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 ORLANDO
Orlando might be famous for theme parks, but it’s also a sneaky-good cycling destination. If you're planning a vacation and bringing your bike along, you’re in for some smooth trails, nature-packed rides, and easy access to the city's coolest neighborhoods. Whether you're cruising past lakes, rolling through tree-lined paths, or connecting between parks and downtown, Orlando’s bike scene has something for everyone. This guide breaks down the best routes for cyclists looking to explore the city beyond the theme parks, with plenty of spots to relax, refuel, and snap a few memorable pics.
Coast the West Orange Trail
A 22-mile paved ride through old Florida charm
If you only ride one trail in Orlando, make it the West Orange Trail. It stretches about 22 miles from the outskirts of Apopka down to the charming town of Winter Garden, giving you a real taste of Central Florida. The path is fully paved, wide, and shaded in many sections, making it ideal for a relaxed touring pace.
Start your ride in downtown Winter Garden, a bike-friendly hub with free parking, restrooms, and cafes where you can fuel up. From there, you’ll ride past old railroad tracks, citrus groves, and quiet suburban pockets that feel far from Orlando’s busy center. The path is dotted with water stops, benches, and rest areas, and it’s mostly flat—great for riders of all levels.
This is a great option for families, solo riders, or groups who want to take their time and explore at their own pace. If you're in no rush, grab lunch or coffee in Winter Garden and soak up the small-town vibe.
Length: 22 miles one way
Surface: Fully paved, smooth
Scenery: Towns, trees, old Florida
Best for: Long leisurely rides
Stops: Winter Garden, Chapin Station, Apopka
Whether you're riding for fitness or fun, the West Orange Trail is one of Orlando’s best-kept secrets. Just be sure to bring sunscreen—Florida sun doesn’t mess around.
Cruise through Orlando Urban Trail & Loch Haven
Lake views and artsy stops in the heart of the city
For a shorter ride packed with charm, the Orlando Urban Trail (OUT) offers about 3 miles of relaxed urban cycling that links up key neighborhoods and cultural spots. It’s a great warm-up ride or mid-day cruise if you’re exploring the city by bike.
Start near Lake Ivanhoe, then wind your way through the Loch Haven Cultural Park—home to the Orlando Museum of Art, Science Center, and beautiful lake views. This ride is perfect for travelers who want to mix cycling with a bit of exploring on foot.
You can extend the route by connecting with the Dinky Line Trail or riding through Mead Garden, just a few miles north. It’s a low-stress urban route, with wide paths and light foot traffic, ideal for casual riders or those biking with kids.
Length: 3–6 miles with extensions
Surface: Paved, urban trail
Scenery: Lakes, museums, green spaces
Best for: City tours, beginners
Stops: Loch Haven Park, Lake Ivanhoe, Mead Garden
This trail is proof that you don’t need to leave the city to enjoy a scenic and peaceful ride. Great for laid-back vacation days or post-brunch pedaling.
Ride the Cady Way Trail to Winter Park
Connect city, suburbs, and lakes in one smooth ride
The Cady Way Trail is a local favorite for connecting downtown Orlando to the upscale neighborhood of Winter Park and beyond. The 7.2-mile paved trail offers a mix of tree-lined stretches, park crossings, and suburban charm. It’s popular with commuters and weekend riders alike—and with good reason.
The trail connects to Lake Baldwin Park, a beautiful spot to rest or picnic, and passes through Showalter Field and several quiet neighborhoods. Once in Winter Park, you can roll around its scenic streets, stop at a sidewalk café, or visit the Saturday Farmers’ Market if you're there on a weekend.
For longer rides, Cady Way links up with the Cross Seminole Trail, letting you keep the adventure going well beyond city limits. The path is well-marked and mostly flat, with dedicated crossings at major intersections.
Length: 7.2 miles one way (extendable)
Surface: Paved, mixed-use
Scenery: Parks, lakes, neighborhoods
Best for: Long half-day tours
Stops: Lake Baldwin, Winter Park, Showalter Field
The Cady Way Trail gives you the best of Orlando—urban access, nature views, and suburb-style chill—all in one connected ride. Bring a lock, grab a coffee in Winter Park, and enjoy the best of both worlds.
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