Biking

There is no better way to explore the 'land side' of the outdoors in the area than by bicycle. From the Cape Haze Pioneer trail to pretty much all of Punta Gorda, you'll find pedal power is the way to go.

Cape Haze Pioneer Trail

The Cape Haze Pioneer Trail runs 8 miles, traversing the Cape Haze peninsula from SR-776 (north) to Placida (south). The trail is a conversion of the historic rail line that linked the Florida phosphate industry in Florida to the rest of the world, including the Port of Boca Grande, the original deep-water. 

Keep an eye out for the diverse birds and wildlife in the area. The trail crosses salt and freshwater creeks on converted rail bridges, and Roseate Spoonbills, Ospreys and Bald Eagles are not uncommon sights. 

There are several parking locations on the trail, including at the Cape Haze Pioneer Trail Park at the northern trail head. Multi-use pathways have also been extended into nearby neighborhoods Rotonda West and South Gulf Cove, so if you're staying in a vacation rental in either of those neighborhoods, you may not need your car for days at a time. 

Drop off the trail onto surface roads in Placida and cross the Boca Grande Causeway ($3 toll for cyclists) to pick up the Boca Grande Rails-to-Trails continuation that runs an additional 6 miles, the length of the island. Click here to jump into a Google Street View™ of one of the bridges along the trail.

 

Punta Gorda Pathways

Punta Gorda is one of the most bicycle-friendly cities in the United States.

The Punta Gorda Pathways connect throughout the city in a bicycle-friendly transportation network. The most well known is probably Harborwalk, running 2.5 miles along...you guessed it, Charlotte Harbor. 

Linear Park is built on a historic railroad bed that was abandoned in the 1890s and runs about 1 mile through picturesque neighborhoods in Punta Gorda from Fishermen's Village to Tamiami Trail.

The "Shared Use Path" connects the heart of the city with neighborhoods on the south side of the city. From the southern end of Shreve Street, the path runs along Tamiami Trail (US 41) for four more miles.  

 

Free Bicycle Loan Program in Punta Gorda

No need to worry about the logistics of bringing your bike here: Punta Gorda initiated Florida's first Free Bicycle Loaner Program. Show your ID and credit card (copies will be returned when the bike is returned) and set off on your adventure, free of charge. Bicycles are available at the following locations: 

 

Other Rides

There are many other places to ride in the area, including some long rides that reach well out into the beautiful rural areas of Charlotte County. Check out our digital Cycling Guide for more information.

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