Thursday 14 November 2013

Best Bike Trails in Southwest Florida

Lovers of nature and sports enthusiasts both can find plenty of reasons to visit Sanibel Island, Florida. The local vistas and breathtaking scenery feature a collection of flora and fauna that can't be found anywhere else. If you're looking for a vacation destination where you can fully enjoy the location while staying active, consider a Sanibel biking trip. The conveniently located Inn of Sanibel is an excellent resort to stay at during such an excursion - and also makes one of the best romantic getaways in Florida.

Bike Trails in Sanibel

Biking in Sanibel is the best way to get around the island. Sanibel features 22 miles of well-maintained bike paths, many of which go right by plenty of areas that are renowned for shelling in Sanibel. Guests can pedal around the island to see historical sites, enjoy local wildlife and even spend time in the shopping district.


Rabbit Road Trail

An early morning bike trip along Rabbit Road Trail will leave little doubt as to how the trail received its name. At this time of day, bikers will see scores of common gray marsh rabbits along the canal. Visitors will also spot alligators and heron patiently stalking their prey on this trail, which runs behind a quiet Sanibel residential neighborhood.

Wildlife Drive

This sand-and-shell path is most easily navigated on a dirt bike, but the 4-mile loop around J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge is worth the rough ride. Many bikers enjoy stops along the way to hike farther into the refuge or ascend the bird observation tower.

Dixie Beach Road

For an easy ride accompanied by the opportunity to do a little shopping, visitors can take the Dixie Beach Road, an straight 1.5-mile stretch from Periwinkle Way to San Carlos Bay.

Middle Gulf Cemetery Route

For an off-road adventure not accessible by car, history buffs and nature lovers can enjoy a ride over the Middle Gulf Cemetery Route. Visitors can explore the pioneer cemetery, then continue toward the beach at Gulfside Park.

Bailey Road-Dunes Circle

Well-rounded athletes can take Bailey Road from the shopping center near Periwinkle Way and travel along the 2.5-mile route to the Dunes Golf and Tennis Club. Stop and enjoy a round of golf or a little tennis, or continue on to explore more of the island.

Tips for Sanibel Biking

Biking on Sanibel can be fun for all ages. Couples might enjoy borrowing or renting a bicycle built for two, and families will find several places on the island to rent bicycles and trailers for the kids, as well as helmets to keep everyone safe.


In Florida, all bikers under 16 are required to wear helmets. Remember that bikes are allowed on bike paths and on the roadways, but they are not allowed on the beach. If you are traveling with children, make sure to take the time to review bike safety rules before beginning your biking adventure.

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