Cycle 30 Miles Paved - Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway

Ready to Up Your Ride to 30 miles? THIRTY MILES!

Please read before signing up.

We will meet at 49th Ave Trailhead. After quick introductions and trail etiquette reminders we will saddle up and try our legs out for 30 miles. This is the planned route. We will ride the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway (Greenway) from the Florida Trail 49th Ave Trailhead we will head west for approximately 5 miles to the end of the trail at State Road 200. After a brief stop, we will head east for 15ish miles, ending at Santo’s Trailhead. We will take a longer break, refill water bottles, use the facilities and then make our way back to the 49th Avenue trailhead to complete our 30-mile ride.

Starting out heading west will help us avoid the afternoon sun in these 5 miles (10 miles total) This area has no sun coverage, so be prepared. The remainder of the greenway goes in and out of the shade and we have a couple of road crossings. Please STOP and make sure it is clear to cross.

If there is anyone that only wants to ride 10 miles, you can join us for the out and back from 49th Ave Trailhead to SR200. We will not be riding back into the parking area, but it is a straight connection from the greenway back to the parking area.

Once we start heading east towards the Santos trailhead we will curve in and out of some of the most diverse scenery, wildlife viewing opportunities, rolling terrain and great flow. The greenway, crossing many times over the Florida Trail, equestrian and mountain bike trails. The paved trail is well marked, and you should take note of the crossings. We will also ride over the famous Landbridge. Do not pass up the opportunity to stop and look out over I75. The Landbridge Trailhead is not part of our stop, but if you need the restroom or need water, stop!

It will be exceedingly difficult for us to stay together like many of our easy-going social rides. We do not draft or ride as a group due to the different level of abilities for each individual cyclist. I will do my best to check on everyone along the way. We will gather at SR200 after the first 5ish miles and we will gather at the Santo’s trailhead. But please be aware that there will be times when you might be cycling by yourself.
The trail is paved and hilly at times. Just lower your gears and stay at a comfortable pace and you will do fine. Please add my phone number 813-486-3713 to your phone so if you need to turnaround or need help you have a contact number. If it’s an emergency use 911.

Since we will be pushing our legs out for 30 miles, I suggest the following break intervals. Break at the Cul de sac at SR200, get off your bike, drink some water, snack if you like and stretch a bit. Then get back at it and stop again at the Landbridge, then your next scheduled stop is at the Santo’s trailhead which is our turnaround location. It might feel odd to take extra breaks, but your legs will appreciate it. Keep your body fueled and hydrated. After our break we will head back west to the 49th Avenue trailhead (parking area). Break at the Landbridge and any other time you feel the need.

The most important thing to remember on this ride… break when YOU need it! Do not be intimidated by other riders. We are all different and we all react differently. Take short breaks more often instead of pushing yourself to exhaustion. Set yourself up for success! If at any point you feel like you have had enough, it is no problem to turn around or wait until we (the group) start our return. If you get to the 10-mile point (49th Ave Trailhead) and would prefer not to go any further (the additional 20 miles) you are welcome to end the ride. If you decide at any time during the ride that you want to stop and turn around, it is up to you but remember you will be on your own.

Helmets are required. Water is required. Please arrive with your bicycle ready to ride. Check the tire pressure beforehand.

By signing up for or attending ANY Suncoast Outdoors rides you agree to wear a bike helmet. Common courtesy to fellow riders and other folks on the trail is appreciated.

I understand that bicycling involves certain risks which I am prepared to fully assume for myself. I will follow all the traffic laws. I agree to waive all claims I may have against this meetup and host for damages or injuries sustained as a result of participating.
Day of ride 813-486-3713