Lake Pithlachocco Bicycle Trail
There is a new off-road bicycle trail in town. The Florida Forest Service has just opened about 5.5 miles of trail on Newnans Lake State Forest, just east of Gainesville. It's called the Lake Pithlachocco Bicycle Trail. The trailhead parking area is on the east side of State Road 26, just across from the driveway of the North Florida Evaluation and Treatment Center, at 1200 NE 55th Blvd. The trail is open 7 days a week during daylight hours. Admission is free at this time.
You can be one of the first to experience this trail, and help pack the soil and define the pathway. The terrain is mostly flat, with a few sandy patches. A large portion of the trail meanders along the shady upland fringe of a hardwood swamp, arriving at the shore of Newnans Lake, where there is a nice spot to rest and enjoy the scenery. The return trip is in a mixture of hardwoods and a recently thinned mature pine stand. It is not uncommon to see wild turkeys, deer, and even bald eagles, while riding this trail.
There's not any drinking water or bathroom facilities at the trailhead, so prepare accordingly. During the warmer months be sure to bring insect repellent, sunscreen, and plenty of water. Bicycling and hiking is allowed on the trail, but no horses or motor vehicles please.