The best road cycling routes in Hernando County

This moderate 27.8-mile road cycling loop connects the Good Neighbor and Withlacoochee State Trails through diverse Florida landscapes.

Cycle the 39.9-mile Brooksville Raid Mural loop via Suncoast Trail, a moderate road cycling route with 727 feet of elevation gain.

This moderate 44.9-mile road cycling loop combines the Suncoast Trail with scenic diversions around Weeki Wachee, offering 395 feet of eleva

This road cycling loop combines the best of the Withlacoochee State Trail and the Good Neighbor Trail, offering a varied and scenic ride through central Florida's rural landscapes. You'll pedal through tree-lined sections, past ranches, and even catch views of the Withlacoochee River, with the Good Neighbor Trail adding a few gentle rolling hills to the otherwise flat rail-trail experience. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like gopher tortoises and various bird species, especially near the Croom Wildlife Management Area.

Starting from the Withlacoochee State Trail Manor Ridge Trailhead, you'll find good parking and facilities, which are typical along the well-maintained Withlacoochee State Trail. However, be aware that amenities like water and restrooms can be sparse on parts of the Good Neighbor Trail, so it's wise to bring plenty of hydration. This moderate 36.3-mile (58.4 km) route, with 411 feet (125 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 2 hours and 59 minutes, making it a great option for a half-day outing.

Beyond its pleasant scenery, this route holds historical significance, following former railroad lines from the late 1800s. The Good Neighbor Trail also serves as a vital link in Florida's extensive Coast-to-Coast Trail, connecting the Gulf to the Atlantic Ocean. It's a popular choice for cyclists seeking a blend of natural beauty, manageable terrain, and a touch of local history.

The Withlacoochee State Trail loop from Istachatta offers a delightful escape into "Old Florida" scenery, perfect for a leisurely road cycling adventure. You'll pedal through a shaded, rural corridor lined with live oaks, passing by serene pasture lands and potentially spotting wildlife like deer or river otters. This easy 21.9-mile (35.2 km) route features a mere 172 feet (52 metres) of elevation gain, making it a smooth, comfortable ride that takes about 1 hours and 44 minutes.

To start your journey, head to the Istachatta trailhead, where you'll find convenient parking. The trail is well-equipped with amenities like restrooms, water fountains, and picnic tables at various points, ensuring a comfortable outing. Given Florida's climate, an early morning or late afternoon ride is often ideal, especially during warmer months, to enjoy the ample shade.

As one of Florida's longest paved rail-trails, the Withlacoochee State Trail is a designated National Recreation Trail, offering a unique historical context as it follows a former railroad bed. This particular segment around Istachatta is known for its peaceful seclusion from highway noise and its passage through six distinct natural communities, including mixed hammocks rich with live oaks and cabbage palms.