Paynes Prairie by Bicycle

A Guided Ride on the Gainesville-Hawthorne Trail

See native wildlife, rare vistas of the sweeping grandeur of Paynes Prairie, and learn about our fascinating Indian and European history as you pedal your way leisurely along a beautiful, smoothly paved trail. Hear why the Prairie is sometimes a lake, and sometimes complete dry, and why it is so important to our way of life in North Florida. Learn about the huge animals which roamed this plain when people first arrived here. See native wildflowers and plants. See photos from a previous ride

Details:
An easy 12 miles with frequent stops to explore our natural and cultural history on the Gainesville Hawthorne Trail through Paynes Prairie. Ride starts at 9:00 a.m. from Boulware Springs City Park - SOUTH entrance, by the old pumphouse. Look for the "Prairie Bike Ride" sign, and the yellow Ford pickup. Ride finishes about Noon, and we usually go somewhere for lunch. Click here for a map of the trail

Dates: Please check back this fall | Send an email if interested

Requirements:
A serviceable bicycle, with aired-up tires. Helmets are strongly recommended.

Suggested Items to Bring: Clothing appropriate to the weather, sunscreen, water, snack food, whatever you what to carry.

Reservations Required

$5 suggested donation to Friends of Paynes Prairie, Inc., collected at the start of the ride.

Additional Resources:
Gainesville Hawthorne Trail Information
Self-Guided Ride Brochure (PDF) - a bit of what you'll learn!

Photo at top by John Moran

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