The best cycling routes around Lakeland

The General James A. Van Fleet State Trail offers a unique touring cycling adventure through Central Florida's rural heartland. You'll glide along a remarkably flat and straight paved path, a former railroad line, passing through open ranchlands, citrus groves, and dense canopied forests. Keep an eye out for wildlife, especially when you enter the Green Swamp Wilderness Preserve, where alligators and various birds are common sights, making for a truly immersive natural experience.

This moderate route covers 40.0 miles (64.4 km) with only 78 feet (24 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 3 hours and 43 minutes to complete. Trailheads at Mabel, Bay Lake, Green Pond, and Polk City provide parking and restrooms, but remember to carry ample water, as amenities are sparse along the remote stretches. It's an ideal choice for a long, relaxed ride, perfect for families or beginner touring cyclists looking for an easy-going journey.

Designated as a National Recreation Trail, this route is celebrated for its peaceful solitude and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Its origin as a historic railroad corridor means you'll encounter virtually no turns, providing an uninterrupted cycling flow. The trail offers a genuine escape from urban life, allowing you to connect with Florida's natural beauty and history in a way few other routes can.

The TECO Auburndale Trail offers a delightful and easy touring cycling experience through Polk County, Florida. This paved route, stretching 12.2 miles (19.7 km) with only 60 feet (18 metres) of elevation gain, guides you through a changing landscape from urban fringes near Lake Myrtle Park to open fields with cattle and horses. You'll also pass through "splashes of nature" like swamp forests and shaded oak hammocks, providing a pleasant mix of scenery for your 1 hour and 5 minute ride.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is well-marked and features benches and rest stations. While restrooms are available at the trailheads, it's wise to be prepared, as maintenance can vary. Remember to bring ample water and sun protection, as many sections run alongside TECO power lines, offering open vistas but limited shade. Exercise caution at road crossings, particularly at Pace Road, which can be busy.

This trail is a fantastic option for beginner cyclists or families, offering a smooth, flat surface built on a former railbed. A significant draw for touring cyclists is its seamless connection to the General James A. Van Fleet State Trail at its northern end in Polk City, allowing for much longer combined routes up to 35 miles one-way. Keep an eye out for bald eagles at the observation area near the southern terminus, adding a touch of wildlife viewing to your ride.

The Lake to Lake Bikeway offers a wonderfully accessible touring cycling experience, winding through Lakeland's characteristic lake-dotted terrain. You'll glide along paved multi-use paths, enjoying views of nine different lakes and passing through diverse landscapes from hardwood forests to open prairies. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including swans and alligators, particularly around Lake Morton and Lake Hollingsworth, making for a scenic and engaging ride.

This easy 14.4-mile (23.2 km) route features a minimal 308 feet (94 metres) of elevation gain, making it suitable for all ages and skill levels, and can be comfortably completed in about 1 hour and 20 minutes. The trail is well-marked with "bicycling swan signage" and connects to various parks and downtown areas. Key trailheads like Lake Hollingsworth offer convenient access, and the Lake Parker Recreation Area provides amenities.

Part of Lakeland's broader Pathways Vision Plan, this bikeway seamlessly integrates with the urban environment, linking neighborhoods and cultural sites like the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed buildings at Florida Southern College. It also connects to eight other bike trails in Polk County, offering opportunities for extended riding and making it a central hub for exploring the region by bike.

If you're looking for a relaxed ride through Lakeland, Florida, the Lake to Lake Bikeway delivers a delightful experience. This touring cycling route offers a blend of urban and natural scenery as it winds around nine picturesque lakes, including the notable Lake Hollingsworth, where you can spot Frank Lloyd Wright-designed architecture. The trail is primarily paved, ensuring a smooth journey through hardwood forests, open prairies, and even glimpses of lowland swamps, with opportunities to see wildlife like alligators and swans.

This easy 10.4-mile (16.8 km) touring cycling route, with a minimal 160 feet (49 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in under an hour, making it ideal for a quick spin or a family outing. The trail is accessible year-round, and you'll find convenient parking and access points near lakes like Lake Parker Wetlands and Wildlife Viewing. Keep an eye out for the distinctive bicycling swan signage that helps guide you along the way.

The Lake to Lake Bikeway is part of a larger 26-mile (42 km) network that connects Lakeland's various lakes, showcasing the city's commitment to non-motorized transportation. Its flat profile and well-maintained surfaces make it a perfect choice for beginner cyclists or those seeking a leisurely ride. Plus, its proximity to downtown Lakeland means you're never far from bike-friendly cafes and pubs for a post-ride refreshment.