The Best Scenic bike rides in Gainesville, Florida

Located in Hawthorne, Florida, the Gainesville-Hawthorne Trail Head is a park that serves as the starting point for the Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail. This 16-mile trail takes visitors on a journey through various conservation lands, including the Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park. As you explore this historic rail bed turned greenway, you will encounter native plants, wildlife, and stunning scenery that showcases the beauty of Florida. The trail also offers insights into the area's history, with stops of interest highlighting the story of small railroad towns and human activity along the corridor.

The Gainesville Hawthorne Trailhead Parking is located at the Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail in Gainesville, Florida, United States. This park is a part of the 16-mile long Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail, which passes through scenic areas such as the Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park and other conservation lands. Visitors can enjoy the native plants and wildlife along the trail, as well as learn about the history of the area through various overlooks and points of interest. The recreational trail is paved, with a grassy equestrian trail running alongside for horseback riders. The Sweetwater Overlook at Gainesville Hawthorne Trail offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. This institution is a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers looking to explore the beauty of Florida's natural environment.

Paynes Prairie Preserve North Entrance, located at 4801 Camp Ranch Road in Gainesville, Florida, is a unique and diverse park where visitors can witness wild roaming bison and horses, along with nearly 300 species of birds. The park offers eight trails for hiking, horseback riding, and biking, including the popular Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail. A 50-foot observation tower provides stunning panoramic views of the prairie, while fishing and canoeing on Lake Wauburg are popular activities. The park's 20 distinct biological communities provide habitats for a wide variety of wildlife, including alligators, deer, and birds. Explore the rich history and natural beauty of Paynes Prairie Preserve North Entrance during your visit.

Boulware Springs Park, located in Gainesville, Florida, is a popular tourist attraction and park that serves as a trailhead for the 17-mile Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, hiking, biking, and horseback riding along the scenic trail. The park offers picnic facilities, parking, and an area for unloading horses. City staff and volunteers are working to restore the sandhill and upland pine forest near the parking lot. In January 2020, a new metal roof was installed on the park's pavilion by American Roofing Company, a local business. The project cost $5,495. Boulware Springs Park is open daily from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. from March 15 to September 30, and from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. from October 1 to March 14. The park is also open on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with observed holidays. Visit Boulware Springs Park for a day of outdoor fun and relaxation in beautiful natural surroundings.

San Felasco State Hammock Preserve Parking is a gateway to the stunning San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park in Gainesville, Florida. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, off-road biking, and scenic views in this historic and diverse natural area. The preserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including bobcats, deer, foxes, and numerous bird species. The park offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The southern part of the park is reserved for hikers only, ensuring a peaceful and undisturbed wilderness experience. The northern section has trails for horseback riding, cycling, and hiking.