In + Around Tampa Bay
6 Tampa Bay Bike Trails That Will Get Your Kids Motivated to Ride
When I was younger most kids I knew rode bikes for fun/transportation. It was just a rite of growing up. I recently stumbled upon this article and was saddened to learn that may not be the case among as many kids today. One of the factors it mentions is a huge increase in various forms of screen time. Sound familiar? You may want to try trading the screen battle for bike riding. If you’re looking for a new place to enjoy a family bike ride, check out one of these Tampa Bay bike trails.
1. Upper Tampa Bay Trail
There are many trailheads to access this 14 mile out and back ride. It’s $2 for parking at these spots and many of them have restrooms and cold water. You will also have a wonderful variety of scenery/wildlife on this ride. The southern-most trailhead is on Montague Street. If you chose to, you can connect to the Suncoast Trail after the northern-most trailhead on Lutz Lake Fern Rd.
2. Selmon Greenway
The best place to begin your ride is on the west end of the greenway in downtown Tampa near Ashley Drive and E. Brorein St. You can ride 1.7 miles northeast to Ybor City with plenty to do and see along the route.
3. Lettuce Lake Park
This beautiful park on Fletcher near 1-75 has many amazing things to offer. It is a paved trail that is 1.25 miles long. Because of its popularity, you may prefer to go at an off-peak time. There is a $2 per car entry fee, but it’s well worth it.
4. Flatwoods Park Trail
Located in Flatwoods Conservation Park, this 7 mile paved loop trail is a great place to enjoy Tampa’s natural beauty. You can access this park thru two entry points. One is on Morris Bridge Road and the other is on Bruce B. Downs. Paying your $2 per car entry fee will allow you to enjoy all of the park’s awesome offerings.
5. Town-n-Country Greenway
The greenway is easy to access by parking at the Shimberg Sports Complex. Then ride west to its end at Sheldon Rd. The ride is about 3 miles and is nice for beginners because it’s not overly crowded.
6. Al Lopez Park
All of the trees at this West Tampa park offer a lot of shade, which is perfect if you’re enjoying time there during the hotter months. The paved loop is just over a mile around and there are also many other amenities to enjoy.