Road trip to Florida....What to do and where to train?

Triathlon Forum
1

I am taking a week long trip with my girlfriend to Tallahassee and possibly Jacksonville for a day.

Does anyone from around there know of any good places to swim, bike or run?

Also, I imagine I will be riding alone, should I bring my road bike or get some saddle time on my tri bike?

Any opinions would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

2

I grew up at Jax Beach so I’m familiar with that area. I’m sure its changed a lot over the years. Jax covers a huge area though. I’d contact a local bike shop and join one of their group rides. They’ll know all the best roads, etc. I ride with a neighbor and I swear he knows where every restroom is within 20 miles. I wouldn’t ride alone if I didn’t have to.

3

I will be sure to do that.

My road bike will leave more space in the car anyway

4

We have led the nation for 3 straight years in auto/cyclist fatalities. Great place to get killed so keep your head on a swivel. I ride enclosed paths or indoors only now, Florida is absolutely insane b/c vacationers with their heads in the clouds and the octogenarians with one foot in the grave already. BE CAREFUL!

5

For Tally, there’s the St. Mark’s rails to trails project south of town:

http://www.dep.state.fl.us/gwt/guide/regions/panhandleeast/trails/tallahassee_stmarks.htm

From a few yelp reviews, sounds like a tri bike would work there.

6

For swimming you’ve got open water and pool choices in Tally. Check out Maclay State Park’s Lake Hall (watch for gators). The park’s a solid place to run too. The surrounding area actually has hills (shocking for FLA). Trousdell pool has a long course set up. Check out the FSU Triathletes site. They can offer insight too. The St. Mark’s trail is flat & you can turn off for some nice rides (go to the lighthouse).

Enjoy the heat AND humidity.

7

Swim anywhere do not worry about the alligators. They are more afraid of you then you are of them.
Don’t follow that advice and ad in pink text

8

If you come to the Jax area, we have a bunch of group rides, take a look at www.velobrew.com for a decent list. Tallahassee has some regular rides and good routes, Google Higher Ground (I think that’s the shop name) and the FSU Cycling team for contacts. I know Jack Tomassetti, a local kid who’s president of FSU’s cycling team, is apparently in Tally for the summer.

9

I live in st. augustine. plenty of good riding here. PM me and I will send you links to rides and group rides. let me know where you are staying and distances you are looking for I will send you all kinds of good stuff