The best road cycling routes around Howey-In-The-Hills
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riders
14
rides
Road cycling routes around Howey-In-The-Hills offer a distinctive terrain of rolling hills, a notable contrast to much of Florida's flatter landscape. The region is characterized by its numerous lakes, including Little Lake Harris and Lake Apopka, providing scenic waterfront views. Cyclists can also experience the area's agricultural heritage through its citrus groves. This varied topography makes Howey-In-The-Hills suitable for road cyclists seeking diverse routes.
Best road cycling routes around Howey-In-The-Hills
- The most popular road cycling route is Lake Dora loop…
Last updated: May 14, 2026
4
riders
43.6km
01:47
170m
170m
This easy 27.1-mile (43.6 km) road cycling loop around Lake Dora offers picturesque views and takes about 1 hour and 47 minutes.
39
riders
112km
04:55
800m
800m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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26
riders
84.1km
03:35
410m
410m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
19
riders
112km
05:11
1,070m
1,070m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
18
riders
74.8km
03:19
400m
400m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Howey-In-The-Hills
Tips from the Community
Sugarloaf Mountain Road in Orange County, Florida, is a favorite among local cyclists looking for elevation in an otherwise flat state. Winding through the rolling hills near Clermont, it leads to the highest point in peninsular Florida—Sugarloaf Mountain, at 312 feet. The road offers steep climbs (by Florida standards), fast descents, and scenic views of citrus groves, open fields, and lakes in the distance. It’s a popular route for road cyclists and training rides, with light traffic but no dedicated bike lanes—so ride with caution. Pair it with nearby roads like North Ridge and Frank Jarrell for a hilly loop.
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Great trail - completed the clermont tri on this one. Great for biking running, but can get a little crowded during peak hours
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This well-manicured roundabout is near the Tavares town center, with Memorial Park, Lake County Historical Museum, Lake County Court, and more all within a one-block radius. This is also one end of the Tav-Lee Trail.
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Waterfront Park is a great place to stop; there is ample parking, a large sheltered area with picnic benches underneath, and restrooms. Walk out on the pier to get a good look at Lake Minneola.
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Lake Hiawatha Preserve is nestled up against Lake Hiawatha and Lake Minneola and encompasses 220 acres. There are a couple dog parks, playgrounds, and restrooms that you can access from the South Lake Trail that passes through the heart of the preserve.
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Sparkling Water Lake is one of a number of lakes in Clermont. It is one of the smaller bodies of water in the area, but what sets this lake apart from the others is the very clear water.
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Scenic views along Lake Minneola, the trail serves as a link in the Florida Coast-to-Coast Trail (C2C). Clermont, at the midpoint, is a designated Florida Trail Town. Along the waterfront between Clermont and Minneola is a particularly enjoyable section.
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Lake Hiawatha Preserve is nestled up against Lake Hiawatha and Lake Minneola and encompasses 220 acres. There are a couple dog parks, playgrounds, and restrooms that you can access from the South Lake Trail that passes through the heart of the preserve.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect when road cycling around Howey-In-The-Hills?
Unlike much of Florida, Howey-In-The-Hills is known for its distinctive rolling hills, earning it the nickname 'Florida Alps'. You'll find varied terrain, from gentle slopes to more challenging climbs, alongside picturesque lakes and charming citrus groves. This offers a dynamic cycling experience for various fitness levels.
Are there any road cycling routes with significant elevation gain in the area?
Yes, for cyclists seeking a challenge, the region offers routes with notable elevation gains. For example, the Sugarloaf Mountain loop from Astatula is a moderate 70.6-mile path featuring significant elevation, including the area's highest point.
Which road cycling routes are suitable for beginners or those looking for an easy ride?
Beginners can enjoy several easy routes. The Lake Dora loop — Apopka is an easy 27.1-mile trail offering scenic views. Another great option is the Grantham Pointe Park loop from Tavares, an easy 12.5-mile route.
Are there any long-distance road cycling routes available?
Yes, for longer rides, consider the Sugarloaf Mountain loop from Astatula, which spans 70.6 miles, or the South Lake Trail – South Lake Trail loop from Green Mountain Scenic Overlook & Trailhead, a 53.9-mile route that takes you through varied landscapes.
What scenic viewpoints or natural features can I expect to see along the road cycling routes?
Road cycling routes in Howey-In-The-Hills often feature stunning views of lakes like Little Lake Harris, Lake Harris, and Lake Apopka. You can also cycle through charming citrus groves and past nature preserves. The Green Mountain Scenic Overlook is a notable viewpoint offering panoramic vistas.
Are there any family-friendly road cycling options in the area?
While specific dedicated family trails for road cycling aren't highlighted, many of the easier, well-paved routes like the Lake Dora loop — Apopka are suitable for families with older children or those comfortable with road riding. The area also has local trails for cycling that might be more suitable for younger riders.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Howey-In-The-Hills?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the unique rolling hills that provide a welcome challenge compared to other parts of Florida, as well as the scenic beauty of the lakes and agricultural landscapes.
Are there any loop routes for road cycling around Howey-In-The-Hills?
Yes, many routes are designed as loops, offering a continuous ride without retracing your path. Popular loop options include the Lake Dora loop — Apopka, the Sugarloaf Mountain loop from Astatula, and the South Lake Trail – South Lake Trail loop from Green Mountain Scenic Overlook & Trailhead.
What are some interesting landmarks or attractions near the road cycling routes?
Beyond the scenic routes, you can find several attractions. The Clay Island Observation Tower offers great views, and the Lake Apopka Loop Trail is a popular spot. You might also encounter the Lake Apopka Hammock, providing a glimpse into the region's diverse ecosystems.
What is the best time of year to go road cycling in Howey-In-The-Hills?
The cooler, drier months from late fall through spring (roughly November to April) are generally considered the best for road cycling in Howey-In-The-Hills. During this period, temperatures are more comfortable, and humidity is lower, making for a more enjoyable ride.
Are there any shorter, easy road cycling routes for a quick ride?
Absolutely. For a shorter, easy ride, consider the Sugarloaf Mountain Road loop from Green Mountain Scenic Overlook & Trailhead, which is an easy 10.6-mile route. The Grantham Pointe Park loop from Tavares is also a good option at 12.5 miles.
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