Running 34 paved miles from St. Petersburg to Tarpon Springs, the Pinellas Trail connects numerous county parks, communities, and coastal areas. It follows an abandoned CSX railroad right-of-way and has numerous access points with parking (see website listed below for info.) The photo below shows the trail through Tarpon Springs as it nears its northern terminus by the Anclote River.
A short detour to the sponge docks in Tarpon Springs will reward you with a fine meal at one of the many Greek Restaurants in the area, as we did. Sponge diving began in 1905 when a Greek immigrant began the practice, and today this area is still famous for its sponges, its Greek Community, and its cuisine.
Much of the trail has a wide segment for both directions of bike travel and a narrower segment for walkers/joggers. In-line skaters are also welcome to use the trail. Some road crossings have viaducts or bridges to allow safe uninterrupted travel to users. Other road crossings are protected by either traffic signals or four-way stop signs.
An interesting stop is to view the Suncoast Primate Sanctuary just south of Tarpon Springs. Its cages face the trail about 20 feet from the trail in a copse of pine trees on the west side of the trail.
A high overpass takes riders over Highway 19 in Ozona, giving good views of Smith Bayou.
For more info and downloadable trail maps, go to Guide to the Pinellas Trail
No comments:
Post a Comment