Explore the best cycling and bike touring routes in Raleigh, from scenic greenways to wooded trails and smooth city rides—perfect for a vacation on two wheels.
BEST CYCLING AND BIKE TOURING ROUTES IN JACKSONVILLE
Bringing your bike on vacation to Jacksonville? You're making a smart move. This Florida city is massive—literally the largest by land area in the U.S.—which means endless bike trails, scenic routes, and hidden pockets of nature just waiting to be explored on two wheels. Whether you're craving riverside cruises, sandy coastal rides, or shaded greenway escapes, Jax has a trail for you. Let's break down the top cycling routes so you can roll through this city like a local.
Riverside rides and city views
Northbank Riverwalk: Cruise the urban core
The Northbank Riverwalk is a scenic gem right in downtown Jacksonville. This 2-mile paved path hugs the St. Johns River and offers stunning skyline views, waterfront parks, and public art. It’s a smooth, flat ride—perfect for easy touring or linking up to longer routes. Ride past the Jacksonville Landing area, Memorial Park, and under towering bridges that light up at night.
Great spot for sunset rides and skyline selfies.
Connects to the Southbank Riverwalk via Main Street Bridge.
Plenty of cafes and food trucks nearby for a break.
Bike-friendly with minimal street crossings.
Southbank Riverwalk: City sights and local flavor
Cross the bridge and hit the Southbank Riverwalk for a different perspective of the city. This path extends another couple miles with waterfront views, shaded benches, and easy access to the Museum of Science & History. It’s less crowded than the Northbank side and gives you a peaceful vibe in the middle of the city.
Pair this with a visit to Friendship Fountain.
Early mornings offer cool breezes and quiet paths.
Good pit stops at River City Brewing and nearby cafes.
Nature trails and greenway escapes
Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail: The top tourer's route
If you're looking for a longer, more immersive ride, the Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail is where it's at. This 14.5-mile paved trail follows a former rail line through pine forests, wetlands, and open fields. It's smooth, shaded in many sections, and perfect for road bikes, touring bikes, or even e-bikes. The lack of traffic and road crossings makes it ideal for long, uninterrupted rides.
Rest areas with bathrooms and water fountains along the route.
Wildlife sightings include hawks, turtles, and deer.
Great year-round ride—especially in spring and fall.
Multiple trailheads for flexible start points.
S-line Urban Greenway: Short and sweet
The S-Line is a 4.8-mile urban greenway connecting Springfield to Durkeeville and beyond. It winds through historic neighborhoods and under colorful murals and public art. This is a great casual route with a mix of nature and culture. While shorter, it’s an awesome way to explore the heart of Jacksonville’s communities by bike.
Stop for photos at the local murals along the way.
Combine with a detour through Springfield for coffee or tacos.
Well-marked crossings and smooth pavement throughout.
Beach rides and coastal wind
Atlantic Beach to Jacksonville Beach: Sand and salt air
Few things beat a coastal bike ride, and the stretch from Atlantic Beach to Jacksonville Beach is pure cycling joy. You can ride on wide bike lanes, low-traffic side roads, or even sections of hard-packed beach (fat tires recommended). Stop at local shops, dip your toes in the surf, or grab a cold brew by the ocean. This route is more about vibes than speed, and that’s the magic of it.
Start at Beaches Town Center for bike rentals and coffee.
Plenty of oceanfront bars and taco joints along the way.
Weekdays are best to avoid traffic and beach crowds.
Watch for sand drifts and wind gusts—ride safe!
Guana River Preserve Trails: Off-road adventure
South of Jacksonville near Ponte Vedra, the Guana River Preserve offers several off-road trails for those seeking adventure. These dirt and gravel paths weave through coastal hammocks and marshland, offering a raw, untouched cycling experience. It’s more rugged than city trails, so bring your mountain or hybrid bike and get ready to explore Florida’s wilder side.
$3 entrance fee helps maintain the preserve.
Bring sunscreen, bug spray, and lots of water.
Look for osprey nests and gators near the water.
Celebrate your ride with local eats
After a good ride, reward yourself with Jacksonville’s local flavor. Grab fish tacos at TacoLu, a local IPA at Intuition Ale Works, or a beachside brunch near Neptune Beach. Many local eateries are bike-friendly and offer outdoor seating perfect for cooling off and soaking in that post-ride vibe.
Lock up your bike—many places have racks or patios.
Ask locals for hidden lunch spots near the trailheads.
Ride early, eat late—it’s the Florida way.
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