Dunnellon Trail and Withlacoochee River Bridge
Explore/Florida/Dunnellon Trail and Withlacoochee River Bridge

Dunnellon Trail and Withlacoochee River Bridge

Dunnellon / Nature Coast, Florida

Activity

Walking / River Bridge

Distance

4.6 mi round trip

Route

Out & back

The adventure

The Dunnellon Trail delivers one of those rare Florida moments when a paved path suddenly opens above a broad river. After winding through green floodplain forest, the route rises onto a substantial bridge over the Withlacoochee, with cypress-lined banks stretching away below.

This easygoing rail-trail-style outing has a surprisingly immersive feel, especially where the pavement threads through swamp forest. It suits walkers and cyclists who want a scenic river crossing without committing to a remote backcountry trek.

ONCE YOU’RE THERE

Park at the signed Dunnellon Trail access on West Withlacoochee Trail. Follow the paved route toward the river bridge and continue as desired, then return by the same trail; the full out-and-back is approximately 4.6 miles.

LOCAL INTEL

The trail is part of the Cross Florida Greenway and provides a connection toward the Rainbow River area.

FEES, PERMITS & ACCESS

No entrance fee listed for this public trail or preserve.

TRAIL CONDITIONS & SAFETY

Shared-use pavement; yield to other users. Bring water because potable water is not guaranteed along the route.

BEFORE YOU GO

Confirm current access, temporary closures, and trail conditions with the land manager. Bring water and give wildlife plenty of space.

What to expect

  • The Dunnellon Trail delivers one of those rare Florida moments when a paved path suddenly opens above a broad river.
  • The trail is part of the Cross Florida Greenway and provides a connection toward the Rainbow River area.

Good to know

Trail Conditions
Shared-use pavement; yield to other users. Bring water because potable water is not guaranteed along the route.
Arrival
Start at Dunnellon Trail western trailhead.
Fee
Free — no required entrance or parking fee.
Entrance fee
No entrance fee listed for this public trail or preserve.
Dogs
unknown.
Season
Year-round; summer heat, thunderstorms and insects can affect comfort and access.

Photos

Dunnellon Trail and Withlacoochee River Bridge
Photo: DanTD / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source

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