Trail is
Avg Rating:   |
93 trail reviews |
Difficulty:  - Advanced |
|
| Length: 14 miles | Global Rank: #12 |
| Tread: Singletrack | Configuration: Network |
| Ridden: 352 | Wishlist: 184 |
| 78 trail check-ins |
Climb // Descend +2,900 // -2,500 feet |
| Average Speed: 8.5 mph | Average Time: 1hr 25min |
Directions
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Description
The skinny:
Alafia River State Park singletracks are IMBA EPIC certified. Wide range of novice to intermediate to advanced to highly advanced sections. The trailhead parking lot has bathrooms with hot water, bicycle rinsing stations, shaded pavilions, a volleyball net and a playground.
Camping and equine trails are available.
Parking fee: $4.00 for vehicle with driver only or $5.00 per car load (up to 8 people).
For further information visit: www.floridastateparks.org/alafiariver/default.asp and www.swampclub.org
Loyce E. Harpe Park (carter Road) (76%)
Santos (76%)
Markham Park (52%)
Oleta State Park (41%)
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Description
The skinny:
Alafia River State Park singletracks are IMBA EPIC certified. Wide range of novice to intermediate to advanced to highly advanced sections. The trailhead parking lot has bathrooms with hot water, bicycle rinsing stations, shaded pavilions, a volleyball net and a playground.
Camping and equine trails are available.
Parking fee: $4.00 for vehicle with driver only or $5.00 per car load (up to 8 people).
For further information visit: www.floridastateparks.org/alafiariver/default.asp and www.swampclub.org
added by Adventurecycling 
on July 12, 2004
on July 12, 2004Trail Reviews [Add a review]
Review: This place is sick! Trails have great flow and awesome speed. Has everything from beginner to expert. A great workout and a huge shot of adrenaline. Trails are well marked and the facilities at the trail head are top notch.
Similar Trail: Loyce Harp
Similar Trail: Loyce Harp
Review: Alafia's trails are in the best shape they have been in a long time. With Jeff the trail boss constantly doing trail work with his wife and some crew every week. It just keeps getting better and better. Me and a few of my riding friends have actually been adding a few new additons to the trails recently, like on North Creek and Roller Coaster, which include nice banked berms, pump bumps, and a few double jumps, with many more to follow in the future. And also Jeff and his crew have started on a completely new trail extension off of North Creek that's going to be called Devils Island, which should trun out to be a great addition to that already super fun trail. So if you ride this trail system at Alafia, you'll have new and improved options each week that will be added for you to ride!!!
Review: I rode the green and blue trails... and there were plenty! Some of the best rides of my life :) Florida is great for its lush vegetation and each trail had different scenery from water to ferns to palmetto. Great signage and lots of options. My favorite was probably north creek or bridges. I appreciate the options for easy or harder on the intermediate trails. And I was surprised to see random trick spots like ramps between trees. Easy trails were super gentle, sand and gravel soften up tough roots, I could take my little sister. Watch out for sandy pine-it really is sandy, and hot. The rest of the trails were hard packed dirt and shady. Double black diamonds available and they looked gnarly.
Review: Man, I have never really experienced mountain biking until I rode here. The trails I usually ride (Soldier's Creek and the Econ State Park near Orlando) rarely test my abilities and endurance, but I was dog tired after two days riding here and completely thrilled! I recommend Roller Coaster and Bridges to everyone and Rabbit Ears for those who are confident, but have never ridden REALLY hard, fast trails (its only 0.25 mi). I didn't attempt anything harder, but might next time! The campground is alright: $25 a night for a place to park and neighbors close by. Its really meant for RV's, not real camping like I would prefer. But the convenience is worth it. Here's a link to a (free) trail map on the State Park website:
http://www.floridastateparks.org/alafiariver/doc/additionalinformation/alr-website_bike_brochure.pdf
http://www.floridastateparks.org/alafiariver/doc/additionalinformation/alr-website_bike_brochure.pdf
Review: Went up there last Sunday (09-16-12) for the first time with my wife. A lot of people there, yet riding was not too crowded.
Our first ride was on "Roller-coaster." That most certainly lives up to it's name.
Good to see one-way, well-marked trails.
We enjoyed all the trails we rode (we'll leave the "double-diamond" ones for future time) and will be back.
Review: I agree with (Roller-coaster) living up to it's name. I also agree with leaving the double black diamond trails alone until later.
Review: A littlle wet today but not bad, SWAMP great work on gatorback was a great ride.
Review: Go to the video tab. I just recently posted a video of the Gatorback trail at Alafia only a few weeks old, should be the first video.
Review: planing on going to the trails 09/02/2012 anyone has new pics of the area , my first time , all pics are from 2007 ??
Review: Go to pictures and click one. then, click the down arrow (it shows the # of pix). Go to the very last picture and work your way backwards. For some reason they don't put the newer ones in the front.
Review: Still a great trail to ride even though the heavy rains have made the lowest elevations very sloppy and eroded several on the steepest grade changes. Don't ride trails beyond your skill level or you will get hurt as the EMTs are frequent visitors.
Review: Visited on 08/05/12 had a great time, conditions were great exactly what i expected great ride tough trails, plus bike wash love it.
Review: Swamp riders should really consider closing "river loop". It was by far the mudddiest ride i have ever had. Blues were all pretty dry but the greens were wet especially river loop. Facility was great but the trails were in pretty poor shape. Only rode a few black diamonds and they seemed fine but the hole place is in need of maintenace I am in no hurry to return.
Review: Somebody help gatorback! Trail maintenance has been done to the easier trails but poor gatorback has been Hung out to dry over rooted , washouts etc
Review: Great trail system. As a visitor to FL, I've found the "phosphate mine" style trails to be a lot of fun as I've never ridden anything like they before - steep drops and climbs. Check out videos of Gatorback/Moonscape/Franks Loop to see what I'm talking about. Don't waste your time on the easier trails like Sand Pine and Rock Garden - they weren't challenging enough and were washed out and overly rooty thanks to the rain.
Similar Trail: Santos, Balm Boyette
Similar Trail: Santos, Balm Boyette
Review: Rode Alafia 7/22/012 as well and had a blast. The Gatorback trail was riding fast!
Review: Rode Alafia's trails yesterday 07-22-12 and they were all pretty much in good shape...
Review: What can I say that hasn't already been said? It's a GREAT trail system, and a great workout! I learned not to ride alone on this trail- the hard way. One separated shoulder and a bruised ego later...but I'd still love to come back! I live in jax, and the closest thing to the technical stuff here that I can think of is at mala campra (another of my favorites)
Similar Trail: Mala Campra, Santos
Similar Trail: Mala Campra, Santos
Review: Only got to ride a few of the trails and from all the rain we've been getting there are spots on the trails that have sand build ups on, and a couple washouts here and there. Only seen one spot on North creek that was closed for maintence, but the rest we rode was definitely rideable. Hopefully once the rain stops the trails will beable to be repaired to the riding conditions they usually are.
Similar Trail: Carter Road
Similar Trail: Carter Road
Review: This Park has a great parking area plus a system of trails that are suited for all leveled riders from begineers to advanced riders. And all the scenery is great as well. I give Alafia a 2 thumbs up.
Similar Trail: Being that I have not ridden to many local spots I would say Loyce Harpe Park would be similar.
Similar Trail: Being that I have not ridden to many local spots I would say Loyce Harpe Park would be similar.
Review: First of all I was impressed with facilities at the trailhead - simply best. And the trail itself is fun to ride. But, like others mentioned, hard to navigate sometimes when there are no signs at intersections. Other then signage, I'd say if you're in the area, it's well worth of an hour driving. I wish it was dry, so I can ride Moonscaper too. Roots and drops are sweet and unpredictable in some places. It's a technical and challenging trail not for first-time riders.
Review: This system of trails is great. It has technical sections with massive roots and nice climbs, for Florida.
Really wet right now, TS Debbie has dumped some rain over the last few days.
* Review edited 6/26/2012
Similar Trail: Balm-Boyette
* Review edited 6/26/2012
Similar Trail: Balm-Boyette
Review: I understand where Rich67 is coming from and for the regular MTBer some of the trails are a little challenging but... I love the roots, washouts, etc. I don't believe that every trail has to have flow. There are riders like myself that love the challenge of a hardcore/ungroomed trail but we are the minority. I think a system with a couple of flowing and a couple of super technical trails sounds perfect. I really enjoy Alafia. Thanks SWAMP club.
Similar Trail: Boyette
Similar Trail: Boyette
Review: I went back out to Alafia after a hiatus (been spending time at Boyette), and I am seriously disappointed. The trails are sketchy, rooted, and some are downright dangerous due to the layout and obstructions. The only trails with any flow to them are North Creek and Bridges. Roller Coaster and Moonscape have gone downhill. The other trails like Rock Garden and Sand Pine are overgrown with roots and not fun to ride at all anymore. I tend to avoid some of the other trails because of the lack of flow and enjoyment factor. I have a hell of a lot more fun on Ridgeline and Abyss at Boyette-those trails flow and are a blast to ride. Hopefully someone goes out to Alafia and revamps the trail system out there- it's just not all it's cracked up to be anymore.
Similar Trail: Boyette, San Felasco, Santos
Similar Trail: Boyette, San Felasco, Santos
Review: Great trails... Be careful out there!!!
Review: SICK, SICK, SICK!!!!!!!!! Such a great ride!!!! So many different trails to keep you busy and well satisfied ALL DAY LONG!!!!!!
* Review edited 5/15/2012
Similar Trail: Just starting the mountain bike gig but so far this has been the best place....
* Review edited 5/15/2012
Similar Trail: Just starting the mountain bike gig but so far this has been the best place....
Review: Loved this trail system, a bit difficult to navigate at times but wow sums this trail up.
Review: it was kick ass!!!! one of the best trails I have bike on
Review: This park is amazing. The only thing I would say is to make sure you know what you're doing before you cruise down a double black like gator back because if you don't, you could seriously get hurt. Bridges is good, roller coaster is great, and if you want to go higher than those just know what you're getting into.
Similar Trail: Something in Colorado or northern California.
Similar Trail: Something in Colorado or northern California.
Review: Was a good trail for the first time riding here. Only thing I didn't like was the lack of markings at some intersections. A few of us first timer groups were trying to figure out which way to go. Didn't get to ride everything so I'll need to go back to hit the rest of it.
Review: Absolutely the greatest trail I have ridden. The trail has numerous sections based on ability that are marked well. The trail is very well maintained thanks to S.W.A.M.P which is a club that does all the maintenance. Gatorback was extremely difficult due to the rocks roots and steep quick climbs and descents. You must choose your line wisely. My favorite was the Rollercoaster. Don't over look the east trails because they are still a lot of fun to ride. The scenery is pretty amazing as well with the Spanish moss hanging from the trees in a what feels like a thick jungle.
Review: Try Gatorback at Alafia if you want extremely tough. Florida has lots of roots. If you know how to ride them, it is no different than riding rocks. Loyce Harper Park (aka. Carter Road) is also a fantastic and challenging trail. Santos in Ocala has some crazy stuff, especially the Vortex.
Similar Trail: Carter Road, Markham Park, Santos, Hailes trails inGainesville (private, except races)
Similar Trail: Carter Road, Markham Park, Santos, Hailes trails inGainesville (private, except races)
Review: Great place to test your skills! Has a trail or two for everyone at every skill level! If thinking about a trip, this place is a must!
Review: Was disappointed, trails have great potential but too many roots, Spent most of my time slowing dowafn instead of catching air. Seems that trail rating signs are over played . The harder it said it was the more roots it had. But moonscape was worth the trip. About two truck loads of red clay to fill up some of the gaps .between roots before and after technical sections would speed up the trail greatly and turn not so technical white knuckle status. Like I said great potential could be a top 5 technical xc tracks in the country. I still think the fingers at loyce harper are better to train on but also remember it is a use at your own risk trail aka no suing. Alafi does not have that luxury so I guess they can't get that crazy with the trails
Review: Great ride and quite surprising for Florida. Really well maintained, well marked and fun trails. I ride through out Florida and this is the best FL has to offer.
Similar Trail: Santos
Similar Trail: Santos
Review: Why is it that out of towners have the holier than thou reviews? If Ohio dude wants more dificult he should ride the double diamonds like Moonscape. We travel from Pa every winter to ride here and love it. There are no long climbs like at home but the change of pace short climbs and drops are a welcome change and are a ton of fun to ride. The use of the terrrain is excellent and every year there are a few new sections. Well planned, well maintained, lots of variety for this topography and beautiful scenery, [owls, gators, armadillos] and a nice campground to stay at. Compared to Santos? ride 'em both!
Similar Trail: Santos, Markham Park
Similar Trail: Santos, Markham Park
Review: This is a nice little park. a lot of work went into it. I rode the Rollercoaster loop and the Gatorback, as well as some of the beginner and intermediate trails. Although very enjoyable, with technical challenges, it does not seem epic. It's worth the drive from Tampa, or if you're heading back north from the gulf coast. Not sure I would make the drive from Orlando, with Santos nearby.
The good: Lots of trails. Various difficulty levels. Good use of topography for those who like quick ups and downs. It's nice to have a place to wash the bike.
The less good: If you like long, flowing lines so that you can build up speed, this isn't the place. Nothing I rode seemed that difficult, although I didn't ride Moonscape. If they made the lines just a little longer on the intermediate rides, it would be possible to really fly along.
I'm calling it a good after-work ride because it reminds me of the trail out my back door in Medina, Ohio. I can't understand why anyone who has ridden truly epic rides would call this epic -- but it is certainly good, especially since it's tucked into Florida flat lands.
I just noticed that this somehow got rated as number 9 in the US. That's a complete joke. I've been riding all around the US, and I live in Ohio. This is a nice little place, but it wouldn't even be number 9 in Ohio (and there is only one in Ohio that should be in the top 50). DO NOT drive hundreds of miles to come here.
Thanks to the people who made it!
* Review edited 1/13/2012
Similar Trail: Santos
* Review edited 1/13/2012
Similar Trail: Santos
Review: My Favorite trail in Florida. Great trails with big hills for Florida. I can ride here all day and not get bored.
Similar Trail: markham, Santos
Similar Trail: markham, Santos
Review: swampclub.org's description was totally accurate. It highly entertains every single level of rider. My 8 year old loved the Greens. My 9 year old loved the Blues, was challenged big time by the Diamonds, and we could do mostly nothing but walk through the D-Diamonds (only 1 way to find out, right?). (Novice and Intermediate XC riders we are).
I could tell by talking and watching the fast, fluid and sometimes skying locals, that once one gets to know the tracks well, this place is just heaven, for Florida.
Review: Kudos to SWAMP, these trails are some of the best. I have been biking for about 6 months and found the intermediate trails to be very challenging, more so than Santos. I will return soon.
Similar Trail: Santos
Similar Trail: Santos
Review: Fantastic trails that have great levels of skill. Most of the steep drops are short enough that you don't feel like you're going to lose complete control and have uphills immediately after - for an advanced rider, only one or two parts of the trail system are so challenging that you may not be able to do it.
Moonscape and Gatorback are excellent; I also really enjoyed the little double black diamond offshoot loops Frank's Loop (with one corner that you absolutely cannot get wrong unless you like swimming in the swamp) and Shelley's Loop, which managed to break my bike hangar with the biggest drop of any part of the trail network.
Similar Trail: Don Valley Trails, Toronto Rockcliffe Trails, Waterdown, Ontario
Similar Trail: Don Valley Trails, Toronto Rockcliffe Trails, Waterdown, Ontario
Review: A great place to spend the day MTB. There are trails for every skill level so everybody can come and play. The blues are fun and the black diamonds arent all that tough.
Review: awesome trails, well maintained. Well worth the trip from Miami, Fl. My favorite trail the was the North Creek. The roller coaster and moonscape were awesome too but quite challenging. Gator was too difficult for me wish I would have not entered it, walked most of it cause its really rooty uphills and some of the downhills are rocky
and spooked me out. maybe next time
* Review edited 12/5/2011
Similar Trail: Markham park but on steroids. Nice flow to the trails. Cant wait to go back.
* Review edited 12/5/2011
Similar Trail: Markham park but on steroids. Nice flow to the trails. Cant wait to go back.
Review: Thanks to swamp This is a really excellent park for MTB!! nice flow. drove for 4 hours to this park will drive again.
Review: Technical masterpiece. I consider myself an intermediate rider and I have to say that I was able to have fun and feel challeged at the same time. Steep ups and down, specially on Rollercoaster. Had to walk some sections of Roller Coaster, a little bit over my comfort level that one. Some drops throught the park but they are marked beforehand so you have the option to take a chicken run. Nonetheless there are other trails beginner-intermediate that were very fun. Would never thnk you are in Florida. Very well marked and nicely mantained
* Review edited 11/29/2011
Similar Trail: Monagas in Bayamon, PR or Santos in Ocala, FL
* Review edited 11/29/2011
Similar Trail: Monagas in Bayamon, PR or Santos in Ocala, FL
Review: AWESOME again!!! Fat Tire Festival 11/19/11 provided us with (2) days of riding Alifia, (1) day at Balm-Boyette. Alifia's BEST trails: Rollercoaster (Blk) - lots of big bumps; North Creek (Blu) terrific run-outs, with one super cool curving drop-in; Bridges (Blu) - (5) big drops make this one close to Black, but it's a great Blue.
Similar Trail: Santos - "Vortex"
Similar Trail: Santos - "Vortex"
Review: Rode this a few years ago on vacation and loved it. Some of the trails were insane and you can get in over your head real quick. Something for everyone though and I had a blast, it was easy to see why it was named an IMBA Epic.
Review: Trail was nice, some steep hills. Must have rained before we pulled in, trail was slippery in some sections. Had alot of fun though. Glad we checked it out. Spent all day riding almost every trail we could.
Review: This park has something for everyone, from multi-use trails, no helmit required, beginner, intermediate, advanced and suicidal. Moonscape and Gator back are suicidal and should only be attempted by serious experienced riders with bikes up for the challenge. I skipped Gatorback after talking to locals, moonscape is incredible, but incredibly difficult climbs and drops, I had to walk a lot of them. Roller Coaster is incredible fun, with enough to challenge even the most seasoned riders, I busted my dirt2 front shock on one of the downhills ! Bridges is also incredible with huge up and downs but nothing too crazy. Both rollercoaster and bridges are for the most part fast and flowy with some serious drops and climbs, but nothing I couldn't handle. For sheer fun, Northcreek can't be beat, it reminded me of the Tsali trails in North Carolina, if someone dropped you there, you wouldn't know you are in Florida, well except for the heat and humidity. On the 2nd day, I got stung by bumblebees, my hand is swollen twice its normal size, got heat exhaustion with vomiting and diarea. If you visit this park in the summer months be warned, the heat and humidity is extreme, even my expensive cycling jersey couldn't wick away the sweat.
* Review edited 8/29/2011
Similar Trail: Oleta River State Park (rollercoaster, bridges), Markham Park (Moonscape, Gatorback), Tsali (North Creek)
* Review edited 8/29/2011
Similar Trail: Oleta River State Park (rollercoaster, bridges), Markham Park (Moonscape, Gatorback), Tsali (North Creek)
Review: Wow, this place has some way crazier stuff than I expected to be in Florida. The harder trails were very difficult and were a rough technical challenge. There was quite a bit of quick up-and-down sections that were really steep. Some parts were also VERY rooty. But there are also some trails that are really easy and flat. Another thing that is great about the trail system is that there are many spots along the trails where you can choose to ride a harder or easier section of the different trails. So this system of trails offers something for everyone. My favorite trail that I rode here is definitely Rollercoaster. I highly recommend this one because it lives up to its name.
Similar Trail: Santos in Ocala, FL
Similar Trail: Santos in Ocala, FL
Review: We rode these trails about 10 months ago, and LOVED them. a 'good' Tiring ~12 miles. We can't wait for the Fat Tire Festival in Nov.!!
Similar Trail: VORTEX at Santos, Ocala, FL
Similar Trail: VORTEX at Santos, Ocala, FL
Review: Just got back from Alafia river state park and really enjoyed a great mountain bike park. The SWAMP club that maintains most of the tracks in this area do a fantastic job, my wife and i enjoyed the numerous trails, and the creature comforts of the trail head. If you mountain bike in FL this is a must ride. Can say enough of the help i got from local riders including gregorio who after i snapped my front fork loaded me and my bike up and installed his old fork on my bike allowing me to enjoy Alafia, and not cut my riding vacation short.* Review edited 7/8/2011
* Review edited 7/8/2011
Similar Trail: Carter road and balm boyette
* Review edited 7/8/2011
Similar Trail: Carter road and balm boyette
Review: The last time I rode this trail I broke my finger, but I was having so much fun I kept on riding for two hours! This is some of the most technical and well planned trails south of the Mason Dixon. There is something for everyone here, but the advanced trails are the crown jewel, particularly Moonscape, Roller Coaster, and Gatorback (which I have seen a gator ON the trail, fyi). It is quite a hike for me to drive to Alafia, but everytime I go I ride the same trails for hours and hours...it never gets tiring, and there are all these little loops, rocks, roots, etc.. that are fun WIPs (works in progress, i.e. you don't get them right the first time) that challenge even the most seasoned riders. This trail is one of a kind, a true IMBA epic trail. Some have complained that it is not 'as good' as some trails in Colorado or Moab...but I bet you can't ride those in February in shorts and run into a gator rubbing up against a palm...then go to the beach after 35 miles of riding??? I'm just sayin'....if you are EVER in the Tampa/Brandon area, DON'T miss your chance to ride this trail as well as Boyette (across the street). AJ's rents bikes, as do several shops in Tampa.
Review: It was a week after a race, 4/11, and the trails were a mess as far as being marked. I'd go into a advanced trail and come another entrance. Roller Coaster and Moon-something were a mess with tape and no markings. It was my second time there and won't be discouraged, even though i shredded a XTR Shadow backtracking on Roller Coaster. Clean it up please!!! It's not a bunny trail, so make it safe!
Similar Trail: Razorback
Similar Trail: Razorback
Review: this trail system is the jewel of the SWAMP Mountain bike club in Tampa Florida. It offers something for every rider skill level with a "Easy" loop, great "Blue" intermediate trails, and plenty of Black and Double Black advanced stuff. You wont believe you are in Florida!
Similar Trail: Santos trail system in Ocala Balm-Boyette Scrub preserve
Similar Trail: Santos trail system in Ocala Balm-Boyette Scrub preserve
Review: Awesome ride. condensed. no long travel. alotta fun. Very good ride for florida
Review: This is one of the destination points of Florida mountain biking. tons of neat riding here from beginner to expert! the trails are well maintained and are really nice. Lots of technical Florida riding
Review: One of my all time favorite trails. this trail is perfect for cyclists of all levels. There are miles upon miles of fun single track, from easy pine flats to agrressive rocky uphill technical challenges.
Similar Trail: Santos in ocala
Similar Trail: Santos in ocala
Review: The absolute the best in Florida! Amazing terrain and housekeeping! Variety of challenges for all levels and just an awesome place. An absolute jewel!!!
Review: Great variety and park amenities. Good for beginner to expert. Top trail in FL along with Santos.
Review: Alafia River State Park is a great trail system for everyone from beginners to expert riders. The park has nice facilities with pavilions, restrooms, shower, and a bike wash. Beginners looking to gain skills should look into riding North Creek. Intermediate riders will love Bridges and Roller Coaster. Advanced riders looking for steep climbs and descents with switchbacks need to check out Gatorback and Moonscape. There are also a lot of little off shoot trails like Rabbit Ears that are short fast paced trails through the woods with some technical obstacles. The trails are not as smooth or fast rolling as Boyette, but offer more technical terrain. Most trails are one-way singletrack. I really enjoy this trail.
* Review edited 9/11/2009
Similar Trail: Loyce-Harpe (Carter Road) and Balm Boyette
* Review edited 9/11/2009
Similar Trail: Loyce-Harpe (Carter Road) and Balm Boyette
Review: Alafia River State Park is a network of trails.....easy trails consist of River Loop & Sand Pine, Intermediate Trails consist of Bridges, North Creek & Rock Garden, Difficult Trails consist of Rabbit Ears & Roller Coaster, Very Difficult Trails consist of Gatorback & Moonscape. Today the heat index was over 105 degrees and we were out there on Gatorback, Bridges, North Creek (twice rode), Roller Coaster & Rabbit Ears.......had a blast today!
Similar Trail: Loyce E. Harpe Park on Carter Road in Lakeland, FL.
Similar Trail: Loyce E. Harpe Park on Carter Road in Lakeland, FL.
Review: I rode the Alafia Green River trail & Alafia Rock Garden trail. Not too difficult to ride, but a lot of fun......started at 6pm and ran out of daylight.
* Review edited 6/3/2009
Similar Trail: Carter Road-Loyce E. Harpe Park in Lakeland, Florida
* Review edited 6/3/2009
Similar Trail: Carter Road-Loyce E. Harpe Park in Lakeland, Florida
Review: Loved it. Road it today and it was awesome. Nice park Something for everyone. If you miss this you miss some of the best we have in Florida.
Similar Trail: Markham
Similar Trail: Markham
Review: Alafia is an excellent trail system well desrving of its EPIC status. Great trails with alot of twists, turns, climbs, and descents. Pretty scenery through palm frond "forests", swamp land, hills, and ridgelines. The roots can be challenging/annoying at times but are rideable. North Creek and Rollercoaster are my favorites with Bridges and Gatorback close behind. Rabbit Ears are three short loops but worth the ride. Moonscape is cool and offers what is probably the most difficult terrain in the park. I ride a hardtail and was able to ride everything I came to. There are hundreds of pics posted of the trails and as usual they hardly do it justice. You just have to go check them out for yourself.....
The Park is nice and has excellent facilities including bathrooms with full electric and plumbing, a bike wash, and vending machines for after ride snack. There are several picnic benches and a playground for kids.
* Review edited 4/18/2009
Similar Trail: Balm Boyette Scrub Preserve
* Review edited 4/18/2009
Similar Trail: Balm Boyette Scrub Preserve
Review: Awesome trails. Swamp Club does a good job building and maintaining these trails. Something for everyone.
Similar Trail: Carter, Boyette, & Santos.
Similar Trail: Carter, Boyette, & Santos.
Review: Good trail. Lots of ups and downs and fun stuff like that. I thought the trail was a little weathered and there were a lot of things on some trails that made the running not too smooth (ie roots rocks sand)... I rode it a while ago in january so I hope it got cleaned up because then it would be sweet! I like the citrus trees around too. Be careful with directions! Its not too hard to find too, but i got lost for a minute.
* Review edited 2/26/2009
* Review edited 2/26/2009
Review: I ride a lot in Texas and visited the Tampa area recently. I had an unexpected surprise with Alafia. I did not expect to find such a fine trail in Florida. I for one did not associate Florida with mountain biking, but I do now. Hats off to SWAMP for a job well done.
* Review edited 2/9/2009
* Review edited 2/9/2009
Review: I ride Alafia twice a week and still have not gotten tired of it. It is also well worth the trip if your not a local. The parking lot is never far away which helps when you bike breaks down. The trails are maintained by the local mtb club. Not a lot of miles here but you can string several trails together and have a good half day trip. I'm so thankful we have a great trail like this right in my own back yard! You won't think your in Florida.
Similar Trail: Santos, Boyette, Carter rd
Similar Trail: Santos, Boyette, Carter rd
Review: Rode their this weekend and it is still the #1 MTB park in FL alongside Santos. Awesome ride by all standards and just cannot get enough of this MTB park.
Similar Trail: Santos, Balm Boyette, Gran Canyon, Carter
Similar Trail: Santos, Balm Boyette, Gran Canyon, Carter
Review: This IMBA MTB trail network rocks! Definately a very epic ride here, no matter which trail you ride. I go here at least four times or better a year, and would every weekend but I live over on the East Coast. Awesome drops, ups & downs, jumps, down hill, bridges, and a lot of speed. Pretty much by all means something for everyone! I love it here and my favorite trails are "Rabbit Ears", "North Creek", and "Rollercoaster". The last couple times I was there, "Gatorback" was closed.
Similar Trail: Too many to post, but Alafia & Santos is the bomb! If in Palm Bay, FL, try the Shoreline "Fruit Tree Trail",
Similar Trail: Too many to post, but Alafia & Santos is the bomb! If in Palm Bay, FL, try the Shoreline "Fruit Tree Trail",
Review: Very nicely laid out with some fun riding. This was my first time out on a mountain bike on something other than pavement, so some of the crazier stuff was not on my agenda. Still, the facilities and park layout were excellent, thanks to SWAMP.
Similar Trail: Santos
Similar Trail: Santos
Review: Alafia River State Park # 1 in Florida
Similar Trail: Markham Park
Similar Trail: Markham Park
Review: Finally finished the place, uhg, exhausted. Gatorback is my fav, with brides and rollercoaster 2nd. Moonscape is a freakin ball buster with some insane drops and climbs and very easy to get lost. Most of river was closed due to mud and swamp getting a little too high from the recent rain. The variety here is amazing, the riders great, and the workout intense. Bring water if you can, the trails run deep and there are no fountains, even the main fountains at the trail head were out...Highly recommend a full suspension bike, unless you like your balls pushed in 1/2 a foot.
Similar Trail: Morris Creek
Similar Trail: Morris Creek
Review: This place rocks. It is far enough away from everything else it is rarely crowded. Great riding the different style loops, tracks were all in good shape, great scenery around what is left of the river. The roots do get a little tough with a solid framed bike (trek 950) but nothing I couldn't handle. haven't gotten to the technical parts yet, going back to do that soon. Did about 5-10 miles and was completely exhausted. Probably should be wearing protection when doing anything tougher than novice, there were definitely some hairy parts.* Review edited 2/19/2008
* Review edited 2/19/2008
Similar Trail: Tampa and central Florida tracks
* Review edited 2/19/2008
Similar Trail: Tampa and central Florida tracks
Review: I rode this trail yesterday. After Razorback closed, this has been the greatest park in Florida. North Creek trail has a new advanced extension. All the other trails are great and in good condition.
Similar Trail: Markham park
Similar Trail: Markham park
Review: Absolutely everything I expected and more. Great selection of trails from beginner to highly skilled. Great facilities and an overall beautiful place. Very polite riders (even the hardcore dudes) and even sat and watched 2 unicycle riders (that's right, I said unicycle... uno wheelo!) riding one of the intermediate trails and then headed for the double black diamond trails. I hope they made it out safely.
I would suggest the Sand Pine trail over the River Loop for beginners. The River Loop is heavily rooted and can turn into an unenjoyable ride after 3 miles of such bumpy terrain.
Beware: At the end of The Bridges trail, which is intermediate, there is a small sign that gives two options: easier way and more difficult. Well, the more difficult way is actually a short trail rated black diamond.
I'm an intermediate rider and just about pee peed my shorts on that thing. Good thing for padded shorts.
Anyway, this place is fantastic and I can't wait to go back when I've got more skills and better nerves because I'd like to see the advanced trails without getting thrown from my saddle too many times.
I still can't believe those 2 unicycle dudes! Siiiiiiiick!
Similar Trail: None that I've seen yet.
Similar Trail: None that I've seen yet.
Review: A lot of fun. Wish I could get out there to ride it more often. Its definitely worth the drive.
Review: This park offers some of the most challenging off-road bicycling trails in Florida. Once the site of a phosphate mine, the reclaimed land has unique topography that offers some of the most radical elevation changes in Florida.
Similar Trail: Razorback,Markham,Santos
Similar Trail: Razorback,Markham,Santos
Review: Growing up in FL and spending alot of time in South Florida this is probably better park in the area. Very happy I moved out of S FL and now have this in my back yard. Several trails which are very close to the parking area which makes its nice and enjoyable for families & groups of varying skill leveles. This park has something for everyone from the most skilled riders to the beginners.
Similar Trail: Santos
Similar Trail: Santos
Review: I just finish the last sections, Gatorback, A couple of short advanced loops off rock garden, Finally finishing off at Sand Pine... Gatorback is beautiful and brutal! The 2 advanced sections off Rock Garden were perfect for my sub-superhuman abilitys, Sand Pine was fun! The temp on the trail was 93 F. and very humid, Moving quickly and effortlessly down Sand Pine made for a great cool down.
- Sand Pine sent me home with 2 bruised shoulders from ricocheting off trees in a single track fast section that opens into a cluster of 6" diameter pines with 4 options to get through... I was moving fast, tired and didn't decide my line fast enough... wasn't pretty.
Had a great time!
Similar Trail: Tsali, Thompson loop - Short but fun
Similar Trail: Tsali, Thompson loop - Short but fun
Review: this place is great rode there the other day with swamp club had a blast they are some great people to ride with. North Creek is one of the best flowing trails in the park or in centerl fl. love this place
Similar Trail: Carter road Balm Boyette
Similar Trail: Carter road Balm Boyette
Review: This trail rocks! I ride here once a week and will continue to drive for 40 minutes every week to ride here. Very good flow to the more advanced trails.
Similar Trail: SANTOS is great but they are so different from each other.
Similar Trail: SANTOS is great but they are so different from each other.
Review: I agree w/ the last two entries. This is a great trail & the Swamp club does a nice job of maintaining this trail system. This park has something for every riding level. Something that other parks cannot boast. This IS worth the drive!
Similar Trail: The T.O.E.
Similar Trail: The T.O.E.
Review: After months at Oleta and Markham this seemed easy and fast. Swamp Club keeps it real nice maintained with a lot less roots and rocks than So Fl trails. Definitely a reccomend for this one.
Similar Trail: Balm Boyette
Similar Trail: Balm Boyette
Review: One of the Best in Florida....I love it ! This trail has a good mix...the most difficult trails are Gatorback (just reopened as of 02/02/07) and Moonscape. My favorites are Roller Coaster, Bridges and the Advanced portion of Rock Garden. Also North Creek is my Warm up Trail. I don't really care much for Sand Pine or the beginner portion of Rock Garden. I do think this park is totally beautiful and the Swamp Club does a great job maintaining the trails. * Review edited 2/19/2007
* Review edited 2/19/2007
Similar Trail: Carter Rd and Oleta
* Review edited 2/19/2007
Similar Trail: Carter Rd and Oleta
Review: you will find trail for yourself in Alafia. my fave was moonscape and rollercoaster and that brand new trail they just finished building that i forgot the name. Sand Pine trail is really smooth and fast switchback. i hit 12 to 14mph on it. trails are somewhat easy to find and well marked. i got bored a little at the rock garden and river. i had to walk down some of those double diamond drops since my skill level and my hardtail were not up that level yet. my hat off to people that build Alafia trails. really great job.
Similar Trail: santos, razorback
Similar Trail: santos, razorback
Review: I came here last weekend on the 20th. Good news everyone..they opened up a new trail! It is about 3 miles long and it is a sweet singletrack with a couple of bridges. Some trails are closed due to the raining season.
Review: I was there May 6th and rode most of the loops. The club down there definitely keeps on top of the trails, well maintained and marked in all but a few places. Some type of endurance event was going on so it was pretty crowded. Several spots were too sandy, but it would be a difficult task to haul something to pack some of these areas. Rode the 2 easy loops, 2 intermediate loops, then rollercoaster and moonscape (considered difficult and more difficult repectively). I'm far from an expert and don't agree completely with the difficulty ratings of these trails. I found the trails marked difficult to be more enjoyable than the others, and I would think most any intermediate rider would get through rollercoaster fine. The intermediate trails are a root fest, which got annoying after some time. I'll be heading out on the first saturday of the month to help these guys with maintaining these trails, really appreciate the hard work from clubs like SWAMP.
Similar Trail: Carter road has similar difficult portions, Croom has similar (but better) easy trails.
Similar Trail: Carter road has similar difficult portions, Croom has similar (but better) easy trails.
Review: I was here today and the trail is in great condition. It was very dry enough. There were plenty of riders. I wish to invite all mountain bikers to come to ride one of the best trails in Florida.
Review: Best for all riding levels.
Similar Trail: Razorback in Ocala, FL
Similar Trail: Razorback in Ocala, FL
Review: Rode it last weekend, it was partially dry, all of it was open, however Moonscape was slippery so watch out !
Similar Trail: Carter rd, Razorback,santos
Similar Trail: Carter rd, Razorback,santos
Review: Parts of the trails were closed during the summer, but all is open now.
Review: WOW! Some of the best trails for all levels I've ever ridden - anywhere. Challenging singletrack, easy double track and a healthy mix of intermediate level all add up to a great time. Facilities are also first class. Check out www.outdoortravels.com for more information, photos, maps, etc.
Similar Trail: Santos, Reddick/Razorback
Similar Trail: Santos, Reddick/Razorback
Recommendations
Balm Boyette Scrub Preserve (100%)Loyce E. Harpe Park (carter Road) (76%)
Santos (76%)
Markham Park (52%)
Oleta State Park (41%)
Tags
alafia alafia river state park mountain (ta brandon bridges Goodyy imba epic rooty sandy singletracks treesFlorida Outdoor Lists
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Blue Spruce Ventures LLC | Decatur, GA
singletracks.com is yet another slick Review App
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Rollercoaster and Moonstone were easy to follow with a good level of challenge. These two are great trails.
The trailhead facilities are top notch...clean restrooms, shelters with picnic tables, paved parking lot, bike wash station, and more. The trailhead was so nice I questioned if I parked in correct location in the park. I give the trailhead an A plus.
Trails vary from swoopy and flowing to rooty and rough. There are trails for all skill levels. There are some sandy areas, but it was not too loose when I was there. There are some steep up&downs, but short enough to be rideable. There are signs that say "Extremely Difficult Trail". These sections are very fun, but only moderately challenging. "Extremely Difficult" might be stronger wording than necessary. "Difficult Trail" would be a more accurate description in my opinion. Again, these sections were very fun.
I give this trail network a thumbs up. I will definately ride Alafia again during my next visit to Florida.