Tricycle's Hidden Gem: An Underappreciated Trail Off the Beaten Path

Overview

Tricycle's Hidden Gem is a semi-technical cross-country (XC) trail on the outskirts of Dunellon, Florida, often overlooked due to its remote location in the western extremity of the Santos Trail system. For riders seeking solitude, wildlife, and a creatively designed route that utilizes the topography of old canal diggings, this 2-mile point-to-point trail serves as an unexpected delight.

Key Characteristics

• Terrain: Crafted on and around a ridgeline of historical canal diggings, it's an inviting landscape for elevation changes and off-camber sections.
• Difficulty: Rated as an intermediate trail, it maintains the interest of seasoned riders while being accessible for ambitious beginners.
• Flow: The trail is characterized by its rhythmical elevation shifts along the ridge, providing a fun and flowy experience.
• Wildlife: A biodiverse area with frequent sightings of deer, armadillos, and wild pigs.
• Accessibility: 3.8 miles west of SR 200 on Tricycle trail, at the far western edge of the Santos network.

What Makes It Unique

Creative Use of Topography

The undulating terrain of old canal diggings offers an assortment of natural features. Off-camber sections and hilly ridgelines make for an up-and-down, roller-coaster-esque ride that adds a unique flair.

Wildlife and Solitude

One of the advantages of its remote location is the frequent wildlife encounters. The trail offers the serenity of nature, accentuated by the frequent sightings of deer, armadillos, and even wild pigs.

Newbie-Friendly Yet Challenging

While designed as an intermediate trail, even riders new to mountain biking find it accessible, especially if they have previous experience in other biking disciplines like BMX.

Suggestions and Tips

• Momentum: Keep the pace rolling, especially on the ridgeline, to tackle the undulating terrain with ease.
• Sand Patches: Be cautious of areas that may become sandy, affecting your grip and control.
• Wild Pigs: Due to the presence of wild pigs, some sections may get torn up. A cautious approach is recommended.

How to Get There

To access Tricycle's Hidden Gem, travel 3.8 miles west of SR 200 on the Tricycle Trail. It sits in quiet seclusion, offering a different kind of thrill far from the bustle of more central Santos trails.In summary, Tricycle's Hidden Gem is more than deserving of its name—a less frequented trail perfect for those seeking both a technical challenge and the tranquility of a remote location. It offers a bit of everything: challenging terrain, abundant wildlife, and the peace that comes with a trail less traveled.