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Print Friendly MapCedar Key Railroad Trestle Nature Trail is on a small island off the coast of northwestern Florida about 60 miles from Gainsville, the nearest big city. The town of Cedar Key itself, with fewer than 1,000 residents, is a charming place with many historical buildings and a relaxed vibe.
The trail follows the rail line that once ran from Fernandia Beach to Cedar Key from 1861 to 1932. Though it's quite short (only 1,700 feet), the rail-trail offers walkers a pleasant, natural escape with native vegetation on all sides flush with birds and wildlife. At trail's end, a few old trestle posts poke up through the shallow bay, remnants of a bridge that once carried trains across the water.
Note that bicycles are not permitted on the path, but would not be well-suited with the trail's sandy surface in any case.
From State Road 24 southbound (approaching Cedar Key), turn onto Grove Road; a small parking area is immediately on the right at the trailhead.
Parking for about 3 cars. After walking 5 plus miles on a downtown history walk, discovered this trail.Very short but only remaining part of the Florida railroad which ran from Fernandia Beach (on the east coast) to Cedar Key (on west coast) This railroad ran from 1861-1932. If you like railroads and history it’s a must do.
About zero parking. You can fit 2 motorcycles there if you are lucky. The "trail" is very narrow (about 2 or 3 feet) with drop offs on either side from the raised bed. It's shady, but when you get to the end, it's exactly as described...a couple of remaining wooden pylons sticking up. Nothing really here to see. Better off going around the corner and checking out the boardwalk on the cemetary walk.
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