The Cape Haze Pioneer Trail is an 8-mile (13 km) rail trail in Charlotte County, Florida on the Cape Haze peninsula running from western Port Charlotte to Placida. A vast majority of the trail runs along the right of way of the former Charlotte Harbor and Northern Railway.
On November 20, 1999, a ribbon was cut to officially open the first phase of the Cape Haze Pioneer Trail, located along the historical Charlotte Harbor & Northern Railroad easement parallel to County Road 771/Gasparilla Road on the Cape Haze peninsula in Charlotte County. The recreational trail was the brainchild of Ann Mercer, and the north trailhead is dedicated to Dr. Robert D. and Ann Mercer. About 8.5 miles in length today, the Cape Haze Pioneer Trail is managed by Charlotte County Community Services.
The Cape Haze Pioneer Trail, also known as the “Pioneer Trail,” is a linear park and bike path that runs from Southport to Palm Beach and passes through the towns of Lake Park and Boca Grande. It was created in 2001 and has been named the #1 Bike Path in Florida and the #2 Bike Path in America.
Cape Haze Pioneer Trail
1688 Gasparilla Road, Rotonda, FL 33946
941.681.3742
The trail begins at the north end of Southport and runs south for about 9 miles past the beautiful beaches and marinas of Southport, North Port, Fort Myers, Boca Grande, and Boca Grande Beach. The trail includes over 16 bridges, 14 road crossings, and 2 railroads. The trail also features over 200 acres of parks, woodlands, wetlands, and lakes. The trail also connects to the Boca Grande Causeway and the Charlotte Harbor Waterway, offering access to a variety of water activities such as kayaking, fishing, boating, and swimming. The trail also serves as a great recreational resource for hikers and walkers.
If you are looking for a fun day trip for a bike ride or hiking adventure, then the Cape Haze Pioneer Trail is a must-see destination! This trail is a perfect way to enjoy the beautiful Florida climate and enjoy some of the natural surroundings without having to drive anywhere!
Cape Haze Pioneer Trail: Cape Haze Pioneer Trail is a unique multi-use trail system that provides easy access for biking, walking and fishing. The trail is located between the Boca Grande Causeway and Coral Creek Airport and connects Charlotte Harbor to Palm Beach County. It is the only paved trail connecting these two barrier islands and is part of the Central Florida Greenway. In addition to providing a unique recreation opportunity, the Cape Haze Pioneer Trail also serves as a major transportation corridor and is home to over 250 species of birds.
The Cape Haze Pioneer Trail in Charlotte Harbor, FL is a unique trail which is also a great way to get out and explore the area. The trail begins at the Charlotte Harbor Airport and takes you through the Cape Haze area. The trail is approximately 19 miles long and connects to several other trails. There is a bicycle bridge which can take you over Boca Grande Bay to the western side of the peninsula and to the southern part of the peninsula. There are also many paved routes along the trails and some have a designated bike lane. It is a safe place for biking for adults and children. The best time to ride the trail is when it is dry as it can be a lot of fun to go through the water. Bike riding is very popular in the area so keep in mind where you park your bike and how to lock it up. There are lots of places to eat and drink along the trail. Many of the restaurants have outside seating and offer a view of the bay. The trail runs past the Charlotte Harbor Airport, where you can take off on a plane or charter a boat. There are many other activities to do while riding the trail, like kayaking, fishing, or just enjoying the beautiful views.