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WEST VOLUSIA COUNTY, FL — From spandex-clad roadies to cycling neophytes, you’ll see all sorts of people on West Volusia’s multi-purpose Spring-to-Spring Trail. Cyclists, runners, skaters, hikers, and dog-walkers all make use of the trail system. Designed to encompass a 26-mile network of trails with limited exposure to vehicular traffic, the Spring-to-Spring Trail runs through DeBary, Orange City, DeLand, Glenwood and DeLeon Springs. About 18 miles have been completed to date.
Location: Lake Monroe Park to Green Springs
Distance: 8.08 miles
The bike ride from Lake Monroe Park to Green Springs Park starts along a boardwalk that extends over a cypress swamp. On this trail, you’re never miles from anywhere, but with pine woods, oak and palm hammocks and even prairie alongside, you might feel like you’re out in the boonies.
Keep your eyes peeled and your head on a swivel. You might spot bald eagles, osprey, wild turkeys or other critters along this section of the trail. Stop at Gemini Springs for a break. Admission is free. Here, under the moss-draped oaks, you can enjoy a picnic, a break, or a restroom stop.
From Gemini Springs, you can ride to DeBary Hall, a former retreat for a steamboat baron. This 1870s era Victorian home is open for tours Tuesday-Saturday 10 am-4 pm and Sunday noon-4 pm for a fee.
From DeBary Hall, you can double back out to Green Springs Pathway which parallels Dirksen Drive/DeBary Avenue. The trail continues to Thornby Park and ends at Green Springs Park, a green sulfur spring. Each of the parks has restrooms, water fountains and parking areas.
Location: Blue Spring State Park to Lake Beresford Park
Distance: 5.5 miles
Sometimes, it’s nice to ride your bike on a predominantly flat and paved trail. That’s what you’ll get on the ride from Blue Spring State Park. It’s an easy pedal for most all levels of riders. It’s a tree-shaded ride part of the way and then past open fields, and some swamp land. Along the trail, you’ll find picnic/rest pavilions, benches, and trash containers. There is an underpass at West French Avenue and a pedestrian bridge over the railroad tracks at Blue Springs Avenue.
Should you decide to go off-trail and visit the state park, there is an honor system pay station. The current fee for pedestrians or bicyclists is $2.00.
The trail ends at Lake Beresford Park. However, if you cross the street, you can spin your pedals another 2-miles on the Lake Beresford Trails Loop. You’ll find a playground, restrooms, picnic pavilions and a parking area at this section of the trail.
There are also two detached sections of trail along Grand Avenue. The south end starts at W. Minnesota Avenue near Barkley Square Dog Park and runs to King Street. nThe second segment picks up at Lemon Street and runs to W. Baxter Street across from Chuck Lennon Park. It is just east of Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge.
A final future phase is a trail from Glenwood to DeLeon Springs. Cyclists will have access to four natural springs and two lakes once this piece of the trail comes online.
Riding the Spring-to-Spring Trail is an excellent way to take in the natural beauty of the area, get some exercise and explore the great outdoors. So, strap on your helmet, slap on some sunscreen, pack some water and a snack and hit the trail!
IF YOU GO:
Location: West Volusia County
Distance: 26 miles when complete
Lodging: Hotels in Deltona and DeLand.
Trail Map: Spring-to-Spring Trail Map
Unless otherwise attributed, photos are copyrighted by Michael Warren. All rights reserved.
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