(See Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Park for more information.)
Size
1,500 acres
About the Property
This extremely popular trail attracts local cyclists, as well as those from outlying counties. The single-track woods trail has a natural surface and shady canopy. The 20-mile main trail and 15 miles of side trails traverse the Trout Creek, Morris Bridge and Flatwoods areas. The Morris Bridge Bicycle Area is among Florida’s earliest mountain bike trails.
Habitats along the trail vary from cypress swamp, hardwood floodplain forest, upland hardwood hammocks, pine flatwoods, oak scrub, dry prairie, wet prairie and lakes.
Navigation
Trail maps are available at kiosks in parking areas or by calling the Hillsborough County Parks, Recreation and Conservation Department. The main trail is marked with wooden posts numbered 1 to 47. Numbered locations are indicated on the map.
Help
If you need assistance on-site, locate a park ranger or a volunteer trail steward. Stewards are identified by numbered placards on the front of their bikes. On weekends, rangers and stewards monitor FRS radio channel 1, code 0 for visitors carrying hand-held radios who need emergency help.
Limited Access Areas
- In Morris Bridge Bicycle Area, bicycles must remain north of Cow House Creek to avoid eroding creek bed and entering Jefferson Equestrian Area. Observe posted signs.
- Some trails are seasonal and subject to temporary closure during rainy season. Trails may also be closed for maintenance or restoration. Observe posted signs.
- Because this is a flood detention area, the dam on the Hillsborough River at Trout Creek Park is occasionally shut. Parks are subject to closure when the area impounds water.
Access and Parking
- The Wilderness Loop Trail is located east of I-75, south of New Tampa.
- Five major access points offer parking. Accessible from Morris Bridge Road are Trout Creek Park, Hole-in-the-Fence trailhead, Morris Bridge Park and Flatwoods Park. The other entrance is on Bruce B. Downs Boulevard.
- Free admission, but donations to “iron ranger” appreciated. All donations go toward park improvements.
Hours of Operation
- Daily from sunrise to sunset.
- Be aware that gate over dam at Trout Creek Park closes 15 minutes earlier than other park gates. Plan accordingly.
Restrooms, Water and Other Amenities
Restrooms, water fountains, bike washes and pay phones provided at Trout Creek, Morris Bridge and Flatwoods parks.
Pets
Must be on leash no more than 6 feet in length.
Recreational Opportunities
Bicycling
- Riders required to stay on marked trails.
- Watch for hikers and runners. Always yield the trail to pedestrians.
- Always wear helmet. Florida law requires bicyclists under 16 to wear helmets.
- Use proper trail etiquette on and off pavement. Make encounters with others pleasant. Warn others when passing from behind. When stopping, move completely off trail. Use caution at blind corners and make your presence known. Avoid muddy trails. Do not skid.
- Rules of the trail: ride on open trails only, leave no trace, control your bicycle, always yield the trail, never scare animals, and plan ahead.
Hiking
- Watch for uneven terrain and exposed roots.
- Beware of fast-moving bicycles. Use extra caution when approaching blind corners.
Picnic Facilities
Picnic tables available at Trout Creek Park, the Hole-in-the-Fence trailhead, Morris Bridge Park and various locations in Flatwoods Park.
For More Information
- Flatwoods Park, (813) 987-6211
- Hillsborough County Parks, Recreation and Conservation Department, (813) 975-2160
