Manager's Message

A man in uniform stands on a bridge trail by water

Christopher Raby, Park Manager

My personal history with the Withlacoochee State Trail goes back almost my entire life. As a child I attended the Good Council Camp in Floral City. I remember the old school buses stopping at the railroad tracks near the corner of Gobbler Drive and Old Floral City Road, waiting to see if a train was coming by. As a teenager I also remember seeing the old railroad ties stacked up near State Road 41 when the old tracks near the Citrus Springs area were finally pulled up.

I would have never thought back then I would be lucky enough one day to be the Manager of the Withlacoochee State Trail.

In Florida, anytime is ideal to enjoy walking, biking or inline skating along our 47-mile multi-use trail. The trail passes through six distinct natural communities, each offering a glimpse of the Real Florida.

The southern end of the trail offers plenty of shade and a nice view of the Withlacoochee River while the northern end is more open and has higher elevations. My favorite portion is the mid-section of the trail that runs through downtown Inverness and borders Wallace Brooks and Liberty Park.

Be sure to check the weather, and hydrate well before and while using the trail.

Our staff and volunteers are devoted to the trail, continually working hard on maintenance and improvements to ensure an enjoyable experience for all. I hope to see you out there soon!