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FLATWOODS OFF-ROAD MAP

FLATWOODS
Most riders are familiar with the paved loop shared by road cyclists and rollerbladers, but few know of the single-track opportunities within the park. There are several miles of rideable two-track access roads criss-crossing within the center of the paved loop, great for a beginner. Running adjacent to these roads is a single-track trail linking the 1800 Trail at the east end of the park, to the flood control structure located at the far west end of the park.

All single-track is heavily shaded by oak and pine. There is also single-track and two-track towards the back (west end) of the park. These trails, in conjunction with the above trails, are used to complete a path through Flatwoods. This path is part of the Wilderness Loop that connects all three parks into a 19 mile continuous loop. For those using the Bruce B. Downs parking lot,  there is single and double-track linking to the Wilderness Loop.

 

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MORRIS BRIDGE
Miles & miles of primo single track. A challenging mixture of trails crossing three distinct ecosystems.There are ‘high ground’ trails of hard packed dirt, and some sand. All with plenty of shade from pine and scrub oak trees. Approximately 20% of the trails transverse this ecosystem, typical of a central Florida forest. These trails are very scenic, and are beginner and intermediate level trails.
Running up the center of the park is the ‘mid ground’. These trails are all hard pack dirt, heavily shaded by Oak, Sugar & Red Maple, and Palmetto Palms. Gorgeous scenery, but you are usually too busy concentrating on the trail ahead to see much. Some of the faster runs are here. Comprising approximately 40% of the trail system, these are intermediate level.
Running adjacent to the Hillsborough River and Cow House Creek are the ‘low lands’ (read swamp). Depending on the season, this area transforms from soft pack dirt to muck, with all the beauty and mystery of a tropical rain forest. These will be your most technical runs. There are numerous logs to navigate over or around, and closely spaced trees ready to snag a bar-end or pedal. About 20% of the park’s trails are these low lands. These trails will be closed during the wet season to protect the environmentally sensitive ground and plant life.
The most technical riding is in the crossover area between the mid & low ground. The soft ground has long since washed away from the base of the trees, leaving the roots exposed. The roots are of various diameters, running at all angles across the path. A rider may travel many feet, moving from root to root without touching terra ferma. The trails weave between the closely spaced trees, often allowing only inches clearance on either side of your bar.

Definitely technical runs, requiring a delicate balance of finesse and brute strength. These most challenging trails may only account for 20% of your distance traveled, but probably 50% of your time.   One more thing: “you will get lost”.

 

 

TROUT CREEK
Located between Flatwoods and Morris Bridge Park, this makes a great starting point for day of fun riding. There are only several miles of trail in Trout Creek, but they are very scenic. There are two lakes, with trails round the perimeter of each, plus a nice two-track section along a power line. In addition to the single-track, riders can use the  levy to reach the flood control structure. This structure is used to cross the Hillsborough River, and is an integral part of the Wilderness Loop.
Also in Trout Creek Park are several large picnic pavilions next to the Hillsborough River. There is also a boardwalk and a canoe launch site.

All three parks have bathrooms, water and covered picnic tables. There are six parking lots dispersed along the Wilderness Loop. By using something other than the main parking area at Morris Bridge, the less congested sections of the trails can be easily accessed. This is most beneficial on weekends and holidays. Because of its proximity to Tampa, these trails can easily see 500 to 600 riders a week. All three parks are multi-use recreational facilities. However, Morris Bridge is primarily for hiking. A kiosk displays maps and trail information. Boxes containing information about the park and trails are attached to the kiosk .