Alafia River State Park MTB Trails: A Florida Mountain Biker’s Paradise
This is one of our favorites places to ride in Florida. Alafia River State Park is a mountain bike mecca carved out of a former phosphate mine and has over 21 miles of trails for all skill levels. The trails are meticulously designed and wind through unique Florida landscapes with high speed turns, big descents and undulating terrain and many wooden features to test your skills. The park is IMBA (International Mountain Bicycling Association) certified and draws bikers from all over Florida and beyond. With diverse terrain and well maintained trails Alafia has something for all levels of riders.
Your Guide To Alafia State Park
Alafia MTB Features
Alafia River State Park trail system offers a variety of features that captivate riders. For medium skill levels, there are thrilling high speed turns, adrenaline-pumping descents, and undulating landscapes with steep banks to navigate. There are more advanced features with higher elevation and thrilling ridgeline tracks.
What Riders Are Saying About Alafia River State Park (Lithia)
Alafia gets talked about like Florida’s “it actually feels like mountain biking” park—fast, flowy sections, real (Florida) elevation, and enough features to keep you coming back. People love that you can ride it mellow on the greens/blues, or level up into tech and drops if you’ve got the skills (and the nerve). It’s also known for being well-maintained and easy to lap, with lots of trail packed into one system.
Shred Worthy
- “Something for everyone” progression: beginner-friendly loops exist, but the jump to advanced/expert options is very real.
- Flow + features: berms, rollers, and manmade spice mixed into natural woods riding.
- Short climbs, quick descents: constant little ups/downs that keep your legs honest without feeling like a slog.
- A few famous “don’t fake it” trails: riders regularly warn people not to wander onto the hardest lines unless they’re ready.
Green Trails
The “Easy Loop” is ideal for novices and families who want to take their time exploring the park’s attractions without encountering too much difficulty. It covers a distance of eight miles. Connects to the River Loop Trail, Rock Garden Trail, and Sand Pine Trail—three of the park’s green-rated trails. The terrain along these trails is mostly flat with some ups and downs which makes it an ideal choice for those starting out.
Blue Trails with Black Fingers
Experienced riders can put their skills to the test on blue-level trails like North Creek and Roller Coaster. Don’t miss the iconic Gwazi Berm on North Creek—a massive wooden feature that starts with a towering berm, transitions into smaller ones, and ends with a jump for those ready to send it! While it looks intimidating, it’s a thrilling ride that offers smooth transitions and the perfect opportunity to boost your confidence and push your limits.
These paths offer different types of hills ranging from quick and steep to gentler slopes offering lots of chances for thrilling downhill rides For those seeking a challenge, there are also Black Diamond optional fingers through intermediate trails to test your limits.
Black and Double Black Diamond Trails
For those chasing the ultimate thrill, Alafia’s black and double black diamond trails are among Florida’s most demanding rides. Featuring steep climbs, razor-sharp turns, and rugged descents, these trails are designed to push even the most skilled riders to their limits. You’ll encounter step downs and ledges with significant drops.
Iconic routes like Gator Back, Moonscape, and Gravitron deliver an adrenaline rush with every twist and drop, ensuring an unforgettable challenge for mountain biking enthusiasts.
Notable Alafia State Park MTB Trails
- Rollercoaster: A local favorite with smooth, rolling terrain and fast, banked turns—perfect for intermediate riders who love speed and flow.
- Moonscape: One of the park’s most advanced and iconic trails, featuring rugged terrain, steep climbs, technical descents, and exposed ridgelines—ideal for experienced riders.
- North Creek: A scenic and technical intermediate trail with bridges, tight turns, and creek crossings, weaving through dense vegetation.
- Rabbit Ears: A high-energy intermediate loop with fast descents, punchy climbs, and a few optional technical features to spice things up.
- Gatorback: Advanced riders will love this trail’s steep, rooty climbs and quick, challenging drops, offering a solid test of endurance and bike handling.
- Sand Pine: A great warm-up or beginner loop with mostly flat terrain and wide, forgiving turns through pine flatwoods.
- Rock Garden: True to its name, this short advanced trail features rocky sections and narrow lines—great for working on technical skills.
Don’t Miss The Quasi Berm (Alafia)
The Quasi Berm on North Creek is basically the session spot—a big, smooth, banked feature that people treat like a mini playground/warm-up zone. It gets described as a “little gem” and a place where riders loop back and hit it again and again, dialing in cornering speed, pumping, and confidence without committing to a full trail lap.
A few common themes:
Heads-up factor: it can feel intimidating fast, and it can get busy—so etiquette and spacing matter
Super fun + repeatable: easy to re-run, so people use it to practice and progress
Ride it your way: you can cruise the low line or carry speed and take the high line
Social magnet: you’ll often see riders posted up there watching, filming, and taking turns
VIDEO: Sessioning Florida’s Best MTB Trails | Alafia
Accessibility and Community
Alafia River State Park is known for its inclusivity, as it provides adaptive trails specifically tailored for riders using hand crank or recumbent mountain bikes that are carefully looked after by the devoted Alafia River State Park Trail Crew. A team of volunteers associated with the Friends of Alafia organization.
The parking area at the Alafia River State Park trailhead has all the facilities such as bathrooms and spots for rinsing bicycles and shaded areas like pavilions where you can relax, play volleyball or enjoy some time at the playground for kids nearby! Moreover the park keeps everyone up to date with news and maintenance details, on Instagram to keep the community connected and involved!
Alafia River State Park, in Hillsborough County, Florida, is a unique camping experience on reclaimed phosphate mining land. The park has a full campground with amenities for you to get into nature.
Bike Rentals at Alafia: On-sight At UBC
If you’re looking to rent at Alafia, University Bicycle Center (UBC) operates a rental + service shop right at/near the trailhead—so you can roll in, get a bike, and hit the dirt without leaving the park. [Rent MTB Bike Link]
What they offer
- Mountain bike rentals (including higher-end options), plus pedal-assist e-bikes and kids bikes
- Repairs / basic service and common essentials so a mechanical doesn’t end your day
- Walk-in friendly, but reserving ahead is the move on busy weekends
Where it is
- UBC at Alafia River State Park
14326 S County Road 39, Lithia, FL 33547
Phone: (813) 459-8293
Hours (posted by UBC)
- Wed–Fri: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sat–Sun: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Mon–Tue: closed (unless it’s a holiday or you’ve scheduled an appointment)
(Hours can change due to park weather/conditions—check before you drive out.)
Reserving
- UBC offers an online “Schedule Your Rental” option (and still supports walk-ins). [Rent MTB Bike Link]
Camping at Alafia River State Park
Alafia River State Park’s campground is a peaceful place to get into Florida’s natural beauty and do some outdoor stuff. Especially if you’re into riding some of the best MTB trails in Florida.
- Sites: Sites with amenities.
- Activities: Bicycling, birding, canoeing, fishing, hiking, horseback riding. The park is famous for its mountain biking trails from beginner to advanced, so get your cycle on!
- Amenities: Picnic areas and wildlife viewing.
Reservations:
To reserve a site at Alafia River State Park, book through the Florida State Parks Reservation System. Check availability and reserve ahead of time to get a spot during your dates.
Access and Location:
The main entrance to the park and ranger station is on County Road 39. Do not use Jameson Road. For directions or more info call the park office at 813-672-5320.
Safety and Regulations
Safety is a top priority at Alafia River State Park. The park is home to various wildlife, including alligators, snakes, and armadillos, so riders are advised to be aware of their surroundings and keep a safe distance from wildlife. The park also has a ranger station available for assistance in case of emergencies. Additionally, riders are required to follow basic safety regulations, such as wearing helmets and staying on designated trails. The park conducts regular trail assessments to ensure rider safety, especially after weather events like Hurricane Milton. These measures help maintain a safe and enjoyable environment for all visitors.
A Must Visit MTB Destination
If you’re in Florida or visiting and love biking adventures, Alafia River State Park is a must-visit destination. Renowned for its variety of thrilling trails, from twists and obstacles to adrenaline-pumping descents, it offers an unforgettable experience for all skill levels. With its exceptional trail system, welcoming community, and stunning natural beauty, Alafia stands out as a premier spot for mountain biking. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely ride or a heart-pounding challenge, this park promises an exciting journey. Why wait? Explore Alafia and experience Florida’s best mountain biking!
Recommended Nearby Trails: Balm Boyette, Loyce Harpe Park – Formally Carter Road, Santos
