Mountain Bike Trails Near Tampa

Tampa located in the west central part of florida is in close proximity to some of the best mountain biking in the state. We have listed all the trails we think are worth mentioning. Each one has a dedicated trail crew to maintain the trails or are supported by the Florida Park Service.

Mountain biking may not be your first thought when you hear Southeast, but rest assured. A strong Southeast Mountain Biking community and many International Mountain Bicycling Association EPIC trail systems offer enough to explore and experience. The Southeast is one of the most environmentally diverse regions in the country, with picturesque and exhilarating rides from the Appalachian Mountains to the Gulf Coast. Expert trail architects created several of these trails with distinctive topography, elevation obstacles, and thrilling

Stoked MTB aims to be a comprehensive resource for all things Southeast Mountain Biking. We’re aiming to create a diverse community. We invite you to join the conversation and share your ideas and content with us.

Alafia River State Park

Alafia River State Park is a mountain bike mecca carved out of a former phosphate mine and is known for its most radical elevation changes in Central Florida, offering radical elevation that attracts mountain bikers. The park 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. This park has 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. The park also offers hiking trails for those who enjoy exploring on foot.

Balm Boyette Scrub Preserve

You’ve found a gorgeous, exciting mountain bike trail system and Protected scrub sanctuary

Balm Boyette Mountain Bike Trails has 25 miles of single track and 15 kilometers of double track for all ability levels. A reclaimed phosphate mine was used to create the park’s thrilling attractions and runs. Extreme technical trails and flat, picturesque trails will excite and calm you. Finally, Balm Boyette is near the Alafia River State Park, making it a trail system you won’t want to miss if you’re nearby.

When talking about Balm Boyette, Ridgeline is constantly mentioned. The elevation fluctuations and demanding courses make it one of Florida’s top single-tracks. You must have bravery to ride this roller coaster route as rapidly as possible to get up the other side. Most of it is smooth and fast, but the tremendous ups and downs make it challenging. This trail is mostly shaded and has no bailouts.

Share the route with a variety of creatures at Balm Boyette Nature Preserve. A gopher tortoise, scrub jay, or white-tailed deer may greet you on your journey.

Loyce Harpe Park

Like Alafia River State Park and Balm Boyette Park, which are located in areas once used for phosphate mining and have rugged terrains that provide an exciting experience for riders from beginners to advanced and expert levels, Loyce Harpe Park Mountain Bike Trails (formerly Carter Road) are designed to accommodate riders of all skill levels. These steep, twisting trails wind through mining detritus for an exhilarating ride.The riding gang adds berms to the trails. Jumps for extra thrills.

If you prefer a journey through Florida’s beautiful woodlands with soothing water features from the former mine site, fear not! To spice up your hike, the park has a pump track near the trail entrance and wooden constructions along the way.

The park currently features 13 miles of small mountain biking tracks where you can challenge yourself or enjoy a scenic ride.

Croom

Croom Mountain bike paths in Withlacoochee State Forest offer more than a nice ride. A hard workout. There are 50 miles of single-track trails.

Many of Florida’s longest and steepest mountain bike routes are near Croom. Longer distances and steeper inclines make for thrilling rides. With their quick but dangerous ascents and descents, abandoned quarries provide more than distance and height gain. The area’s naturally difficult terrain is ideal for intermediate cyclists looking to improve.

Two miles of jumps, drops, and climbs make Drunken Monkey one of Croom’s most entertaining parts. This singletrack trail winds through one of Florida’s enormous, historic phosphate pits, with quick ups and downs, abrupt turns, and small peaks. After rising one side of the ravine, the route descends steeply and climbs the other, turning into a dirt wall ride.

Jay B Starkey Park

Prepare to test your endurance! Mountain bikers who want a cardio workout while riding through Florida’s stunning scenery should visit the Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park Mountain Bike Trail.

Jay B Starkey is a serious calorie burner with 24 miles of flowy, intermediate single track trails across the park. If you can’t finish the trail, don’t worry. The trail has many paved loops to shorten the trip. Thus, the pathways are family-friendly. Bring kids!

While the trails lack technical aspects, they help riders gain confidence by letting them fly through. Take advantage of flow! Faster speeds make these trails more exciting!

Flatwoods

Flatwoods Wilderness Park is mostly know for it’s 7-mile multi-use paved loop. This features a scenic ride with rest stops that have water coolers to relax at.

However, to the south of Morris B. road, there are quite a few lesser-known MTB trails to ride on. The Flatwoods off-road trails are an excellent ride for beginners, XC riders, or those who just want to build up more stamina. Beginners will have a great time here and will be able to get the grasp on the fundamentals of mountain biking without having to worry about any features that will be outside of their comfort zone.

Always keep others in mind and act accordingly. Several habitats, peaceful lakes, river access, wildlife, and a full day of fun await you as you bike through Trout Creek, Wilderness Park, and Flatwoods Park. This area is ecologically fragile, so please tread carefully.

These trail are used by other users, including hikers and trail runners. Dogs are allowed on the trails, but they must be kept on a leash at all times per county law in Hillsborough.

Trail Etiquette and Safety

When mountain biking at Alafia River State Park, it’s essential to follow trail etiquette and safety guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all riders. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

1. Always Wear a Helmet: Safety first! A helmet is a must, and for those tackling the more technical trails, consider additional protective gear like knee pads and elbow pads.
2. Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Keep an eye out for other trail users, including hikers, horseback riders, and wildlife. Being aware of your surroundings helps prevent accidents and ensures everyone has a good time.
3. Yield to Others: Good trail etiquette means yielding to other users. Be prepared to stop or slow down when necessary, especially on narrow or crowded trails.
4. Stay on Designated Trails: Avoid taking shortcuts or riding on closed trails. This helps preserve the natural environment and keeps the trails in good condition for everyone.
5. Respect Nature: Don’t litter, don’t feed the wildlife, and stay on the designated trails. Respecting the park’s natural environment ensures it remains beautiful and accessible for future riders.
6. Bring Essentials: The Florida sun can be intense, so bring plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection. Staying hydrated and fueled is key to enjoying your ride.
7. Communicate Your Plans: Let someone know your planned route and estimated return time. Riding with a buddy is always a good idea for added safety.
8. Be Weather-Wise: Florida weather can change quickly, especially during the summer months when thunderstorms are common. Be prepared for changing conditions and know when to seek shelter.
9. Know the Trail Map and Ranger Station: Familiarize yourself with the park’s trail map and know the location of the ranger station in case of an emergency. This knowledge can be crucial if you need assistance.

By following these trail etiquette and safety guidelines, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for yourself and other riders at Alafia River State Park. Happy riding!