Sometimes Near is So Far - Bicycling in Tampa

Sometimes your own backyard is overlooked.  When I was driving to Clearwater, Florida, to play pickleball last year, I watched the progress of a "trail" bridge being built.  It turned out great!

In this photo, you can see the new bridge on the left and the vehicle bridge(s) on the right.   We rode on a Sunday morning thinking that the traffic would be a bit lighter, and I think it was - but not much.

We parked at Ben T Davis Beach, which is right past the Tampa International Airport. 




We rode a little over 6 miles directly west toward Clearwater, Florida.  The best part of the trail is that it is always right besdie the water. 

The least best part of the trail is that it is sandwiched between the water and the 4 lane highway. 

The second best part of the trail is that you get to climb up and go down a hill!!!!  Well, not so fast . . .   In order to find a hill in the Tampa area, you have to have a bridge.  Here's the downhill part looking toward Clearwater.

Coming back, you get another hill!!!   Wheee!


This is looking to the east where you can see the City of Tampa buildings in the background. 

The total mileage?  Almost 13 miles.  Just about right for a Sunday ride.

Plus, it's in our own backyard!