Trail is
Avg Rating:   |
81 trail reviews |
Difficulty:  - Intermediate |
|
| Length: 60 miles | Global Rank: #6 |
| Tread: Singletrack | Configuration: Network |
| Ridden: 334 | Wishlist: 155 |
| 28 trail check-ins |
Climb // Descend +3,800 // -3,300 feet |
| Average Speed: 7.1 mph | Average Time: 2hr 9min |
Directions
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Description
81,290 acres of pure off-road riding bliss. Santos is the largest and best known mountain biking park in the Ocala, Florida area. Santos official designation is Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway.Greenwa**tretch many miles throughout the state of Florida.The greenway was born out of the failed Cross Florida Barge Canal which was terminated in the late 60s. Santos is named for the small town where the main trailhead is located. Standard trail markings are in place here - yellow trails ae beginner, blue intermediate and red markings for advanced. The majority of advanced riding is located around two abandonded mining pits. Trails are all one way with arrows up indicating the trail is straight ahead and down arrows meaning "do not enter". Trails range from flat and rolling to rocky and steep. The large network of trails can make it easy for the unintiated to get lost. Make sure to have a map and compass with you. Locals are always happy to help out with directions. The trail network is so extensive that you can spend a couple of days here and never tire of riding the evergrowing miles of singletrack.
Balm Boyette Scrub Preserve (71%)
Loyce E. Harpe Park (carter Road) (50%)
Oleta State Park (43%)
Markham Park (43%)
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Description
81,290 acres of pure off-road riding bliss. Santos is the largest and best known mountain biking park in the Ocala, Florida area. Santos official designation is Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway.Greenwa**tretch many miles throughout the state of Florida.The greenway was born out of the failed Cross Florida Barge Canal which was terminated in the late 60s. Santos is named for the small town where the main trailhead is located. Standard trail markings are in place here - yellow trails ae beginner, blue intermediate and red markings for advanced. The majority of advanced riding is located around two abandonded mining pits. Trails are all one way with arrows up indicating the trail is straight ahead and down arrows meaning "do not enter". Trails range from flat and rolling to rocky and steep. The large network of trails can make it easy for the unintiated to get lost. Make sure to have a map and compass with you. Locals are always happy to help out with directions. The trail network is so extensive that you can spend a couple of days here and never tire of riding the evergrowing miles of singletrack.
added by www.OutdoorTravels.com_- 
on August 16, 2004
on August 16, 2004Mountain Bike Trails in the Santos Trail System
- Anthill (
- Expert ) - Beyond (
- Beginner ) - Bunny ( - Intermediate )
- Canal Diggings ( - Intermediate )
- Canopy ( - Intermediate )
- Christmas Section ( - Beginner )
- Cow Bone ( - Intermediate )
- Dog Bone ( - Beginner )
- Dr Ruth ( - Intermediate )
- Ern N Burn ( - Intermediate )
- Imba Red (
- Advanced ) - John Brown ( - Advanced )
- Nayles Trail ( - Intermediate )
- Pine Tree Loop ( - Beginner )
- Rattlesnake Ridge ( - Advanced )
- Sinkhole ( - Advanced )
- Twister ( - Intermediate )
Trail Reviews [Add a review]
Review: Drove nearly 3 hours to finally try it out and was just "ok," for my wife and I. The "medium" tracks could be relabeled as "easy" and the "harder" ones were a lot of rocks and roots (which are fine, if that's what you prefer). We did enjoy watching a young rider do a successful launch and land in the "freestyle" area. My wife did have fun with the kids on the "bump" track by the parking lot. We will stay with Alafia, Balm Boyette and Alva for riding closer to home.
Similar Trail: Alafia, Balm Boyette
Similar Trail: Alafia, Balm Boyette
Review: Love santos I ride 3 times a week there great trails
Review: Rode the epic good mix of trails and difficulties hard pack very little sand good signage along trails would definatly recomend these trails.
Review: This is an awesome trail that truly has something for everyone. Most of the yellows and blues are very easy (beginner/intermediate respectively). I rode with my girl (she's a beginner)and she had a blast because there were very few obstacles that she had to hike on blues and yellows. The Reds though, watch out because they are technical, will offer some great pumps and have some great little descents. Best part is you can ride double track on most trails, seems like a different trail riding in a different direction.
Review: Just rode here for the first time last weekend. Well worth the trip. The parts carved into the old quarry , "the vortex section", are some of the best trails I've ridden. If you go here, try to allow yourself a few days to soak it all in.
Review: Thank goodness the in-laws retired here. This is tremendous fun. And, lots of places to practice and learn skills. You don't have to ride off cliffs to have a good time!
Review: My introduction to MTB. Begining of summer2012. Did in hrd tail, so spent most of the time standing. Nice n quick tech/elevat/changes. Surprisingly hrd packed w/lots of limestone for FL. Best to go in cooler months, or early mornings. Had a blast n I'm hooked after many yrs ago from BMX n MX.
Review: I will be going Jan 2013 to MTB and to bmx. Hope it will be fun.
Review: I love santos! Some of the best riding in FL. We came from south GA to ride for the weekend. We stayed at the santos trailhead campground, which is very nice and right at the trails. Overall the trails where in great shape. We like the more technical trails which theres plenty of here. But there are also plenty of nice flowy trails too. The only thing that was kind of dissapointing was the vortex freeride area. We had brought our freeride bikes to try some of the features there and it wasnt in the best shape. Only a few features where kept up the rest were overgrown and washed out which made them pretty sketchy. But we talked to a local freerider there and he said soon their getting some more funding to keep it up better, so hopefully the next time itll be better. Overall a great trail system!
Review: Rode here this past Sunday 09-16-12 and the experience was way better then my first since I broke 5 ribs on my 2nd attempt on the 10' drop off!! These trails are a load of fun for all leveled riders. Can't wait to go back again!!
Review: Still the best place to mountain bike in Florida. The red trails that wrap around the Vortex are challenging, but not for the faint of heart. Cowbone and Twister are fun blue trails for first timers. I thought the trails were in great shape overall.
Review: Miles and Miles of singletrack that will take you clear across I-75 (west) and almost into Citrus County. I have ridden Santos two times now and no matter what kind of rig you are on you will have fun!!!! Love the technical Red IMBA loop around Vortex (great practice for western mountain riding) as well as the difficult steps/drops of Sinkhole and Rattlesnake Ridge. Never thought mountain biking could be this good in FL (as an avid CO MTB'er) - must visit if youare in the area. All of the tecnical trails/features can be avoided if so desired, but the beginner/intermediate trails can contain areas of sugar sand (especially further west along the Greenway).
Similar Trail: Brooksville, Balm Boyette, Alafaya
Similar Trail: Brooksville, Balm Boyette, Alafaya
Review: MOSQUITOES! Bring bugspray during the "wet months"! I rode the non-freeride parts of system trail (unfortunately) with the GF and had a good time aside from the mosquitoes, which effectively prevented us from stopping.
The yellow trails are very, very easy. I'd recommend taking blues/reds when possible for some excitement. Twister, a blue which has a series of ~10ft mounds, was my favorite. I'll be back to hit the freeride section!
Review: I love this place i do the epic ride all the time about 35 mile loop there something for everyone here a must ride
Review: Just great fun! I can't believe some of the arial stuff they have set up- those guys are nuts! Rattlesnake ridge is one of my favorites- a great workout with plenty of technical challenges!
Similar Trail: Alafia River, Mala Campra
Similar Trail: Alafia River, Mala Campra
Review: I only had a short time to ride here. I was wiped out from 21 hours of driving, and the wife wanted to move on to Orlando to see her friend. I cannot wait to go back, next time I am dropping the wife in Orlando and going back for a day or two. I had a hard time keeping my eyes on the trail, because there were so many critters rustling around and I kept looking to see what they were. A lizard lover's paradise.
Similar Trail: Brownsville Monte Bella park for lizards.
Similar Trail: Brownsville Monte Bella park for lizards.
Review: I wasn't sure is this really EPIC trail until I rode Vortex section and John Brown trail. These two are so worth of riding and made me wanting to come back again.
Very nice trail system with trails for everyone with any skill level. Pictures doesn't show the real beauty of the terrain. It's must ride for every mountain biker.
Review: Santos has something for everbody! I drive about an hour and a half to get there and wish I lived closer. One of the best networks I've ridden in Florida fo sho!
Review: First time at Santos this past weekend, everyone tells me I have to go! so i finally got enough time to make the trip (100 miles). The most striking thing about it,coming from the coast and not native to Florida, is that this is all pine forest and very rocky. Its mostly flat with small hills so trail ratings are based on how rocky the trails are, and a little bit on steepness and how narrow. Let's put it this way, I road the IMBA red and didn't notice it was an expert trail until I finished. I would put each level trail rating one notch lower than typical trails I"ve ridden. I am by no means an expert, having only started mountain biking last fall. I didn't find anything here that would stop an intermediate rider except some of the drops in the Vortex. I did 44 miles and found it all doable at my level, including all the reds I rode. I'm not sure it was worth the trip, this first time for sure, to see what the talk is about but I doubt I would go back when there are similar trails, though shorter length, around my home area.
Update to this to add that the description above says all trails are one way...not true at all. Most of trails I rode were two way and some folks ride very fast..keep an eye out for riders coming towards you!
* Review edited 5/6/2012
Similar Trail: Graham Swamp, Mala Compra
* Review edited 5/6/2012
Similar Trail: Graham Swamp, Mala Compra
Review: This place was the boom I did the hole 26 miles in 3hrs and 30min at 8mph average speed
Review: This place is so fun. Its the best flat trail system I have ever been on. I rode this place three days in a row when I visited my parents in the Villages Florida. First time riders up to expert riders will have a good time here. Something for everyone.
Review: Great trail system and something for everyone. Most of it obviously doesn't have much elevation change which made for a nice long epic day mileage wise. The Vortex area was just crazy for those of you who ride some of those dropoffs! I did prefer Alafia on the trip but this was a lot of fun.
* Review edited 4/23/2012
* Review edited 4/23/2012
Review: This place is my home away from home! Ive been biking for 4 years now and always come here. It has close to 85 miles total! There r different sections that go way out north but i ride in the santos and vortex section. This place has beginner trails, intermediate, and expert trails. Go try it you will love it and come back to ride it again! Try the pump tracks in vortex and santos. They just got redone.
Review: you have to ride here. something for everyone. vortex on the bmx is all i ride
Review: One of the best trails I've mountain biked on. Loved every minute, trails range from beginner-advanced, very well marked and mantained. If you want to practice endurance, this is a good one. Had over 45 miles on my ride there! I consider myself an intermediate rider and I was able to do all the trails except one or two sections in John Brown. Fun stuff! Would move to Ocala to be close to this one!
Similar Trail: North Park , PA Balm Boyette, FL
Similar Trail: North Park , PA Balm Boyette, FL
Review: Santos is a great trail system, if a bit overrated. I wouldn't rank it in the top 25 in the nation. It has a lot of options with trails ranging from ridiculously easy to really technical hard stuff. My favorites here are IMBA Red, Sinkhole and John Brown, although John Brown can be a bit too technical for me to clear everything, especially when the slick mud is on the rocks n' roots and makes you spin out and lose all momentum. Dr. Ruth is good too, but some of the blues are almost too easy compared to other intermediate trails i've ridden in Florida. I like Alafia and Balm-boyette better for flow and fun in Florida, with Balm-boyette taking the trophy for my favorite ride in the state (that's still open). Overall, the additional amenities like a campground, tons of miles, and the skills area are a big plus to make Santos a national Epic destination, however. You will have fun, but there are tons of other trail systems out there that should rival Santos Epic status.
Edit. . . If you consider the Ross Prarie area trails as part of santos, and they keep connecting the two campgrounds throughout the greenway with similar trails. . . Then this system will reach truly "epic" status. Trails like ern 'n burn and nayl's going all the way up to santos would give you about 50 miles (one way) of Florida mtb fun.
* Review edited 12/30/2011
Similar Trail: Balm-boyette, Alafia, Chicopee GA
* Review edited 12/30/2011
Similar Trail: Balm-boyette, Alafia, Chicopee GA
Review: First trip to Santos Today. I rode all the Blue (Intermediate) trails (Twister, Cow Bone, Dr. Ruth, Bunny, Marshmallow, Speedway and Canopy) and all the Red (Advanced) trails (Vortex aka IMBA Red, Sinkhole, Rattlensake Ridge, Anthill, John Brown and Magic Mountain) in the Santos and Vortex sections. Some twice. I also rode some of the Yellow trails (mostly to get to the Blue and Red trails), rode both pump tracks, did a couple of drops and some tabletop dirt jumps. All told I rode more than 25 miles and really tested my skills.
I enjoyed the Blue trails the most: fast and flowy with lots of nice bermed corners, switchbacks and tech in the form of rock gardens and roots. I'm an intermediate rider, and I handled all the blues without problem, including the two most difficult blues, Dr. Ruth and Cowbone. Twister was my favorite--long, fast and lots of banked corners.
The only Red trail I completed without eating sh*t was Sinkhole. Some of the stuff on the Red trails is very, very difficult for someone at my level--often with very serious consequences for failure. Some of the climbs up rocks are just silly, and there are quite a few big, fast descents on rock with lots of loose rock and sharp corners. I'm pretty shredded right now, but glad I tried them all.
I thought the blues were too easy, and the reds (for the most part) were a little beyond my abilities. I was hoping for more trails with big, fast dirt downhills and uphills, ala Chuck Lennon. Still this place is amazing, and I'll be back. I've got a lot of work to do before I can ride all the reds.
* Review edited 10/26/2011
* Review edited 10/26/2011
Review: This trail should not be in the top 500. I lived in ocala for 5 years and rode this trail 20-30 times. There are some ridiculous drops in what appears to be an old quarry and a terrain park. Other than that the 100 degree days and enormous banana spiders pretty much ruin the average single track and poorly designed trails. If you live in Florida give it a try but I would not travel here. There are too many other great trails around the country
Review: I cant say much more than what has already been said 100 times over. Santos is a great park that has something for everyone, even the begginer. If you ever had the desire to throw yourself off a cliff...then this is your destination! plenty of big drops in excess of 20' here. If you like the technical stuff...then come on on out, plent of that too. If your just into pedalling all day on a flowing single track, then this is your place too..great blue rated trails that have the best flow and super great surface. I will be back many times to come. Be sure to visting the guys at the Santos Trail Head Bike Shop, they will treat you right.* Review edited 8/1/2011
* Review edited 8/1/2011
Similar Trail: Alafia
* Review edited 8/1/2011
Similar Trail: Alafia
Review: This a great trail system. I had a lot of fun at this place. It doesn't seem to be as well known as Alafia, but it is easily as good, if not better in my opinion. Like Alafia, it has some pretty crazy stuff, but also some trails that even beginners could ride. I absolutely loved Twister. I rode a few of the red (advanced) trails, but I had the most fun on Twister (intermediate). This trail was a winding, quick-paced, weave through the forest, which also had some fun hills, and even a few crazy steep, approximately 10-foot high mounds back-to-back, which made it like a rollercoaster section.
I definitely want to visit this place again. Although next time I plan to have a printed-out map. That was the only draw back was that I got lost a few times, because there were no brochure style maps that you could grab at the trailhead sign. But that's what you get when you don't have to pay to ride.
Similar Trail: Alafia
Similar Trail: Alafia
Review: Went to Santos for the first time. We have only been riding blue and mild reds for a little bit. Blues where great and the red by the vortex, that we walked kicked our @$$. we will definitely vacation there again.
Similar Trail: Alafia
Similar Trail: Alafia
Review: First of all, @ clickner: I have seen other trail reviews from you and you always poo poo them with one star no matter how awesome they may be..what gives?? Forget the 'global ranking', that means nothing. I have ridden the 'top ten' and they are all great but we all have our own idea of what a great trail system is. Though Santos is 2 hours from my house, I ride it at once a month because it is, simply put, one of the the best trails in the country. The 'red' trail systems are bad @$$ and the blues are a great warm up. In fact, if I had one suggestion to OMBA (thanks for the great trails btw) would be to make the blues a bit more challenging than they are now...many of them are simply yellow trails. I don't need to reiterate some of the great reviews below, but I will say that you can ride a solid 15 miles on some of the most technical riding you can find, and without the work of a whole lot of climbing. IF you can ride all of these trails without walking a bit, then you truly are an expert. But there is something for everyone, and if you ride ALL 60 Epic miles in one day, I promise you that you will get a great workout. BTW, rode this yesterday, and some trails are sandy in spots, and will be until we get more rain. Thanks again OMBA... I will miss this trail when I move to Colorado
Review: So you are telling me that this trail is #48th and Telegraph Trail System in Durango CO is in the 400s? There is something wrong with this system.
Review: Santos is arguably one of the best trail systems on the east coast. Trails are superbly built/maintained and have much to offer whether you're either a beginner, the weekend warrior or an expert. Trail markings leave a little to be desired though so expect to do some back tracking your first visit.
* Review edited 2/26/2012
* Review edited 2/26/2012
Review: Santos is a mountain bike destination. There is something for everyone here. Only one thing to add to all the previous reviews. New trail is being added west of SW CR 484, This is west of the 49th St TH.
Review: Trail was very well maintained which really surprised me. My buddy and I cut through most of the single track to get to the vortex section and then proceeded to spend the rest of the day hitting the jumps. Again I was taken back by just how well the park was upkept and clean. There were picnic tables and trashcans which im sure helped in keeping the park green.
Probably the most fun Ive had at a mountain bike park. Although the signle track at Alafia was a little more challenging.
Similar Trail: Alafia State Park
Similar Trail: Alafia State Park
Review: Whether you are a begginer or an expert, if you can't find something to enjoy on this trail then it might be a good idea to find a new hobby. This is one of the best trails on the east coast and has something to offer for everybody. There are miles and miles of twisty flowing singletrack that make this the ultimate Florida MTB destination. Each trail is well maintained and marked according to difficulty. Highly recommended.
* Review edited 3/29/2011
Similar Trail: Alafia River State Mountain Bike Park
* Review edited 3/29/2011
Similar Trail: Alafia River State Mountain Bike Park
Review: I rode John brown twice last weekend. What a great trail system! There is something for everyone. OMBA really takes great care of these trails. These are some of the best trails in Florida.
Similar Trail: Graham swamp
Similar Trail: Graham swamp
Review: Santos has something for everyone and it is one of my favorite trail systems in Florida. It has fast flowy trails, and though rocky trails, and also has a 50 mile Epic that can offer you a little of everything. it also has 2 different Pump tracks and one of the best Jump sections I have ever seen... Great camping, and bike shops very close by.. the complete package!
* Review edited 3/17/2011
Similar Trail: Alafia River State Park
* Review edited 3/17/2011
Similar Trail: Alafia River State Park
Review: I have ridden Santos twice. It is a well maintained trail and one of Florida's best - but I found it very flat and had a hard time getting my heart rate elevated. Warning - beware of ticks. I did not wear a deet based insect repellent and arrived home after my second ride removing about 8 deer ticks that I found over the next few days. I wont ride again witout wearing strong insect repellent.
Review: One of the best in North/Central Florida.
Similar Trail: San Falasco
Similar Trail: San Falasco
Review: Super maintained trails. We headed out into the trails from behind Santos bike shop on Hwy441 headed straight for the landbridge over I75. Believe it took us 45min ...very fast trails some tight spots and switchbcks. Overall fun. No spiders right now either.
Similar Trail: Na
Similar Trail: Na
Review: Great trials section. 25 miles greenway. Nice trails. Great camping
Review: We rode the Vortex side, not Santos. We def got to practice our switchbacks. hehe The ride in Vortex was pretty, but of course flat slightly boring. They did have a pump track that was pretty small. Avoid the "advanced" trails as they are just crazy. Not extreme, just poorly planned. Climbing a 60* rock or tight trees where you're ducking under spiders is not "advanced", just unridable. I think the highlight of the Vortex was the jumping section. Not easy to do, but set up nice and great for practicing catching air. My husband loved this part...
Review: Finally rode Santos and like everyone's told me it's unbelievable! With the exception of hardcore downhill, there's something for everyone out there. We rode several trails, John Brown, Vortex, Twister, Bunny, Dr. Ruth, Canopy, and one or two more. Loved John Brown and Vortex. Both short but really sweet technical trails. Twister and the Bunny trail were both really fast, clean, fun rides. All sections are really well maintained. Came across a couple pump tracks. Had an absolute blast out here. This place is a mountain biker's dream.
Review: Rode the trail a week ago and it started out great until I let somebody talk me into riding the vortex for a beginner bad move.Took a spill on a downhill dip other than that the trail was great.
Review: Rode here with family and friends ('sevendaysoff' and crew) and had a blast. Only rode the reds and they were flowing great, and well groomed as always. Jump bowel in the Vortex was looking good though most of the landings on the drops were eroded and grass was pretty thick. Always enjoy riding here.
Review: just plain insane mtb'ing for FL. my first time out there and we clocked over 20 miles , riding most all of the red and blue trails, and some of the yellow trails. Can't wait to go back!
Review: Always a blast! Plenty of elevation change on the Red Trails, but of course this is FL, so their is no mountains for all this elevation change everyone wants. Come on! Anyways, the Vortex was in tip top shape and way off the hook. The other trails are always sweet as always. Campground still looking good and still great service by the Greenway Park Rangers.
Similar Trail: Alafia, Loyce (Carter), Balm, GFT, etc. etc.
Similar Trail: Alafia, Loyce (Carter), Balm, GFT, etc. etc.
Review: Not much for elevation, but trails were amazing. Very well maintained and marked. Fun riding throughout. Rode over 20 miles and still have much more to explore and repeat!! Might have to come back down again next year to have more fun!
Review:
Very well maintained trail, Santos Area is great for speed and endurance but if you are looking for technical trails you should go straight to vortex area, a little short but challenging and super fun.
Similar Trail: Alafia, Markham and Oleta
Similar Trail: Alafia, Markham and Oleta
Review: I spent 2 days here last year and I fell in love with this place. You can ride until you die it seems. Natural elevation changes, long trails, technical sections, drops, climbs, BMX Jumps, pretty well marked. I was there for 2 days and still couldn't hit everything. This is a must for any serious rider or intermediate/beginner for that matter. Can't say enough good stuff about Santos.
Review: Just read all the reviews below... This park is the best in the South East.
Similar Trail: Alafia State Park in Brandon
Similar Trail: Alafia State Park in Brandon
Review: Wow, there are a lot of miles of trail here along with a ton of variety. On most of the blue trails I found the technical stuff was too far apart and I'd love to have more red trails but overall the there is a ton of fun to be had in Santos. I don't think hit soft sand once which was a pleasant surprise.
With so many miles of track there it would be great if there was some beginner track for the kids. Much of the yellow trail is very tame but the chance of the kids colliding with a fast rider is pretty high.
* Review edited 12/19/2009
* Review edited 12/19/2009
Review: The trail with the most variety in Florida. Beginner to expert, fast swooping sections like twister, rocky, more technical loops like Vortex, rythmn section, and the quarry. Top trail in FL along with Alafia.
* Review edited 11/24/2009
* Review edited 11/24/2009
Review: Trails are in great shape. The camping area is really nice, full amenities. Spend two days here if you can.
Similar Trail: None in FL
Similar Trail: None in FL
Review: Always a pleasure riding here! We were here for the IMBA "TAKMTB'ing Day" sponsored by OMBA. Camping at Santos is always fun and very relaxing by all means and right near the trail head as well. Of course we spent the majority of the time in the jump bowel of the Vortex section. The red trails surrounding the jump bowel are just awesome and definitely offer some great challenge, especially over boulders, rocks, steep rises, and fast rolling drops. We watched the big guns hucking the bigger drops and doing some phenomenal tricks while they were hucking and jumping. I truly love this place. Santos has something for everyone from the very beginners to the most extreme riders. The jump bowel is a freeriders piece of heaven.
Review: Just finished my 2 day ride at Santos and now on my way to Alafia. Santos is a great ride for everyone! The beginner and intermediate trails are smooth and flow beautifully through the forest. Havent ridden much of the red trails, but the ones through the vortex area were very fun with a lot of ups and downs. And then there is the Vortex area itself which is amazing! I love Santos!
Review: I'm a newbie and I just finished riding this place for the second time and is AWESOME! The EZ's are really easy and the intermediates have some sweet (but doable) technical stuff and fast ups and downs mixed with some fun twisty twisty and some smooth riding. And the red's are definitely hard, but if you're ok with putting your feet down when you need to and walking when you're in over your head, then def see what you can pull off, and you'll prob surprise yourself! It's truly got something for everyone and the variety makes it a choose your own adventure for how challenging you want it to be. LOVE twister!!
Similar Trail: nothing i've ridden even comes close
Similar Trail: nothing i've ridden even comes close
Review: Best trail system I've been on for florida. If you like to freeride. It's the only place I know of to really test what your made of.
Similar Trail: Grahm Swamp - Best trail in the north east Florida. Top 3 or 4 trails in Florida in my book.
Similar Trail: Grahm Swamp - Best trail in the north east Florida. Top 3 or 4 trails in Florida in my book.
Review: love all the trails the red marked are awsome, the drops insane loved them on a 20in andnow i love them more on a 26in XD
Review: Just got back from a four day riding trip at Santos (would of been 6 days if it were not for the freezing temps and freezing winds on the fourth night) and it is always an awesome place to ride no matter what skill level you may be in, it is for everyone, including the little ones. The new pump track at the trail head rocks. I love the new build on the transitions for all the drops in the jump bowel in the Vortex section. Red trails surrounding the Vortex are as fun as they have ever been, and John Brown, Ant Hill, Magic Mountain, and Rattle Snack still rock! To get the best experience at Santos, you have to camp at the Santos campground for at least two days. Come on and join the fun!
Review: I've been to Santos twice now and I think that it's great. I'd have to say that it is better than Alafia due to the amount of miles there and the diverse type of trails.The first time I went I found myself annoyed by all the trail intersections which forced you to constantly decide which way to go. The second time I took a little time to figure out the trail colors so I could just shoot for the harder stuff. I have yet to be there when the freeride guys are doing their thing but hope to catch them in action soon. The little freeride practice area has some short drops that are always fun. The campground is good and happens to be right next to the trail head. We are truly lucky to have a trail system like this in Florida! I won't hesitate to make the 1.5 hr trip again soon.
Similar Trail: Alafia River State Park, Fl, Boyette
Similar Trail: Alafia River State Park, Fl, Boyette
Review: Santos is the best trail in Florida, hands down! It's size alone means that you can't see it all in one day and it just keeps you coming back for more. The vortex freeride section has everything, huge drops, jumps, even a bmx track. Due to the fact that it was built in a quary means the elevation changes will have you questioning wether or not you are really in Florida. If you havn't been to Santos yet you're missing out.
Similar Trail: Markham Park, Sunrise, FL
Similar Trail: Markham Park, Sunrise, FL
Review: UNBELIEVABLE
Review: Once again, this is a very diverse network of singletrack with something for everyone, ranging from easy to very difficult and also the insane! This my most favorite MTB track alongside Alafia. I go here at least four to five times (or better) a year , and would go every other day if I did not live 135 miles away. I love "Anthill" & "John Brown" among the Vortex section. Awesome!
Similar Trail: Too many to post, but Alafai & Santos are the bomb!
Similar Trail: Too many to post, but Alafai & Santos are the bomb!
Review: Finally went last weekend and the place is rocking. Lots of great people there that'll help you out if you get lost (really not that bad a layout, for as long as the trails are it's easy to get back to trailhead). The trails were in excellent shape considering all the rain lately, only a couple muddy patches. Advice? Bring plenty of liquid. A bottle will not do it cause it's so long and you'll find yourself having to go all the way back every hour or so. Other than that, i had a blast exploring this place for the first time.
Similar Trail: Alphia
Similar Trail: Alphia
Review: All I can say is, "wow". This place has it all- easier trails for beginners, freeride areas for the experienced, and just some fun riding. I love it here. Going out there again this weekend to try out some other trails I didn't have a chance to hit the last time. This place is HUGE!
Similar Trail: Alafia
Similar Trail: Alafia
Review: Their is just not enough words to describe how epic of a ride you will have at Santos. Their is something for every level of skill, from the very beginner to the most expert rider. Love the free riding area of the Vortex, but their are some really insane jumps their, some that I would not partake in! Anthill rocks, but short. John Brown & Magic Mountain rock also! Pine Tree is really a nice trail for the beginner or just a good work out that you can get some good speed on, even when wet. I live in Melbourne, FL (about 120 miles or so) and it is always worth the time coming or even camping their at Santos or the surrounding area. Just beautiful country!! They took all our good trails away here in my area, and the only worth while trail riding is either in Ocala or Tampa/Lithia area. All be safe and ride hard! MTB'ing ROCKS!!
* Review edited 6/22/2008
Similar Trail: Alafia, all my other favorites CLOSED!!
* Review edited 6/22/2008
Similar Trail: Alafia, all my other favorites CLOSED!!
Review: First off, it's tough to give this trail an overall difficulty rating because the trails are so varied. Yes, there are about 60 miles of trail here (hard to believe but true) and yes Florida mountain biking rocks. I wasn't sure what to expect myself but now I'm a believer. I rode most of the trail during the OMBA Spring Break Epic ride (40 miles) right after a morning rain shower. I was afraid the trails might be muddy but on the contrary - the rain helped compact the sand, making the trails fast and fun. Speaking of sand - there really isn't that much - it's mostly covered with leaves and pine needles. Anyway, Santos is legit even for those outside the sunshine state.
Review: Awesome flowing single track...for Florida at least...mostly hardpack with very little sand and it also has a great expert section with sets of jumps and several large drops
Review: There are many trails to take . The trails are marked to indicate level of difficulty. Yellow tags indicate beginner level trails, blue is for moderate level trails, and red trails are for experienced riders. Remember that the trails tend to wind and intersect with each other so listen for approaching riders.
* Review edited 9/12/2007
Similar Trail: Razorback,Alafia,Markham
* Review edited 9/12/2007
Similar Trail: Razorback,Alafia,Markham
Review: I just went to this trail for the frist time in july 07 and WOW! The scenary here is amazing (especially coming from south florida.) The trails are really fun for everyone, even the easy trails because they are really fast. And then there is the freeride area. That area is amazing. There is so many jumps and drop offs. I would go to Santos just to ride in the freeride area.
Similar Trail: Closest thing as good as Santos in south florida is Markham park
Similar Trail: Closest thing as good as Santos in south florida is Markham park
Review: By far the best Florida has to offer in my opinion. It has everything from Family biking trails that are just as smooth as can be all the way to the most extreme double black diamond courses winding in and out of an old rock quarry. The pit of the quarry has been transformed into a BMX course that is free ride (AOR). In Santos you have epic rides like Ant Hill, Magic Mountain, and John Brown. If your not careful you will surely be carried off these trails. First major injury occured here, another friend was taken away in an ambulance. So if you are looking for everything from Sunday strolls to Diabolical madness, this is the place.. (Word of advice, bring a med kit, won't go unused)
Similar Trail: Razorback mountain bike trail, Reddick, FL (closest thing I have found)
Similar Trail: Razorback mountain bike trail, Reddick, FL (closest thing I have found)
Review: What an experience for only my second time out on a mtb. Will be spending alot more time at Santos. Challenging, epic, well kept.
Review: All I can say is: "TOTALLY AWESOME"!!! Well worth the trip from Melbourne, FL!! The Vortex Section was my kind of ride, minus a couple insane jumps off the cliffs. Anthill, John Brown, Magic Mountain, & Rattle Snake Ridge trails (red markers) were the bomb, I just could not get enough of these trails even after 6 to 7 hrs. of riding. The yellow trails (especially "Pine Tree") in the Santos Section are most definately family friendly and you can get some good speed on them (just watch out for other riders). All the blue trails were very nice offering some technical (mostly rock & roots) with a very few amount of inclines & declines. The campground at the Santos trailhead was very nice and well worth the three days camped their. I highly reccommend Santos to anyone, as it has something for everyone, from novice (beginner) to hard riders (expert riders). Try it, "You will love it"!!
Similar Trail: Alafia, Balm Boyette (both in tampa area), & Fort Pierce
Similar Trail: Alafia, Balm Boyette (both in tampa area), & Fort Pierce
Review: humongous mtb park. you can spend days riding there. there is a campground on premises. trails are marked well and are of different levels of difficulty for everyone. bring map, plenty of fuel and hit the trails very early in the morning.
Review: This trail system and park totally rock. There is something for everyone and all levels. The trails are hard packed well groomed and obviously receive TLC all the time. The Vortex area will challenge even Daren Bearcloth. There are drops as deep as 27' and ladder bridges that will keep you in line. Probably the best trail system and freeride park I have ridden.
Similar Trail: Razorback
Similar Trail: Razorback
Review: Great Trails. Lots of fun for everyone. All the trails are well marked. The maps posted throughout the riding area are great. The technical trails are definitely challenging and very rocky. All the other trails moderate and easy were awesome. This was definitely worth the 1 1/2 hour drive that I made for this ride.
Similar Trail: Balm Boyette Nature Preserve
Similar Trail: Balm Boyette Nature Preserve
Review: I rode this trail today. There are many trails to choose from and you could ride all day long. About 70% of the trail is for beginners, 20% is intermediate, and 10% is advanced. The advanced sextion is very rocky and technical. You have to be a real mountain biker and for the freerider, it is the best place in Florida. They have many downhills, jumps, and bridges. The woodlands of the trail are very nice.
Similar Trail: Markham Park and Balm Boyette Preserve
Similar Trail: Markham Park and Balm Boyette Preserve
Review: Best singletrack in Florida. Over 20 miles of trails. Area also includes separate hiking & horse trails. There is something for every type of rider here...scenery, great singletrack, technical challenges, and downhill. Other decent trails in the Ocala and Gainesville area.
Similar Trail: None...this is the best in Florida.
Similar Trail: None...this is the best in Florida.
Recommendations
Alafia River State Park (100%)Balm Boyette Scrub Preserve (71%)
Loyce E. Harpe Park (carter Road) (50%)
Oleta State Park (43%)
Markham Park (43%)
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epic imba epic longest road trip testFlorida Outdoor Lists
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Blue Spruce Ventures LLC | Decatur, GA
singletracks.com is yet another slick Review App
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I thought the Santos side was very beginner friendly. The techinal trail was on the Vortex side. A lot of intersections on that side too. The huge drops were interesting. Most of them were bigger than I felt my XC bike would handle. I had fun on the smaller ones though.
Santos has a little bit for everyone. I'm glad I printed a map before I left the house or I might have missed a few sections.
Similar Trail: Alafia