The best road cycling routes in Martin County

This moderate 36.1 miles (58.2 km) road cycling loop from Jensen Beach to Fort Pierce offers scenic views of the Indian River Lagoon.

The East Coast Greenway and Ocean Trail Loop offers a delightful coastal road cycling experience, guiding you through scenic oceanfront promenades and charming beach communities like Jensen Beach. You'll enjoy frequent ocean views and a mix of dedicated cycleways and shared roads, providing a diverse backdrop for your ride. The route is predominantly flat and paved, making it accessible for most road bikes and riders.

This easy 17.1 miles (27.5 km) loop, with a minimal 101 feet (31 metres) of elevation gain, is designed for a relaxed pace, taking approximately 1 hour and 13 minutes to complete. Consider starting your ride from Colorado Avenue Park, a highlight along the route, which likely offers convenient access. Early mornings are ideal to beat the heat and enjoy the tranquil coastal atmosphere.

This particular segment is part of the much larger East Coast Greenway, a monumental 3,000-mile network connecting 15 states. It showcases the Greenway's ability to provide accessible, scenic coastal cycling opportunities, allowing you to experience diverse Florida landscapes and communities without significant physical exertion.

The Blowing Rocks Preserve via East Coast Greenway loop offers a captivating road cycling experience, blending the unique geology of Florida's coast with the expansive East Coast Greenway. You'll pedal past diverse ecosystems, from mangrove lagoons to tropical hammocks, with the highlight being the Anastasia limestone outcropping at Blowing Rocks Preserve itself. This moderate 44.3-mile (71.2 km) route, with only 211 feet (64 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 2 hours and 42 minutes, making it an accessible yet rewarding ride for many.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the route primarily uses well-paved roads suitable for most road bikes. While specific parking details aren't provided, starting early is always a good idea to enjoy the cooler temperatures and lighter traffic, especially during peak seasons. The flat terrain means you won't need to worry about significant climbs, though the bridges over the Intracoastal Waterway offer slight inclines.

What truly sets this route apart is the Blowing Rocks Preserve, home to the largest Anastasia limestone outcropping on Florida's East Coast. This geological marvel creates spectacular plumes of saltwater up to 50 feet high during high tide and rough seas. The preserve is also a critical nesting site for endangered sea turtles, adding a layer of ecological significance to your ride along the scenic East Coast Greenway.

The Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail offers an easy road cycling experience, stretching for 15.6 miles (25.1 km) with a minimal elevation gain of just 29 feet (9 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 1 hour and 10 minutes. As you ride atop the Herbert Hoover Dike, you'll find yourself surrounded by expansive views of Lake Okeechobee and the vast agricultural landscapes that define the region. The flat, open terrain provides a smooth ride, perfect for those looking for a relaxed outing.

When planning your visit, be aware that the trail offers virtually no shade, meaning constant exposure to the sun. It's crucial to bring plenty of water and any other supplies you might need, as restrooms and convenience stores are scarce along longer sections of the route. Wind can also be a significant factor on the dike, so checking the forecast before you head out is a good idea to ensure a comfortable ride.

This trail provides a unique perspective on Florida's largest freshwater lake. Keep an eye out for abundant wildlife, including various bird species like herons and egrets, and even alligators in the waters below. The open setting also makes for spectacular sunrises and sunsets over the lake, adding a memorable visual element to your ride.

This 58.9-mile moderate road cycling loop in Martin County offers diverse Florida ecosystems and rural charm, including Seabranch Preserve S

Embark on a moderate road cycling adventure with the Lakeside Ranch STA via Conners Highway loop. This route spans 50.5 miles (81.3 km) and features a gentle 111 feet (34 metres) of elevation gain, making it a manageable ride for most cyclists. You can expect to complete it in about 3 hours and 5 minutes. As you pedal, you'll encounter mostly well-paved roads, but be prepared for sections of shell-gravel on the levees within the Lakeside Ranch STA, which also lack shade. The scenery offers picturesque views of expansive wetlands, particularly as you ride near Lake Okeechobee.

Planning your ride on this loop is straightforward, as the recreation area provides essential facilities. The levees are open to the public for bicycling, ensuring easy access to the route. You will find amenities such as parking, restrooms, informational kiosks, signage, and picnic shelters conveniently located along the levee trails. These provisions make it easy to prepare for your journey and enjoy your time on the route.

This trail is notable for its location within the Allapattah Flats Wildlife Management Area, offering a unique blend of recreation and nature. The Lakeside Ranch STA area is crucial for improving water quality and provides excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, especially birdwatching. Keep an eye out for various species, including hawks, bald eagles, wading birds, limpkins, and snail kites. This makes the route not just a cycling challenge, but also a chance to connect with Florida's diverse ecosystem.