Ocala National Forest is one of three National Forests in Florida. Spanning 385,000 acres, Ocala is the second largest National Forest in Florida. Exploring Ocala National Forest can be done in many ways such as hiking, boating, horseback, OHV, ATV, and street-legal vehicles. Ocala National Forest is great for anyone looking to hunt, camp, watch wildlife, visit a shooting range, or even see the Naval Bombing Range!
National Forest Road 50 is a great scenic trail that runs the entire length east and west through Ocala National Forest. FR50 also connects to Hopkins Prairie Campground and Lake George hiking trail. FR50 will have a few high spots overlooking the forest. Anyone looking to park and unload ORV will also appreciate the Hopkins ORV right next to Hopkins Prairie lake!
Starting at the intersection of NE 79th Place and FL-19, take FL-19 south for a little over a mile. On the east side of FL-19 there will be a sign for NE77th street, turn here. Once the road turns from asphalt to dirt, FR50 begins.
Trail is nice and easy. Seems to be well maintained and has many side trails you can take. I managed to take one side trail that had many water pits. I was visiting from California and would love to go back and hit some of the trails with my own vehicle. Just happened to rent a Gladiator and took a scenic route.
Jeff is an outdoor enthusiast located in the central Florida area. He enjoys exploring Florida's less traveled roads, visiting historic sites, and getting away from the city. While on trails Jeff is a huge supporter of tread lightly and believes in, "take out what you take in."
A love for vehicles has recently brought Jeff to the world of off-roading. He is still new to the game but is enthusiastic about learning new techniques, vehicles, equipment, technology, and bringing all together to contribute to TrailsOffoad.