The East Coast Greenway threads it way across nearly 600 miles in Florida. From Georgia, the Greenway enters the state at Fernandina Beach, then makes its way through 13 counties before reaching Key West, the southernmost mainland point of the United States. Travel is largely along the coast through seaside villages, America’s earliest historic sites, vast nature preserves, and major cities that include Jacksonville and Miami.
Much of the Greenway through Florida is on side path that runs along Highway A1A. It concludes with the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail, which hops from island to island for 106 miles (more than half of which is completed trail).
Note: To cross between Georgia and Florida across the St. John's River, as an alternative to riding Route 17, touring cyclists can call Camden Bicycle Center, 912-576-9696, for an on-road "ferry" (shopping at the bike store encouraged).
Note: Starting Jan. 5, 2021, the St. Johns River Ferry has announced that it will suspend service for 8 weeks due to regular maintenance. Click for more details.
Weather tips:
- When traveling in spring and summer: Please check www.weather.gov for heat warnings and heat advisories, which can be common early in the season. Also exercise caution if a multi-day heat wave is occurring.
- Be prepared: Florida's hurricane season runs June to November.
- When traveling in spring and fall: Confirm King Tide dates as these occur in spring and fall. Be aware that the highest tides in the southeast part of the region happen in fall, leading to major flooding which impacts portions of the route.
Traveling by train?
Quick tips when using Amtrak with your bike: Do your research in advance; each train line features different bike rack equipment and loading procedures. Check Amtrak for the latest and when in doubt: call the station if you have questions. Click for more: https://www.amtrak.com/bike
