Jacksonville has tons of great parks and outdoor activities for families, and biking is a top choice for many. With an abundance of scenic landscapes, from beachside paths to lush forest trails, the First Coast offers plenty of kid-friendly options. Whether you’re looking for a quick ride through a local park or a longer trail through nature preserves, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the best bike trails for families in Northeast Florida, perfect for young riders and parents alike.
Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail
One of the most popular trails in North Florida, the Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail is a flat, paved path that runs for 14.5 miles along a former railway corridor. This trail is ideal for families, providing a safe, car-free biking experience.
- Why it’s family-friendly: The trail is smooth, wide, and completely separated from traffic, making it easy for families with young children or those towing bike trailers. There are multiple access points, so families can opt for a shorter ride if needed. Benches, shaded spots, and rest areas along the trail ensure you can take breaks whenever necessary.
- Additional perks: The trail cuts through forests and fields, giving riders the chance to spot wildlife. Near the Imeson Road trailhead, there’s a playground where kids can take a break from biking.
Timucuan Bike Trail
Located on Amelia Island, the Timucuan Bike Trail runs alongside the coast and through the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Why it’s family-friendly: The mostly flat, paved trail is easy for kids to navigate. It’s wide enough to accommodate families riding together, and there are no steep hills to worry about. The scenic views of the beach and nature preserve keep things interesting for kids who might need a distraction to stay engaged.
- Additional perks: Beach access near Amelia Island State Park means families can combine biking with a beach day. Picnic areas and restrooms are available along the trail for added convenience.
Little Talbot Island State Park
Little Talbot Island State Park is one of our favorite Florida State Parks. It offers a peaceful, unspoiled environment and bike trails.
- Why it’s family-friendly: The park features a 4-mile paved loop trail that’s perfect for families with kids. The flat terrain and serene setting make it easy to ride, and the trail offers plenty of shade from the surrounding trees. Because it’s a less crowded park, families can ride without worrying about heavy traffic or large crowds.
- Additional perks: The park offers beach access, so families can take a break and enjoy the sand and surf. Picnic areas are also available, making it easy to pack a lunch and extend your stay.
Ed Austin Regional Park
Located in Jacksonville’s Arlington area, Ed Austin Regional Park is a large, multi-use park. It’s always on our list of top parks in Jacksonville and the bike trails are perfect for families looking for an easy, relaxed ride.
- Why it’s family-friendly: The paved bike paths are smooth and flat, making them easy for kids of all ages. The paths are set in an open, green space, so parents can easily keep an eye on younger riders. The park’s quiet atmosphere and wide paths make it ideal for families looking for a laid-back biking experience.
- Additional perks: After biking, families can enjoy the park’s playgrounds, sports fields, or picnic pavilions. The wide-open spaces and multiple activities make Ed Austin Regional Park a great all-day destination.
Ringhaver Park
Located on Jacksonville’s west side, Ringhaver Park offers a mix of paved and natural surface trails, providing a great variety for families.
- Why it’s family-friendly: The park has several easy, flat trails that are perfect for kids and families. The 2.4-mile paved trail winds through wooded areas and offers plenty of shade, making it a comfortable ride even on hot days. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, so kids may enjoy spotting birds, turtles, and other creatures along the way.
- Additional perks: Ringhaver Park includes a large playground, picnic areas, and a canoe launch if you’re looking for more ways to enjoy the outdoors after your ride.
Tillie K. Fowler Regional Park
Tillie K. Fowler Regional Park is another fantastic urban park offering both paved and unpaved trails, allowing families to choose their level of adventure.
- Why it’s family-friendly: For younger riders, the paved trails are a great introduction to biking, while more adventurous families can try out the unpaved trails. The paths are mostly shaded, providing a cool, relaxing ride, and the park is large enough that families won’t feel crowded.
- Additional perks: The park has an observation tower that offers beautiful views of the surrounding wetlands. There’s also a large playground for kids to enjoy after their ride, along with picnic areas for a relaxing meal.
Bulls Bay Preserve
For families who want to escape into nature, Bulls Bay Preserve is a hidden gem located in Jacksonville’s west side. With several biking and hiking trails, this park offers a peaceful ride in a natural setting.
- Why it’s family-friendly: The trails are mostly flat and easy to navigate, making them perfect for younger children or those new to biking. The wide-open spaces and natural scenery provide a quiet, relaxing ride without the hustle and bustle of a busier park.
- Additional perks: The park’s wetlands and forests offer excellent wildlife-watching opportunities, and there are picnic areas where families can stop for a break.
Hanna Park
Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park offers a variety of biking trails for all levels, from beginner to advanced. With over 20 miles of bike paths, this park is a treasure for families looking to combine nature exploration with a casual bike ride.
- Why it’s family-friendly: For beginners and families with small children, Hanna Park offers easy, short trails that wind through wooded areas and around freshwater lakes. The terrain is flat, making it easy to navigate, and families can take their time without worrying about traffic.
- Additional perks: After your ride, cool off at the beach or in the splash pad. There’s also a playground and picnic areas to enjoy after biking, making it an excellent all-day destination for families.
Beach & Peach Urban Park
Beach & Peach Urban Park is a lesser-known spot in Jacksonville but offers some great bike trails for families. The park features a variety of recreational options, including paved bike trails that are perfect for beginners.
- Why it’s family-friendly: The paved trails are flat and wide, offering a simple, easy-to-navigate path for young riders. Because the park is relatively quiet compared to other urban parks, families can enjoy a peaceful ride without worrying about heavy traffic.
- Additional perks: The park has sports fields, playgrounds, and plenty of green space, giving kids room to run around after biking. It’s a great place for a family outing that combines biking with other fun activities.
St. Augustine Shores Trail
Located in the historic city of St. Augustine, the St. Augustine Shores Trail is a part of the Greenway Trails network. This trail offers an easy ride through the residential St. Augustine Shores neighborhood.
- Why it’s family-friendly: The paved path is flat and car-free, making it safe for younger children and less experienced riders. The trail is shaded, providing a cool ride even on hot days, and the neighborhood setting ensures a quiet, low-traffic environment.
- Additional perks: The nearby Shore Park has playgrounds and picnic areas, so families can stop for a break and enjoy some additional activities.
Black Creek Trail
The Black Creek Trail is a lesser-known gem located in Fleming Island, just south of Jacksonville. This 8-mile trail follows US 17 and winds through quiet neighborhoods, offering a mix of paved surfaces and nature views.
- Why it’s family-friendly: The wide, paved trail is ideal for families with kids who are still learning to bike, as it offers plenty of room to ride without feeling confined. The trail runs along a quiet road with minimal traffic interaction, providing a safe environment for families. Parents can also enjoy the shaded sections that make the ride more comfortable on hot days.
- Additional perks: The trail connects several parks, such as Thunderbolt Park, where kids can enjoy a playground and picnic areas. It’s also conveniently close to shops and restaurants, so families can grab a bite to eat after a fun ride.
Tips for Biking with Kids
- Stay hydrated: Always bring plenty of water, especially on longer rides.
- Wear sunscreen and helmets: Protect your skin and ensure safety with helmets for everyone.
- Plan breaks: Many trails have picnic areas or playgrounds, so take breaks to keep the kids energized and happy.
From beachside rides to urban parks and natural preserves, Northeast Florida offers an array of family-friendly bike trails. If you’re looking to get out of North Florida and make a day trip of biking, then be sure to check out Jekyll Island and Winter Park, two great spots for a biking day trip.
