way. The trail is a great place to make new friends and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow outdoor enthusiasts.

Other Biking Trails Along the Pinellas Trail

As noted, the 47-mile Pinellas Trail is comprised of several smaller trails. In addition, there are a handful of nearby trails worth taking a detour to explore. Here are a few of our recommended trail segments and detours.

Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail State Park

If you’re looking for a more challenging ride, check out the Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail State Park, which offers 7 miles of unpaved trails through lush forests and wetlands. This trail is perfect for mountain bikers looking to test their skills on some tougher terrain.

Ream Wilson Trail

Another great option is the Ream Wilson Trail, which runs along the eastern edge of Clearwater and offers 7 miles of scenic views and wildlife sightings. This trail is perfect for birdwatchers, as it runs through several bird sanctuaries and wetlands.

Dunedin Causeway Trail

For a coastal ride with stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico, check out the Dunedin Causeway Trail. This 4-mile trail runs along the causeway, connecting the mainland to Honeymoon Island State Park. You’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Gulf, as well as opportunities to stop and take a swim or grab a bite to eat.

Fort De Soto Park

Pinellas County also offers plenty of bike-friendly parks, including Fort De Soto Park, which has over 7 miles of bike trails through scenic beaches, dunes, and forests. The park also offers bike rentals if you don’t have your own.

The North Bay Trail

This 3-mile trail runs along the waterfront in downtown St. Petersburg and offers stunning views of Tampa Bay. Along the way, you’ll pass by several parks and restaurants, making it a great spot for a leisurely ride.

The Legacy Trail

While not technically part of the Pinellas Trail, the Legacy Trail in neighboring Sarasota County is a must-ride for cyclists in the area. This 12.5-mile trail runs through picturesque wetlands and offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.

The Duke Energy Trail

This 10-mile trail connects Clearwater to Dunedin and offers scenic views of the Intracoastal Waterway. Along the way, you’ll pass by several parks and beaches, making it a great spot for a family ride.

The Cross Bay Ferry

While not a biking trail per se, the Cross Bay Ferry offers a unique way to explore the Tampa Bay area by bike. Take the ferry from St. Petersburg to Tampa and then hop on your bike to explore the city’s many bike-friendly trails and neighborhoods.

Where to Stop Along the Pinellas Trail

Here are some of the top stops to make along the Pinellas Trail.

Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks

Located in the town of Tarpon Springs, the Sponge Docks are a must-visit stop on the Pinellas Trail. The docks are home to several Greek restaurants, gift shops, and sponge diving tours. You can watch sponge divers bring in their catch or take a tour to learn more about the history of sponge diving in the area.

Wall Springs Park

Wall Springs Park is a 210-acre park that offers a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of the trail. The park features a historic spring, hiking trails, and a playground. You can also take a picnic and enjoy a meal in one of the park’s pavilions.

Honeymoon Island State Park

Honeymoon Island State Park is a beautiful beach park located near Dunedin. The park offers a natural beach, hiking trails, and picnic areas. You can also rent kayaks or paddleboards to explore the nearby waterways.

Dunedin Brewery

Located in the town of Dunedin, the Dunedin Brewery is a must-visit stop for beer lovers. The brewery offers a variety of craft beers and a pub-style menu. You can enjoy a meal and a cold brew while taking in the town’s charming atmosphere.

Gulfport Beach

Gulfport Beach is a small, picturesque beach located in the town of Gulfport. The beach features a pier, playground, and several restaurants and shops. You can take a break from the trail and enjoy the sand and surf for a while.

St. Petersburg Pier

The St. Petersburg Pier is a popular tourist destination located at the southern end of the Pinellas Trail. The pier features several restaurants, shops, and attractions, including an observation deck and a playground. You can spend an afternoon exploring the pier and taking in the stunning views of Tampa Bay.

Biking the Pinellas Trail

If you’re planning a biking trip to Florida, make sure to include the Pinellas Trail on your itinerary. You’ll experience the beauty of Florida in a unique and memorable way, and create lasting memories that you’ll treasure for years to come.

Whether you’re interested in sightseeing, dining, or outdoor activities, the trail offers something for everyone. Make sure to plan your route ahead of time so you don’t miss any of these exciting stops along the way.

No matter which trail you choose, be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and snacks. And remember, always wear a helmet and follow the rules of the road. Happy cycling!

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Also, while we do our best to highlight LGBTQ-friendly destinations and businesses, info provided is based solely on personal experience and recommendations by community partners. We hope that nobody experiences discrimination or homophobia while visiting Florida, but we make no guarantees. Please inform us if you experience discrimination or homophobia while visiting any destination so we can make updates to our recommendations.