These Bike Trails Near Miami Are Perfect For Cycling with Kids
Sunny weather makes any bike ride with the family better. Being able to stop at the beach to build a sandcastle, splash around, or take a nap is the cherry on top. With these top bike trails near Miami FL, you’ll find the perfect place to take the kiddos when you need to escape the house. Read on to learn more about each trail. And, if you’ve never ridden with your children before, check out Hamax child bike seats and trailers. The premier Scandinavian brand of child transportation makes it easy and stylish to cycle with the whole family.
Amelia Earhart Park
This 515-acre park sports over 7 miles of trails that any bike family will find enjoyable. There is a multitude of trails to please both beginners and advanced riders. Make sure to watch out for signs at trailheads as the trail directions are not consistent. Make your adventure into a full day by enjoying the watersports available on the 90-acre freshwater lake. Kiddos will enjoy the Bill Graham Farm Village and the Tom Sawyer Play Island, and Fido can run to his heart’s content at the Bark Park. The Amelia Earhart Park has something to offer every member of your family.
Shark Valley Loop
Clocking in at just under 16 miles, this lightly trafficked loop in the Everglades National Park is perfect for nature lovers. The paved trail provides a place for not just cyclists, joggers, and hikers but alligators as well. They often come up onto the trail to sunbathe so keep your eyes peeled for them! If you’re heading out during the warmer months make sure to apply sunscreen and bring plenty of water. The Observation Tower is a great place to stop for a break while you check out the scenery.
Oleta River State Park
The largest urban park in Florida, the Oleta River State Park offers plenty of activities for families. The park is best known for its miles and miles of off-road bicycling trails. We recommend sticking to novice level trails when the kiddos are tagging along. There are also 3 miles of paved trails available if you wish to have a smoother ride. Ready for a break? Try your hand at canoeing or kayaking or even a nap on the beach – we vote for napping.
Crandon Park
Crandon Park was a coconut plantation before the land was donated to the Miami-Dade County in 1940. The park offers several miles of paved biking trails. There are cabanas available to rent if you need a break from the Florida sun. Make sure to bring a camera to capture the gorgeous scenery and many species of animals you’re sure to see on your trip. The park houses many rare and beautiful plants and animals like the beach peanut, the mangrove snapper and parrotfish.
Bill Baggs State Park
This park has a paved bike path running about 1.5 miles as well as many unpaved service roads that are open to cyclists of all levels. The park is completely flat, so its perfect for those just trying out their new bike trailers or older kiddos ready to ride next to mom or dad. While you’re in the park make sure to visit the historic lighthouse built in 1825. You can even take a guided tour of the oldest standing structure in Miami-Dade County. Stay for lunch or dinner at one of the park’s restaurants or pack a lunch to enjoy an open-air picnic after your ride.
South Beach
This trail, also known as the Atlantic Greenway, meanders through South Beach for just over 4 miles. The paved trail is surrounded by palm trees and runs close to the Atlantic Ocean. Interesting sculptures, rocks, and businesses line the urban trail. Use this map to plan your route, and don’t forget your bike baskets as you’re sure to find something to bring home from the many shops along the way. Once the trail turns into the Miami Beach Boardwalk, bicycling is prohibited, so keep an eye out for those signs once you’re past Central South Beach.
No matter what your reason for getting out of the house and into the sunshine, you can’t go wrong by visiting a bike trail near Miami. Providing exercise, entertainment, and family bonding time, cycling has benefits for every family member.
