The best road cycling routes around Southgate

Embark on a moderate road cycling adventure around Anna Maria Island, a 44.6 miles (71.8 km) loop that promises diverse scenery. You will pedal along the stunning Gulf of Mexico, enjoying picturesque island vistas and waterfront scenes throughout your ride. With a minimal elevation gain of just 24 feet (7 metres), this route is designed for smooth cruising. Expect to complete the circuit in about 2 hours and 46 minutes, giving you ample time to soak in the coastal charm. The trail guides you past charming coastal towns and pristine beaches, including the well-known Bradenton Beach, offering a truly immersive island experience.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the island is very bike-friendly. You will find many multi-use paths that provide easy access to local shops, restaurants, and various attractions. If you do not bring your own bicycle, bike rentals are readily available across the island. For those driving to the starting point, general parking is accessible, making it convenient to begin your journey.

This route stands out for its unique blend of natural beauty and accessibility, allowing you to explore the island's coastal charm at your own pace. As you cycle, keep an eye out for local wildlife, such as foxes or eagles, which can often be spotted in the nature preserves along the way. The journey along the Gulf of Mexico, passing through charming coastal towns and pristine beaches like Bradenton Beach, highlights why this loop is a favorite for experiencing the region's serene environment.

Embark on a moderate road cycling adventure along the Longboat Key and Lido Key route, covering 35.1 miles (56.4 km) with a gentle 140 feet (43 metres) of elevation gain. This ride, typically completed in about 2 hours and 12 minutes, offers a smooth experience on flat, paved paths. You will pedal past lush vegetation and swaying palms, enjoying the coastal atmosphere. Keep an eye out for the New Pass Bridge, which provides expansive views of Sarasota Bay and the distinctive Ringling Bridge. The route offers glimpses of the Gulf of Mexico and Sarasota Bay, with opportunities to stop at public beach access points.

When planning your ride, be aware that Gulf of Mexico Drive, a key section of the route, can experience significant vehicle traffic, particularly during peak tourist seasons. To ensure a more pleasant and uninterrupted experience, consider starting your ride at dawn to avoid the busiest times. Additionally, connecting bridges to the mainland can also present traffic challenges, so factor this into your timing. There are various public access points along the keys where you can begin your journey.

This route stands out for its unique blend of coastal beauty and urban accessibility, connecting two distinct barrier islands. While direct waterfront views are sometimes limited, the overall experience is defined by the serene island environment and the expansive bay vistas. The journey across the New Pass Bridge is a highlight, offering panoramic scenes of Sarasota Bay. This trail provides a fantastic way to explore the Florida coastline on two wheels, offering a different perspective than a typical beach day.

Cycle the 65.6-mile Myakka River loop, a moderate road ride through Myakka River State Park, known for wildlife and flat terrain.

Easy 11.5-mile road cycling loop on Lido Key, offering flat terrain and scenic coastal views of the Gulf of Mexico.