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Join the club on this appx 45-mile or 21-mile bike ride (two options). Gravel bikes or MTBs. Moderate pace with stops. Green Swamp and adjoining properties comprise one of the largest and most important conservation lands in the state, collectively over 500,000 acres of greenspace and serving as the primary hydrologic recharge for the Floridan Aquifer, and the headwaters of four major rivers; the Hillsborough, Withlacoochee, Peace, and Ocklawaha, and numerous other streams. Both route options will consist of hard-pack dirt roads, double-track, rugged grass and dirt trails, sand, mud, and potential water crossings – depending on conditions leading up to the ride. Both route lengths will also include appx 3 miles of rural paved road shared with vehicles. We will pass through multiple conservation lands including Hampton Tract, Green Swamp East, Green Swamp West, Colt Creek SP, and visit several remote lakes and other backcountry points of interest such as the Stewart Homesite and other surprises. The 45-mile route will also cross the Withlacoochee River. Please message me if you’re interested in the 21-mile option so we can make sure we have a 2nd ride guide and sweep for that shorter ride. Riders should be self-supported and accustomed to long off-road rides in remote areas. Restrooms and water at 10 miles (for both route options). There are no other facilities and cell reception is poor. Most of the route is closed to vehicles, but Hwy 471 can serve as a bailout point if needed. Bring tail lights (for paved road section), plenty of hydration, snacks/ lunch, sun screen, bug spray, tools, tubes and other flat repair. Ride guide Rob DeGraaf is a Senior Environmental Scientist and past Author of Fat Tire Favorites, Guides to West-Central and South Florida Off-Road Bicycling books, and a past director of the Florida Off-Road Bicycling Association (FORBA). Please post any questions under this ride Event or message me.
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14300 Rockridge Rd Lakeland Fl 33809, 14980 Rockridge Rd, Lakeland, FL 33809-0984, United States
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