Mount Dora Mountain Bike Trails: A Quick But Fun Ride
Mount Dora Park: Explore the Best MTB Trails
Mount Dora Mountain Bike Trails may not be long but it’s a blast! With fast sections, heart pounding climbs, steep drops and switchbacks, Mount Dora is a hidden gem for mountain biking in Central Florida. While it’s advanced rider heaven, beginners shouldn’t be scared – there’s plenty for all skill levels.
The park has a main yellow loop with great flow and blue options throughout for an intermediate ride with fast sections and tight spaces. The red section is for a more intense ride with steep descents, sharp switchbacks and sudden drops.
Here are some Mount Dora Park trail highlights.
Gravity Destroyer: Known for its fast and fun flow, this trail includes natural and man-made obstacles, enhancing the riding experience for those seeking excitement.
Main Loop: This bi-directional singletrack trail spans approximately 1.9 miles and is suitable for beginners. It features small roots, gentle climbs, and enjoyable downhill sections, providing a balanced riding experience.
Helter Skelter: A challenging black diamond singletrack trail measuring about 4,213 feet in length. It presents a moderate physical challenge with a 103-foot climb, offering technical sections that appeal to advanced riders.
Mount Dora Park is maintained by the Ocala Mountain Bike Association (OMBA) with permission from the City of Mount Dora the trails are well taken care of and continually being added to. A pump track and 18 jump flow trail are being added to the Forres Park side and a warm-up skills area near the entrance for newer riders to practice before hitting the main trails.
For convenience Adrenaline Bike Works a local bike shop is just a short drive away from Mount Dora Park if you need to rent or repair a bike. The park is shaded but bring plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Located in the small town of Mount Dora the trail head is between baseball fields and a dog park at Lincoln Community Park with plenty of parking on weekdays and late weekend afternoons. Not worth traveling a long distance just to ride but a great option for locals or if you’re passing through looking for some quality trail miles.
With it’s varied terrain, well maintained trails and always improving Mount Dora Park is a must ride in Central Florida for all levels of riders. For more adventure check out Santos in Ocala – some would say this is the best MTB trail in Florida.
Trail Access and Amenities
The main entrance is at Lincoln Community Park near the dog park. Trails are mostly shaded with big trees and a beautiful forest. Dogs are allowed but must be on a leash.
Annual Cycling Event: Cycle Mount Dora
Mount Dora hosts the Annual Cycle Mount Dora Bicycle Festival. Cyclists of all levels welcome. 51st edition is Oct 11-12, 2025.
All proceeds from this event will support teaching children how to swim and providing scholarships for those in need, making each ride an opportunity to give back to the community. The event is designed for riders of all skill levels, offering a variety of routes to ensure an enjoyable experience for everyone.
Ride Options Mount Dora Park:
- A metric century for those looking for a long-distance challenge
- Mountainous routes for riders who enjoy elevation and endurance
- A 10-mile scenic ride through Trimble Park for a more relaxed experience
On Saturday, cyclists can take on the rolling hills—riders should select their speed group carefully for the best experience. For beginners or those looking for a lighter ride, a shorter and gentler route is available.
Hydration & Rest Stops:
Participants should bring their own water bottles, as cups will not be provided at hydration stations. However, multiple rest stops along the routes will offer hydration refills and a variety of food options to keep riders fueled throughout the event.
Family-Friendly Activities:
The event is open to all ages, with activities happening on both Friday and Saturday. Children under 15 can register for free with a registered adult. (After registering, participants should email the event organizers to receive free youth registration.)
This event is more than just a ride—it’s a way to enjoy the great outdoors, challenge yourself, and support a meaningful cause.
