Cyclists know that experiencing a place from the seat of your bike provides a thrill unlike any other. This is certainly true in Wakulla County, where dozens of different trails and roads are bicycle-friendly. Imagine cycling by unique marshes and tidal creeks nestled directly along the coast, or experiencing the unique beauty of the Florida National Scenic Trail.
You don’t have to be a cyclist with decades of experience to find the perfect trail in Wakulla County. There are opportunities for riders of all ages and skill levels to grab a bicycle and pedal alongside some of the most unique natural scenery in the country.
Tallahassee to St. Marks Historic Railroad State Trail
Riding the Tallahassee to St. Marks Historic Railroad Trail allows you to ride through the forest on a trail that was once home to the first railroad in Florida. At its peak this railroad facilitated the transport of over 50,000 pounds of cotton, some of which was destined for far-away locales such as Europe. The railroad was completed in 1836, and since it was operating before the inception of the steam engine the cars were pulled by mules!
The modernized trail is now approximately 16 miles long, and it winds through the lush forests and small towns that dot the landscape between Tallahassee and St. Marks. If you want to get up close and personal with an integral part of the history of north Florida, and indeed the southern United States as a whole, then biking down the Tallahassee to St. Marks Historic Railroad State Trail should be at the top of your to-do list when you visit Wakulla County.
Ochlockonee Bay Bike Trail
This stunning trail shows how magical a coastal bike ride can be. It’s a total ride of just under 12 miles, and it brings you rolling past the tidal creeks and palm trees that are a hallmark of the Florida Gulf coast. The Ochlockonee Bay Bike Trail will even briefly take you into the St. Marks Wildlife Refuge, so make sure you keep your eyes open for any interesting birds and other animals. It’s a perfect, easy ride for all cyclists.
Other trails, parks, and forests
There are plenty of other options for cycling throughout Wakulla County you’ll want to explore. The Apalachicola State Forest is teeming with miles of trails that can accommodate hikers and cyclists, and the various state forests and parks across the area mean you can see almost the entire county from your bike. Bring your own cycling gear if you have it, but don’t feel like you have to miss out if you if you don’t. There are outfitters in the area that can set you up with everything you need for an adventure on two wheels. Of course, you can’t do everything in one visit, so you’ll just have to book another trip to Wakulla County soon and explore more of this cycling paradise.
