Withlacoochee State Forest: Croom Section

Croom Bike Trail: A Hidden Gem in Florida's Backcountry

Overview

Nestled within the depths of the Withlacoochee State Forest near Brooksville, Florida, Croom Bike Trail offers riders an expanse of about 50 miles of scenic, well-marked loops. Catering to cyclists of all skill levels, this less-heralded Floridian gem, mainly comprised of rolling single-track, is the perfect destination for everyone from beginners to advanced riders looking for some off-road adventure.

How to Get There

• Distance: 50 mi
• Level: Very Easy
• Route type: Loop
• City: Brooksville
• State: Florida

To reach the trailhead, head west from Orlando on SR 50, going two miles past SR 301. Turn right at the light onto Croom-Rital Rd. Continue north for 5.5 miles until reaching the intersection of Croom Rd (paved) and Nobleton Rd (dirt). Follow the dirt road to the tower at the north edge of the forest. If you find yourself lost, don't hesitate to ask for directions.

Trail Experience

General Features

The trail is designed with a network of out-and-back loops, which are mostly flat and wide single-tracks. Despite being somewhat isolated, the small trailhead by the side of the road is pretty straightforward. Because there are no amenities nearby, make sure to bring all the necessities, from water to a basic repair kit. Here's a snapshot of some trail specifics:

• Blue Trail: Offers a mix of flat cross-country and exciting features like sinks and gulleys, especially at the 9-mile mark.
• Yellow Trail: Less feature-rich, but smoother and ideal for beginners.
• Special Sections: Drunken Monkey serves as a more technical area, while Tired Hole provides a BMX track.

Surface and Signage

The trail is mostly solid with minor roots, although some soft and sandy patches do exist. It's critical to keep an eye out for the blue and yellow trail markers since there are other unmarked, intersecting trails for horse riding and ATVs. Frequent blazes are placed along the route, and missing one is a good indicator you might have gone off course.

Weather Conditions

Although accessible year-round, the trail can get quite hot during summer. It's worth noting that the sandy soil allows for excellent drainage, making the trail rideable even after recent rains.

Community and Maintenance

Kudos to the SWAMP (South West Association of Mountain bike Pedalers) team for their impeccable maintenance of the trail. The blue loop, in particular, is very well-groomed, and riders frequently praise the condition of this trail after SWAMP's intervention.

Safety and Accessibility

The trail is not technically challenging but offers bypasses for more difficult sections. It's a safe space for a beginner to navigate, though caution is advised on narrow sections where the drop could be severe.

Final Verdict

If you're looking to clock some serious miles or just want a day of leisurely cycling, Croom Bike Trail should definitely be on your radar. With its diverse terrains, excellent maintenance, and the breathtaking Floridian backcountry, it's a riding experience that has something for everyone.So gear up and head down to Croom Bike Trail. And remember, in the words of many a satisfied rider, it's a place to "shred, rinse, and repeat."