A Quiet, Scenic Ride around Flatwoods Park in New Tampa
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Flatwoods Park, located in Hillsborough County, is a little nature oasis amidst the suburban congestion. The park is very quiet with a very rustic wilderness vibe, not really found at many other parks in the immediate region. I lived in this suburban area for a few years and this was my go-to spot for any type of fitness activity. My apartment complex was just down the road so it was super easy to access for weekday cycling and jogging workouts. Despite all the traffic, strip mall congestion, and new apartments that seem to go up every year in this ever growing New Tampa area, this park remains an attractive escape, especially if you plan your visit on a quieter weekday.
Beautiful native pine flatwood forests comprise the majority of the park. I love that I can see a different type of scenery here – the pines make me feel that I am no longer anywhere near the beach. During the morning hours, you may be able to see various forms of wildlife including deer, bobcats, and gators (more commonly seen during the cooler winter months). Strangely, I’ve never seen a gator at this park even though I see them almost everywhere else. While this is not one of my favorite parks in the metro, I consider it a great choice for any locals or tourists visiting the area for the day and seeking a temporary escape from the suburban clutter.
7 miles of Florida pines
The highlight here is a 7 mile paved multi-purpose trail which is ideal for biking, walking, running, or skating. Tree-lined views line the entire route providing a much needed change of scenery from surrounding cluttered suburbia. New Tampa is a super congested, chain overloaded area, so this park really is a hidden little oasis. It’s the only large park in the area and definitely the best choice for a long bike ride or marathon training. As you bike, run, or walk along, you will be treated to endless views of the pine forests. If you are used to only visiting the beach and seeing all the tropical plants, this path will feel much different. The loop is very flat, making it easy enough for beginning cyclists.
The entire loop takes us a little under an hour and a half. In the morning hours, the temps will be more tolerable hovering in the 70’s/low 80’s. I recommend planning your adventure early before the temperatures climb into the 90’s. It’s really the sun that gets to me the most which makes a morning ride the most attractive option. Or better yet, save this one for the fall/winter season. Florida heat and humidity during the peak of summer can be downright dangerous!
Traffic is typically lightest on Sunday mornings with only a handful of other cyclists and the occasional jogger. I highly recommend this park if you are looking for a quiet weekend escape, if only for a few hours. Here you can enjoy the more wild side of Florida – this park is scenic, peaceful, and quiet with the absence of traffic, crowds, and strip malls!
Note that with the 2 mile connecting trail to get to the loop, the full trail will be 11 miles but you have the option of turning around at any point if you tire.
Other activities to enjoy here include: nature trails, birdwatching, and picnicking.
Tips for a great ride
- Bring with a reusable water bottle. There are stations to refill. Or, wear a camelbak for convenient access.
- Make sure your bike is properly tuned.
- Wear loose fitting clothing.
- Wear sunscreen and a hat.
- Avoid summer biking, if possible. If you must, plan summer rides in the morning or evening to avoid extreme heat and sunshine.
- Pick up a trail map (located next to the bathroom).
- Pack a picnic lunch for your visit. It’s a beautiful park to relax and enjoy the afternoon.
- A walk along the boardwalk nature trail is a great place to take a break and observe the wetlands.
- For more great recreational paths in the metro, check out my Bay area biking guide.
Location & Parking
There are 2 entrances to the park. One is located at 14302 Morris Bridge Road in Thonotosassa and the other at 18205 Bruce Downs Road in Tampa. Hours are sunrise to sunset. Parking is $2 per car.
For free parking, park at New Tampa Nature Park where you can conveniently connect to the Flatwoods Loop.
