Florida Bicycle Association's 2016 Bike Club of the Year! ~ #1 Ranked Cycling Club in BikeJournal.com since 2017!
The Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail stretches 18 miles, one-way, from the city of Gainesville's new Depot Park through the Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park and other local and state conservation lands. There are three optional side trails to scenic Payne's Prairie Preserve. These overlooks add 2.2 miles near the beginning of the ride. On this historic rail-bed turned greenway you will pass by native plants and wildlife, diverse scenery and backyard Florida culture. Overlooks and stops of interest tie together a rich story of small railroad towns, locomotives and human activity along this corridor. This ride is suitable for all levels of riders. The terrain is mostly flat with a few rollers early on. The total ride on the trail is 36 +/- miles and an additional 2+ if you choose to visit all 3 overlooks. Since the ride is an out and back ride, riders may easily choose to do fewer miles. Restrooms are located in the first 8 miles. The ride starts and ends at Depot Park in Gainesville where there are pavilions, restrooms, water, a store and parking. There is also a field suitable for a picnic on blanket. Depot Park Bring adequate water, bug spray, and a replacement tube and tools for repairing a flat tire. There is NO Sag support. If you are unable to repair your bicycle you will need to walk it to the nearest cross road, call Dave or Cindy Taylor, and wait until they can fetch you in a vehicle. In case of a medical emergency call 911. There are mile markers painted on the trail every 1/2 mile to help 911 locate you. Please study, print and bring this map with you!