Santos Trail System
Ocala, FL
Santos stands out for receiving IMBA's first Epic designation for an entire trail system. The Santos riding area, about an hour northwest of Orlando, lies within the boundaries of Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway. Once a hotspot for unauthorized stunts and unapproved trails, Santos has emerged as a model trail system, with flowing singletrack, bombproof wooden structures, a bike skills park with progressive challenges and jaw-dropping technical features at the Vortex quarry.
In addition to drawing the top riders in the region, Santos is the perfect place for beginner or intermediate riders to hone their technical skills. Progression areas let you try the small stuff before moving up. And with a new campground, you can sleep tight knowing your favorite trail or jump is no more than a few miles away.
Location: Just outside Ocala, Florida, approximately one hour northwest of Orlando.
Length: More than 30 miles of singletrack, a two-mile freeride trail, dirt jumps, a pump track and seven big drops (including a massive 20-footer).
Climbing: Relatively flat, though sandy Florida terrain can make even small climbs a challenge.
Terrain: Santos has it all: cross-country singletrack, freeride trails, dirt jumps, pump track, wall rides and drops.
Shop: Santos Trailhead Bike Shop
Notes: The trailhead currently has potable water, a restroom, a fenced equestrian staging area, 80 paved parking spots, and three picnic pavilions and campsites.
Directions: Off 1-75 take exit 67 (Don Garlits Museum), head east on 484 and take 475 north then turn east onto 80th. The Santos trailhead parking lot and facilities are on the right just before you get to 441.
Local Club: Visit the Ocala Mountain Bike Association website.
