As spring approaches with its ideal temperatures, it’s the perfect time of year to explore the great outdoors in Ocala/Marion County, Florida. Whether you prefer to be a spectator or a participant, Ocala/Marion County has everything thing you need to have an energetic and adrenaline filled adventure.
The Santos Fat Tire Festival and Bike Expo is one of the largest gatherings of cycling enthusiasts in the Southeast region. This three day outdoor event happens March 9th th through March 11and is open to the public. With over 50 vendor booths available to attendees, visitors have the opportunity to interact with mountain and road bike manufacturers, see the latest bike accessories and check out the newest clothing styles and gear available in the market today. Professional cyclists will host clinics for attendees wanting to brush up on their skills before heading out on one of the popular Santos bike trails.
The Santos Mountain Bike Trails are the most visited in Ocala/Marion County and are considered the best within the destination. Named as an International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) Bronze-level ride center, the Santos Trails are one of only six in the U.S. and are recognized as a large scale mountain biking facility. The trailhead offers more than 60 miles of off-road area; bike trails and obstacles fill the entire ground, accommodating bicycling skill levels from beginner to expert. Mountain bike enthusiasts can access the Santos Trailhead Mountain Biking trails between Ocala and Belleview at 3080 SE 80th Street in Ocala, Florida.
If maintaining a healthy lifestyle and keeping yourself in peak condition is important to you, the HITS Triathlon Carney Island Parkwill test your strength and endurance against the backdrop of the tranquil . Named as an Editor’s Pick for one of the best triathlons by Triathlete Magazine, this annual race is the third stop among the series and has proven year after year to be the most popular.
While many participants have been training for years, the HITS Triathlon series encourages those starting out to take part in the novice participatory triathlon – which will feature a 100 meter swim, 3 mile bike ride and a 1 mile run designed for first timers trying to become actively involved. The loop-layout design allows for families and spectators to line the course on March 31st to cheer on athletes as they make their way through the lush landscapes and lake views.
Not ready to make the leap into full-fledged triathlons but committed to staying active while visiting? If peddling your way through city streets that transform into country roads is more your speed, the Ride For The Arts Gran Fondo happening on April 21st is a must experience event in Ocala/Marion County. The Marion Cultural Alliance hosts this annual event as a fundraiser to support the arts and cultural community, as well as an opportunity to promote a healthy lifestyle. This cycling event offers a ride for every level, including an escorted ride for kids and families wishing to participate. Serious cyclers will enjoy the traditional elements of starting en masse within the city limits and venturing to quiet, scenic routes that allows for the speed and agility of the sport to take shape. The bike route offers unparalleled views of the farm land for which the destination is known, including oak lined roads that provide shade, rolling hills and horses in open pastures.
Whether you are hitting the trails, cycling through scenic roads or training to compete in an endurance challenge, Ocala/Marion County has the activities to keep you moving. With a multitude of outdoor activities and sporting events unique to the destination, visitors can immerse themselves in the active Florida lifestyle that provides endless hours of fun for visitors.
About: Outdoor adventures abound. Ocala/Marion County offers countless opportunities to connect with nature and relax in a classic Florida destination. Home to the Ocala National Forest, the second largest national forest in the state, as well as historic Silver Springs. This unique destination is ideal for both leisure and business travelers who seek authentic outdoor experiences. Known as the Horse Capital of the World™ with more than 700 horse farms, the County boasts a legacy of breeding and training world champion thoroughbreds. Centrally located less than two hours from Orlando, Daytona Beach and Tampa, Ocala/Marion County is a must-stop when visiting Central Florida. For more information on Ocala/Marion County, visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and Twitter, or call toll-free 1.888.FL.OCALA.
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