A Close Look at the Land and Its Natural Beauty
Citrus County is exceptionally hiker friendly. Those with the stamina and time to explore our wide range of terrain can hike through sandhill, scrub, hardwood hammock, swampland, prairie and marshland. In addition to unimproved paths, interpretive nature walks and hiking trails reveal unique ecosystems and the plants and creatures that inhabit them.
Many other activities take on a delightful new aspect when pursued in conjunction with hiking. Bird-watching, camping and fishing are all enriched when they are part of a hiker’s agenda. And the timespan of a hike can be a day, a weekend or as long as your visit—and your legs—allow.
One of the most scenic and enjoyable hiking venues in the state is provided by the Withlacoochee Trail State Park. It consists of a 46-mile stretch of railroad track that has been converted to a recreation area suitable for hiking, biking and horse riding enthusiasts. The Withlacoochee Trail State Park starts just north of S.R. 50, a mile east of I-75, and continues through the Withlacoochee State Forest near the Withlacoochee River, then continues north through Floral City, Inverness and Citrus Springs, and ends at Gulf Junction just south of Dunnellon.
