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Latest update: January 2026

SR 50 Connector Trail... Central Florida (west)

A Trail Link in the FL Coast-to-Coast Trail

This is a work in progress. Part of the Florida Coast-to-Coast Trail (C2C), eventually the trail will run from the Withlacoochee State Trail in Ridge Manor to the South Lake Trail in Groveland (28 miles). Currently, 11 miles are complete, running alongside State Route 50 (SR 50) from the luncture of the Withlacoochee State Trail (Hernando County) to Webster (Sumter County). Then, a 17-mile gap remains to the South Lake Trail (Lake County). (Map link and photos below.)

Map
SR 50 Trail and Gap

Location: Hernando, Sumter, Lake Counties
End Points: Withlacoochee State Trail to South Lake Trail
Mileage: 11 miles to date, 28 miles when complete
Surface: Asphalt
Nearby points of interest: Withlacoochee State Trail, Richloam General Store, Van Fleet State Trail

Bike Shops/Rentals: N/A

 Page Summary:

1. Biking on the SR 50 Trail
   
2. Withlacoochee State Trail to CR 751 (11 Miles)
   - Ridge Manor Trailhead to SR 50 Trail
   - Trail along SR 50
3. More Information and Resources

Biking on the SR 50 Trail... Comments and Photos

• The completed section of trail runs alongside SR 50 with but with wide buffers or dividers from the roadway. Built as part of a road expansion project, the trail is not the most scenic stretch along the C2C, but was more pleasant than we expected despite the constant traffic.
• On bridges, the bike lane is protected by a barrier.
• There are several road crossings including two major roads - at US 98 (McKetchan Rd.) and at US 301 (Treiman Blvd.). These are busy roads, be careful and use the crossing signals.
• This is a fairly isolated area with limited facilities along the way, and is mostly unshaded - bring water, snacks and other needed supplies, plus sunscreen.

From the Withlacoochee State Trail (Hernando County) to CR 751 (Sumter County) (11 Miles)

Ridge Manor Trailhead to SR 50 Trail

From the Withlacoochee State Trail trailhead in Ridge Manor (parking, restrooms, picnic), ride across the bridge over SR 50. After crossing, look for the break in the fence to the right and go down the pathway to SR 50 and the trail. Continue east, under the trail bridge.

SR 50 Trail to US 301

Along the way, the trail crosses the Withlacoochee River. This area is more developed, and includes the road crossings at US 98 and US 301. Restroom and food options are available at the intersection with US 301. The route here is mostly unshaded.

At the bridge

At Ridge Manor

Crossing Withlacoochee River

 

At US 98

Community Center

 

At US 301

US 301 to CR 751

This section is more remote and runs through portions of the Richloam Wildlife Management Area with some shade. Make a stop at the historic Richloam General Store (1922) for refreshments, restroom, gift shop and a nostalgic trip to the past (take Richloam Claysink Rd., 1/2 mile).

View across SR 50 at US 301

Trail continues

 

Bridge over railroad

Through WMA

At Richloam-Claysink Rd.
- start gap option

Entering Sumter County - bridge over Little Withlacoochee River

 

Trail end at CR 751

The trail ends at CR 751. Biking to Groveland along SR 50 would involve riding the shoulder of this busy road with its high speed limits, which we do not recommend. Rather, there are several biking options which mostly avoid SR 50.

Click here to explore some alternate routes for navigating the 17-mile gap

More Information and Resources

Nearby Biking:

Withlacoochee State Trail
Van Fleet State Trail

This connector is part of the Florida Coast-to-Coast Trail