Photo courtesy of Florida State Parks

Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail

Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail

Fee: No entry fee

Hours: Sunrise to sunset daily

Phone: (352) 466-3397

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Introduction

The Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail represents an exceptional example of Florida's Rails-to-Trails conservation efforts, transforming historic transportation infrastructure into a vibrant corridor for outdoor recreation, ecological appreciation, and community connectivity.

Background

A premier paved rail-trail spanning 16 miles between Gainesville and Hawthorne, offering a comprehensive recreational experience through Florida's diverse ecological zones. The trail provides a smooth, accessible pathway for cyclists, hikers, and inline skaters, traversing through varied landscapes including hardwood hammocks, pine flatwoods, and open agricultural areas.

History

Originally constructed as a railway line in the late 19th century, the corridor was transformed into a multi-use recreational trail in the 1990s. The trail follows the historic railroad route that once connected Gainesville and Hawthorne, serving as a crucial transportation link for local agricultural and timber industries before being repurposed for public recreation.

Address: Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail, Florida, USAGet Directions

Total Trail Length: 16 miles

Fees: No entry fee

Hours: Sunrise to sunset daily

Phone: (352) 466-3397

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Amenities

Water fountains

Bike repair station

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Points of Interest

Historic railroad corridor preservation
Diverse ecological transitions
Significant wildlife habitat corridor
Cross-section of North Central Florida landscapes
Accessible urban and rural trail connections
Native flora and fauna observation opportunities

Activity Related Gear

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Related Links

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https://gmatclub.com/forum/florida-s-gainesville-hawthorne-state-trail-a-mixed-use-147921.html

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https://www.waze.com/live-map/directions/us/fl/gainesville/gainesville-hawthorne-trailhead-parking

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https://floridahikes.com/gainesville-hawthorne-trail/

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https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/florida/gainesville-hawthorne-state-trail

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https://www.traillink.com/trail/gainesville-hawthorne-state-park-trail/

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https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g34242-d7374639-Reviews-Gainesville_Hawthorne_State_Trail-Gainesville_Florida.html

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https://www.100floridatrails.com/gainesville_hawthorne_trail.htm

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https://www.visitgainesville.com/things-to-do/attractions/gainesville-hawthorne-state-trail/

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https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/gainesville-hawthorne-state-trail

Last Updated about 1 month ago

Park and Trail conditions and information may change due to weather, seasons, and other factors. Always check Offical Sources for the most up-to-date information before visiting.

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