The Best Places to Ride A Motorcycle in Hernando County, FL
Topics: motorcycle accident, Brooksville, Hernando County
Hernando County, Florida, is comprised of the Brooksville, Spring Hill, Weeki Wachee and Ridge Manor areas. Though it is mainly suburban, there are many different activities to enjoy in your leisure time. If you are a motorcycle driver, this article is for you. It is not necessary to travel a great distance from home, since there are places in Hernando County where you can enjoy your motorcycle.
One popular place for motorcycle drivers to meet and mingle in Hernando County is at the Chick-Fil-A on Cortez Boulevard in Spring Hill. This location hosts a car show every Thursday night; motorcyclists typically gather at approximately 7:00 PM.
Croom Motorcycle Area
If you are interested in racing or practicing off-road, a great place to bring your motorcycle is the Croom Motorcycle Area, located at 15019 Broad Street in Brooksville. It is near the intersection of State Road 50 and Interstate 75. The Croom Motorcycle Area consists of 2600 acres containing miles of trails and picnic areas with grills. The site is a part of the Withlacoochee State Forest, which the World Wildlife Fund has declared one of the ten coolest places in North America. It is the only state property that Florida has dedicated for use by ATV and motorcycle riders.
Trails Within The Park
Within the park there are several favored areas to ride; though there are trails throughout the park, they are not always easy to navigate and it can be challenging to find an easy route. “The Pit,” or as it is officially known, Sand Hill, is excellent for high-speed riding, as it is a large, open area. When many riders are using The Pit during the dry months, it can get very dusty. It is wise to wear goggles to protect your eyes. In the rainy months of the year, more ruts are created in the softer ground, which results in a more exciting ride. Day Use Area #2 features a hill, a small lake, Laurain Gulch and the Croom Cliffs; beware of steep drops and other hazards.
Croom Motorcycle Area Fees
The fees for use of the Croom Motorcycle Area are $65 each year per ATV or motorcycle. A permit will be issued for each vehicle and must be displayed on the front of the motorcycle or ATV; violation will subject you to expulsion from the trails. The fee must be paid at the gate; cash and travelers' checks are accepted. The permit is valid from July through June and is prorated if purchased after the beginning of the season. There are requirements to be met in order to have a permit issued, applying mainly to ATVs. The vehicle must have 3 or 4 tires and a seat designed to be straddled by the rider. The ATV must weigh less than 500 pounds in total, with a wheel base less than 55” and a total width less than 45”. Permits will be issued for motorcycles as well. Note that any vehicle that is not street legal must be towed into and out of the park.
If you've traveled to Hernando County and plan to stay, camping facilities are available. Fees are posted at the campground. Electrical hook-ups are available for an additional charge if you have an RV. Proper head gear is required, so be sure to bring your helmet. Pets, firearms and alcohol are prohibited.