Type: Paved Path, Point-to-point
Difficulty: 2 / 10
Altitude: 30 ft
Elev. Gain/Loss: 10 ft / 15 ft
Dog Friendly: Yes, with leash
Jog-Stroller Friendly: Unknown
Filed Under: Running
The 29.2 mile trail (12 ft wide paved path) through the Green Swamp was once a railroad track that has been converted for recreational use. The trail extends from Polk City through Bay Lake to Mabel.
This rail-trail is one of Florida?s most rural. It runs through the Green Swamp, the headwaters for some of Florida?s most canoed rivers, the Withlacoochee (South), Hillsborough, and Peace. Landscapes include the natural environments associated with the Green Swamp, former citrus lands and cattle ranches. With only one curve in its 29.2 miles, you can choose to go slow and view the wildlife or enjoy it at a brisk pace. The trail has excellent wildlife viewing opportunities between Green Pond Road and Bay Lake Road.
The trail is open from sunrise to sunset daily. Be sure to bring plenty of water as some areas are fairly remote.
Watch out! You might even see a gator on trail.
Mabel Trailhead:
From Clermont, take SR 50 west to the trailhead approximately miles past the intersection with CR 565/Bay Lake Road.
Bay Lake Trailhead:
From Clermont, take SR 50 west to CR 565/Bay Lake Road. Turn left (heading south) and follow the road until you reach the trailhead on the left at the intersection with the trail.
Green Pond Road Trailhead:
From Clermont, take SR 50 west to SR 33. Turn left (heading south) and follow SR 33 until you reach Green Pond Road. Take a right (heading west) and continue until you reach the trailhead.
From Lakeland, take Interstate 4 East to Exit 20 (new Exit 38) for SR 33. Follow SR 33 through Polk City and north to the intersection with Green Pond Rd. Turn left (heading west) and continue until you reach the trailhead.
Polk City Trailhead:
From Lakeland, take Interstate 4 East to Exit 20 (new Exit 38) for SR 33. Follow SR 33 into Polk City and look for trailhead at intersection with CR 665.
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