Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway
A 110-mile linear park offering diverse trails for biking, hiking, and wildlife viewing, including a unique interstate land bridge.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for wildlife viewing
Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway
Best Time
Best for wildlife viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 110-mile linear park offering diverse trails for biking, hiking, and wildlife viewing, including a unique interstate land bridge.
"This is a top-tier bike trail, worth the drive for its smooth paths, beautiful woodlands, and abundant wildlife."
Hydration is Key! 💧
Bring plenty of water, especially for longer rides or hikes, as water facilities are limited on trails.
Respect Trail Rules 🚶♀️🚴♂️
Stick to designated trails; mountain bikes are for bike trails, not hiking-only paths.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Santos Trailhead
Ocala
A hub for mountain bikers with over 80 interconnected trails, plus a paved path for all users.
Land Bridge Trailhead
Near I-75
Experience Florida's first 'land bridge' for wildlife and trail users crossing a major interstate.
Withlacoochee River Waterway
Northern Citrus County
Enjoy scenic rides along the waterway, with opportunities to stop and appreciate the views.
Historical Monoliths
Ocala area
Discover remnants of a long-forgotten barge canal project, adding a unique historical layer.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Trails
Wildlife Encounters
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Hydration is Key! 💧
Bring plenty of water, especially for longer rides or hikes, as water facilities are limited on trails.
Respect Trail Rules 🚶♀️🚴♂️
Stick to designated trails; mountain bikes are for bike trails, not hiking-only paths.
Bike Bliss 🚴
The paved trails are exceptionally smooth and wide, perfect for cycling enthusiasts.
Dog-Friendly Fun 🐶
Leashed dogs are welcome on many trails, making it a great spot for a walk with your furry friend.
Tips
from all over the internet
Hydration is Key! 💧
Bring plenty of water, especially for longer rides or hikes, as water facilities are limited on trails.
Respect Trail Rules 🚶♀️🚴♂️
Stick to designated trails; mountain bikes are for bike trails, not hiking-only paths.
Bike Bliss 🚴
The paved trails are exceptionally smooth and wide, perfect for cycling enthusiasts.
Dog-Friendly Fun 🐶
Leashed dogs are welcome on many trails, making it a great spot for a walk with your furry friend.
Capture the Scenery 📸
The greenway offers beautiful woodlands and wildlife, ideal for nature photography.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway's extensive, well-maintained paved trails, perfect for biking and running, and the abundance of wildlife sightings. Some users express frustration with mountain bikers on hiking-only trails, but overall, the Greenway is highly recommended for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
"Wow, what an amazing natural getaway in the middle Ocala! Exploring the Florida Trail from the Banyan parking area and heading north was truly magical and relaxing! Lots of wildlife and peaceful woodlands!"
Wind Tree Studios
"This place has so much wildlife. Early risers will see the most deers and Fox Squirrels. I come here for the hiking trails for running and just enjoy the serenity. Please note: some people cannot read or just plain ignorant and take their mountain and E-Bikes on the hiking trail that is ONLY meant for FOOT traffic so you may be careful as they are hauling it through there. Other than that, the super wide paved biking, running, and walking path is great too. If you are an evening person, the pack of deers may greet you too! You just never know but either way, it’s always beautiful!!"
Marines Rivera
"The Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway is the epitome of what a bike trail should be.The asphalt blacktop looks newly paved and is almost perfectly smooth the entire 15+ mile ride. It is plenty wide for two way traffic and passing with lots of nice curves and some hills passing through some truly beautiful woodlands in Central Florida just outside of Ocala. Wildlife abounds along its entire length. An added bonus is the 100's of miles of mountain bike trails that intersect along its length in many places. It is super well maintained and marked throughout on the pavement for any emergency that may need reporting. There are only a couple of road crossings with the majority being underpasses and a very unique overpass over Interstate 75. Anywhere there is a blind corner there are large round cornering mirrors and signs to notify you to slow appropriately. There are water and toilet facilities at the Santos Trailhead and further down their is an equestrian campground that also has accessible facilities. If you plan for a down and back ride it is a great workout and make sure to bring some hydration. A large part of the ride is shaded but there is enough sun exposure to warrant sunscreen. All and all, this is a top teir bike trail and worth the drive to get there if you have to travel. Truly My New Favorite Bike Trail! Highly Recommended!!!"
CLC III
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Greenway is a 110-mile linear park, so access points vary. Popular trailheads include Santos Trailhead near Ocala and the Land Bridge Trailhead off I-75. Driving is the primary way to reach these trailheads.
Public transportation options are very limited for accessing the dispersed trailheads of the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway. It's best to plan for travel by car.
Key access points include the Santos Trailhead (known for biking), Land Bridge Trailhead (unique wildlife crossing), and various points along the Withlacoochee River.
The Greenway spans 110 miles, so accessing different sections requires planning. Consider which activities you want to do and choose a trailhead accordingly.
Yes, major trailheads like Santos and Land Bridge offer ample parking for visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway is free to enter and use its trails. Some specific activities or campgrounds might have associated fees.
The Greenway is typically open from dawn to dusk. Specific facilities like restrooms or visitor centers may have limited hours. Always check the official Florida State Parks website for the most current information.
For general trail use, no advance booking is required. If you plan on camping or participating in specific events, it's advisable to check for reservations.
For standard hiking, biking, and dog walking, no special permits are needed. Activities like organized events or commercial use may require permits.
The Greenway is generally open from dawn to dusk. Night access is usually restricted for safety reasons.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You'll find a variety of trails, including over 110 miles of paved multi-use paths perfect for biking and running, as well as natural surface trails for hiking and equestrian use.
Absolutely! The Santos Trailhead is renowned for its extensive network of over 80 miles of challenging mountain bike trails.
The Greenway is a wildlife corridor, so expect to see deer, fox squirrels, various birds, and potentially other native Florida wildlife. Early mornings and evenings are prime viewing times. +1
Restrooms and water facilities are available at major trailheads like Santos. It's recommended to carry your own water for longer excursions.
Yes, the wide paved trails are great for strollers and young children learning to bike. There are also playgrounds at some trailheads.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for scenic overlooks along the Withlacoochee River, the unique land bridge over I-75, and areas with abundant wildlife. The dense woodlands also offer beautiful light.
The Greenway is a wildlife corridor, offering chances to photograph deer, fox squirrels, birds, and other native fauna. Early morning and late evening are ideal.
Yes, you can find remnants of the old Cross Florida Barge Canal, including large monoliths, which offer a unique historical photography subject.
Golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, provide the best light for landscape photography, highlighting the natural beauty of the woodlands and waterways.
Drone usage is subject to Florida State Parks regulations. It's essential to check the specific rules for the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, as amenities can be spread out. The natural setting provides a refreshing escape, and the various trails allow families to tailor their outing to their children's energy levels and interests.
🚴♀️ Avid Cyclists & Mountain Bikers
The well-marked trails and safety features like cornering mirrors enhance the riding experience. Be prepared for varying terrain depending on your chosen trail. Bring sufficient hydration and consider a bike repair kit for mountain biking adventures. The sheer length and variety of trails ensure that cyclists of all levels can find an enjoyable and challenging route.
🚶♂️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
+1 Early mornings are particularly rewarding for spotting deer and other animals. While the paved paths are great for a brisk walk, the natural trails offer a chance to explore deeper into the woodlands. Remember to wear appropriate footwear and bring insect repellent, especially during warmer months. The serenity of the trails provides a peaceful escape for those seeking a connection with nature.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of the Cross Florida Barge Canal
Visitors can encounter massive concrete monoliths and other structures that serve as silent testaments to this monumental undertaking. These historical artifacts add a unique layer of intrigue to the natural beauty of the Greenway, offering a glimpse into a past vision for Florida.
Today, the land acquired for the canal has been repurposed into this expansive greenway, preserving natural habitats and providing recreational opportunities, a stark contrast to its original industrial purpose. It's a fascinating example of how land use can evolve over time.
A Cyclist's Paradise: Trails and Terrain
The Santos Trailhead, in particular, is a mecca for mountain bikers. It features an extensive network of over 80 miles of dedicated mountain bike trails, ranging from beginner-friendly loops to challenging technical descents. These trails wind through diverse terrain, offering an exhilarating experience for off-road adventurers.
Cyclists will appreciate the thoughtful design of the paved trails, which include underpasses and an overpass for Interstate 75, minimizing road crossings and maximizing ride continuity. Safety features like cornering mirrors are also present, ensuring a secure ride.
Wildlife Corridor and Conservation
This designation makes the Greenway a prime location for observing native Florida wildlife. Visitors frequently report sightings of deer, fox squirrels, and a variety of bird species. Early mornings and late evenings are particularly rewarding for wildlife viewing, offering a chance to witness the natural behaviors of these animals in their habitat.
The conservation efforts within the Greenway are vital for protecting these species and their ecosystems. By preserving this extensive linear park, the Greenway contributes significantly to the biodiversity and ecological health of Central Florida.
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