15 Best Bike Trails in Miami-Dade County

There is no shortage of activities to keep yourself entertained in the Miami-Dade area. Whether you’re a local or a native, Miami and the surrounding county has something for you to enjoy. If you’re looking for the beach, the art scene, or a great dinner, Miami has it all. For those looking to take a breather from the fast-paced lifestyle, a bike ride can be a great way to do so. The Miami-Dade area offers a tremendous selection of bike paths and trails for riders of all skill levels.

Trails through the Everglades or paths right along the beach are just some that you’ll encounter. You’ll find urban trails that give you an up-close look at parts of the city, while more remote paths envelop you in the area’s beautiful natural ecosystem. Whatever type of bike adventure you’re looking for, Miami-Dade has it all. Check out our list of the 15 best bike paths/trails for you to enjoy:

South Pointe Park – Miami Beach

South Pointe Park is one of the most photogenic and beautiful places to ride. You’ll get panoramic views of the sparkling Atlantic Ocean complimented by plenty of palm trees. With easy beach access and plenty of places to eat, you can park your bike and enjoy the surroundings. The park is a popular spot for tourists but is plenty spacious enough to let you get a comfortable, pleasant bike ride. You can either bring your own two wheels or rent some from one of the on-site rental shacks.

Shark Valley Trail – The Everglades

If you’re looking for sharks (not sure why you’re doing that) this is not the place. If you’re looking for a great place to ride a bike, then the Shark Valley Trail is a perfect destination. A 15-mile paved road offers plenty of distance for bikers of all skill levels. Shark Valley is situated right in the heart of the Everglades National Park. You’ll pedal through tall sawgrass and tropical greenery during your ride on this scenic trail. You may even run into one of the native inhabitants: the alligator. Make a stop at the observation tower to get a bird’s eye view of even more wildlife like herons, deer, turtles, and more! This trail is perfect for your next Instagram post and will be a delight to ride.

Old Cutler Trail

Old Cutler Trail offers a free paved bike path that lets you see some of the beautiful neighborhoods and trees of Old Cutler Road. You’ll ride under arching Banyan trees that give the path a fantastical sense of coming right from a Tolkien novel. You’ll also be riding through and get to see some of the iconic Coral Gables neighborhood. Beautiful 1920s architectural features stand out among lush green gardens and trees. Mediterranean style homes complete the playful and quirky atmosphere of this area. While you’re on the trail, you can stop for a break at Matheson Hammock Park or the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden.

Biscayne Trail

When you finish your ride on the Old Cutler Trail, feel free to hop right onto the Biscayne Trail. A convenient junction between the two links the start of the Biscayne Trail to the end of the Old Cutler. Biscayne is just about three miles long and offers an open-sky experience. You’ll want to pack plenty of sunscreen and stay hydrated on hot, sunny Florida days. You’ll ride through some more neighborhoods as you go southward down the trail. Then, in the end, you will arrive at the Black Point Park & Marina where the bright blue waters of Biscayne Bay will greet you. A large picnic pavilion and beautiful views will cap off a great ride.

Black Creek Trail

If you still haven’t satisfied your riding appetite, you’re in luck. The Black Creek Trail connects to the end of the Biscayne Trail to complete this trifecta. At almost nine miles long, you’ll hopefully be able to finish out that ride and feel the burn. It runs across Fleming Island (a false island created by rivers) and passes by Moccasin Slough Park. The 225-acre wildlife reserve is home to alligators, bald eagles, and plenty of species of birds. Taking a break from your ride to check it out won’t disappoint.

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park

Another great place to cycle in the Biscayne area of Miami-Dade is the Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park. Here you will find roughly 1.5 miles of unpaved service roads which are perfect for easy riding. Since the terrain is completely flat, this is a great place to go for riders of all skill and endurance levels. By changing which of the paths you ride on you can take loops around the park and record a solid ride. While you’re there, check out the oldest structure in Miami: Cape Florida Lighthouse. This historic structure was built in 1825 and reconstructed in 1846. It is a must-see attraction if you decide to go for a bike ride in the park. You’ll also find two restaurants and a place to rent bikes if you prefer not to bring your own.

Virginia Key Mountain Bike Trail

Taking a bit of a turn from the easier, flatter trails we’ve mentioned thus far, Virginia Key offers a challenge to those looking for adventure. A joint venture between volunteers from the Virginia Key Bike Club and the City of Miami, Virginia Key trail was built by hand to offer a great time to riders of all ages. Three trails, beginner, intermediate, and advanced offer riders a great way to bike surrounded by nature. Although in the heart of Miami, you can have the thrill of mountain biking.

Crandon Park

Crandon Park is a beautiful piece of land in Miami, often considered one of the city’s greatest hidden gems. It was originally a donation to the county in 1940 on the one condition that it was made into a public park. Now, you can enjoy miles of flat, cement bike paths along with many other amenities. When you’re ready for a break, check out the nature center, cabana rentals, or kayaking. Since you’re right next to the beautiful beach of Biscayne Bay, you could also choose to chill out by the Atlantic waves. Crandon Park is a great path for taking a casual ride while also enjoying some of the great things about Miami-Dade area.

Rickenbacker Causeway

This bike path runs directly on the Rickenbacker Causeway as a designated “green” bike lane right on the road. The path is a common training place for road racers, mountain bikers, and also casual riders. At nearly 9 miles, it provides a nice long ride and offers beautiful views of Biscayne Bay, its beaches, and palm trees. Oh, and at the end, you’ll be right in Crandon Park to enjoy the many amenities listed above.

Oleta River State Park

For another mountain biking outing, Oleta River State Park offers great trails for both experienced and beginner cyclists. In total, there are 10 miles of mountain bike trails in the park with 4 miles of novice trails, 3 miles of paved trail, along with 2 miles of trail for more experienced riders. Riding through the trees and on the hilly dirt path is sure to make for a wonderful ride. Bring your own bike or feel free to rent one that’s better suited for the terrain at the on-site rental shop. Since most of the trail is shaded by trees, this is a great option to temporarily escape from the heat.

Commodore Trail

If you’re looking for a bike path and want plenty to see and do along the way, then Commodore Trail is perfect for you. The path itself is a 5-mile paved route that takes you along the southern side of Miami. During your ride, you’ll pass the Alice Wainwright Park, Museum of Science/Planetarium, Vizcaya Museum, and many other charming parks. The southern end of the trail is conveniently linked to Old Cutler Trail should you wish to continue your journey. Oh, and at the northern end, you’ll find a connection to the Rickenbacker Trail that takes you to Key Biscayne.

Amelia Earhart Park

We’ve mentioned a few mountain biking trails already, but Amelia Earhart Park offers some of the best. With over 8 miles of unpaved trails, the park is a great place to ride and train. It also features some great jumps for more advanced riders. When you’re done riding, feel free to stay and enjoy the beautiful atmosphere of this park, named after Amelia Earhart, the first female aviator to fly solo over the Atlantic Ocean.

Southern Glades Trail

For a great bike ride with a good chance at spotting some wildlife, the Southern Glades Trail answers the call. Unlike the Shark Valley Trail which is paved, this trail is 13 miles of gravel. This offers a different riding feel and the pleasant crunch of gravel under your tires. Since this trail runs along the eastern border of Everglades National Park, you’ll likely see some of the native wildlife. Alligators, snakes, deer, and many species of birds are just some of the animals you might spot. Note that there are no restrooms along the way, so take a bathroom break before getting on the trail.

Atlantic Greenway (South Beach Trail)

This trail weaves itself right through one of Florida’s most popular destinations: South Beach. Famous in song and screen, South Beach has fun in the sun for everyone. While this is a shorter trail, it offers a chance to ride more casually than for a workout. With popular bars and shops, you’ll want to get off your bike more than you’re on it. Although, the passing views of the blue Atlantic and palm tree-lined path might just convince you to keep riding.

Snake Trail

Last but certainly not least is Snake Trail. This three-mile, paved road trail is free for anyone with a bike. It begins in a shopping area in North Miami Beach. Along with its course, it transitions into a residential area and then ends back in another shopping area in the Miami Gardens. There are plenty of parks to stop at on the way for a breather if you need a break from this enjoyable ride. This trail serves as a popular transportation path as many schools and workplaces are located right next to it.