Chain of Lakes Trail

This moderate 30.9-mile road cycling loop on the Chain of Lakes Trail offers diverse scenery and unique landmarks in Winter Haven.

The Haines City half century loop offers a dynamic road cycling experience through Polk County's distinctive rolling hills and smooth, well-maintained roads. You'll encounter a mix of flat, fast sections perfect for building speed, interspersed with more challenging climbs, particularly in the latter half of the ride. Keep an eye out for views of the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes and natural preserves as you pedal through Central Florida's varied landscape.

This moderate 49.1 miles (79.0 km) route, with 582 feet (177 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 3 hours and 4 minutes to complete. While there are no specific permits or fees, it's wise to plan your ride for cooler parts of the day and ensure you carry enough water, as amenities along the route can be limited. The roads are generally in good condition, suitable for a consistent pace.

This route is notable for its similarity to sections of the Ironman 70.3 Florida bike course, suggesting a quality cycling experience that can test endurance. The combination of varied terrain, from flat stretches to hills with grades up to 5.4%, provides an engaging ride for road cyclists. It's an excellent way to explore the natural beauty of Haines City and the surrounding Polk County area.