A great place to begin your exploration of Florida by bicycle is the St. Marks Trail, just south of Tallahassee. The St. Marks Trail is a paved hiking and biking trail that leads to the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge. From here, cyclists can venture on into the refuge to get an up-close look at the vast diversity of wildlife that Florida has to offer. This is not a hammerhead ride, but an easy, flat cruise that road and mountain bikers alike will enjoy while soaking in the scenery, wildlife, and unusually warm winters. Cyclists should definitely take the time to leisurely explore the wildlife refuge by bike and on foot.
Alligators are very common and are easily seen basking in the warm sun.
Deer, marsh rabbits and armadillo are also common. The trail sits atop a former rail grade and is 16 miles in length, one way. Mileage can easily be added if you choose to explore the wildlife refuge on County Road 59. The road winds through the refuge and at the far end leads to a historic lighthouse. The northern end of the trail hosts a small mountain bike loop as well.