Citrus Wildlife Management Area

The Citrus Wildlife Management Area gravel loop from Sugarmill Woods offers a true escape into Florida's natural beauty, perfect for touring cyclists seeking a remote adventure. You'll navigate through diverse pine forests and sandhills, encountering varied terrain that includes packed dirt, gravel, and challenging loose sand. Keep an eye out for wildlife like gopher tortoises and white-tailed deer as you explore this tranquil, expansive area.

Planning your visit requires some preparation for this 26.7-mile (42.9 km) moderate loop, which typically takes around 3 hours and 17 minutes to complete, with 391 feet (119 metres) of elevation gain. Due to the remote nature and lack of services, it's crucial to carry tools, spare tubes, and plenty of water. Starting your ride earlier in the day is highly recommended to avoid the midday heat and fully enjoy the solitude of the Citrus Wildlife Management Area gravel loop.

This area is a designated wildlife management area, spanning nearly 50,000 acres, ensuring a sense of quiet and excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. Beyond the natural beauty, you might also encounter unique geological features and remnants of old abandoned mining quarries, particularly along sections like Trail 15. The vibrant landscape, with its bright white sand, orange clay, and green foliage, makes this one of the more unique gravel loop routes near Sugarmill Woods.

Embark on a moderate touring cycling adventure through the remote landscapes of the Citrus Wildlife Management Area. This 25.1-mile (40.5 km) gravel loop from Lecanto offers a deep sense of solitude as you pedal through high-quality sandhills and pine forests. You will encounter varied terrain, from packed dirt to challenging loose sand, making for an engaging ride with 552 feet (168 metres) of elevation gain. Expect to complete this route in about 3 hours and 30 minutes, immersing yourself in Florida's natural beauty.

When planning your visit, be prepared for the mixed surfaces you will encounter on the trail. It is always a good idea to check local conditions before heading out, especially regarding the sandy sections. Ensure your touring bicycle is suitable for gravel and potentially loose terrain. Pack enough water and supplies, as the area is remote, and services are not readily available along the route. Starting your ride earlier in the day can help you avoid the midday heat and enjoy the tranquility of the wildlife management area.

This route takes you through a designated site on the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. Keep an eye out for diverse species such as red-cockaded woodpeckers, gopher tortoises, and white-tailed deer. The Citrus Wildlife Management Area is part of the larger Withlacoochee State Forest, providing a significant natural habitat. This area is known for its conservation efforts and offers a unique glimpse into Florida's wild ecosystems, setting it apart as a notable destination for nature enthusiasts.