Imagine trading winter blues for turquoise waters and sunlit trails. On our Florida cycling tour, we ride in the cool ocean breeze on a designated bike route all the way down to Key West. This adventure takes you from the wild heart of the Everglades to the sun-drenched Florida Keys and the tranquil Gulf Coast islands – pedal by pedal, a paradise revealed.
Cycling Through the Everglades: Nature Up Close
The Florida Keys: Island Hopping on Two Wheels
A Tranquil Finish: Sanibel & Captiva
Why Choose a Guided Cycling Tour?
Cycling Through the Everglades: Nature Up Close
Your journey begins in the legendary Everglades, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the Shark Valley Scenic Loop, you’ll glide along paved path where wildlife is part of the scenery. Alligators sun themselves at the water’s edge while roseate spoonbills and herons patrol the skies. To enhance the experience, our guided ride includes a stop at the Shark Valley Observation Tower, where you can take in a stunning 360-degree panorama of the “River of Grass” and spot wildlife from above. It’s a serene, immersive start – nature at its purest and most untamed.
The Florida Keys: Island Hopping on Two Wheels
From there, the adventure shifts to the iconic Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail, a dedicated cycling route that parallels the historic Overseas Highway. Once a railroad, today it connects one tropical island to the next by a string of scenic bridges stretching over turquoise waters.
This is a dream ride, combining active adventure with seaside relaxation. While some sections of the Overseas Highway require traffic-sharing, your Timberline guides expertly manage the logistics, focusing the route on the safest and most scenic pedestrian/bike-only pathways, including historic sections of the Old Seven Mile Bridge. On the separated path, you get all the spectacular ocean views without the hassle of navigating highway traffic.
Each Key offers its own character – from the laid-back atmosphere of the Upper Keys to the quirky, colorful streets of Key West. Along the way, you’ll enjoy local seafood shacks, small-town charm and ocean views at every turn. In Key West, pause for a well-earned rest day to stroll Duval Street, catch a sunset at Mallory Square or discover the island’s hidden corners. Use the day to visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, take a snorkeling or diving trip to the reef or simply relax by the pool before the final leg of the tour.
A Tranquil Finish: Sanibel & Captiva
Just when you think you’ve seen it all, a scenic catamaran delivers you to the quiet Gulf Coast islands of Sanibel and Captiva. Known for their world-class shelling and relaxed pace, these islands are a cyclist’s dream.
With more than 25 miles of dedicated bike paths, you can ride past the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, stop at pristine beaches and take in the lush subtropical scenery. The refuge is home to over 245 species of birds, and you’ll often spot manatees or dolphins in the shallow waters along the coast. The ride here is peaceful and completely car-free. The terrain is flat, the views are endless and the calm rhythm of island life is the perfect finale to your Florida cycling journey.
Why Choose a Guided Cycling Tour?
Cycling Florida’s diverse landscapes on your own can be daunting. With Timberline Adventures, every detail is handled – from lodging and meals to daily logistics – so you can focus on the ride.
- Small groups, big memories: Average 12 guests per trip means more camaraderie and personal attention.
- Expert guides: Two leaders on every tour to share local insight, ensure safety and keep everything running smoothly. Our guides provide mechanical assistance, carry all luggage, and offer van support throughout each day, so you only carry what you need for the ride.
- Hidden gems: Routes and stops you wouldn’t find on your own, planned for the right balance of activity and comfort.
As one past guest put it: “Bicycling with Timberline Adventures was a fantastic way to experience the Florida Keys. I would never attempt this on my own!” – Suzy H.
Start Your Florida Adventure
Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just looking for a new way to explore, this fully guided tour brings Florida’s beauty within reach. From Everglades wildlife to ocean bridges and shell-strewn shores, every day offers a new perspective of the Sunshine State.
Ready to trade ordinary for extraordinary? Join Timberline Adventures for a Florida cycling tour and experience paradise – pedal by pedal.