Cady Way and Cross Seminole trails: the best easy bike ride near Orlando

What the trails are

The Cady Way Trail is a paved, multi-use path that runs for about six to seven miles from the east side of Orlando, near Baldwin Park and the Orlando Fashion Square area, north through the edge of Winter Park to the Seminole County line. There it connects to the Cross Seminole Trail, which continues for more than 20 miles through Winter Springs and Oviedo toward the Lake Mary area.

The surface is smooth asphalt, which makes it good for road bikes, hybrids, strollers, inline skates and runners alike. Mile markers and signs help you judge distance, and benches and small parks along the way give you places to rest.

Together they make one of the longest continuous paved rides near Orlando. The trails are wide, mostly flat and separated from traffic, with bridges over several major roads. They are part of a larger regional network that keeps growing, with long-term plans to connect trails across the state.

Where to start

The easiest starting point for most visitors is the Orlando end of the Cady Way Trail. There is parking at Cady Way Park near the trail's southern end, and Baldwin Park is nearby, with cafés and a lake loop for a warmup or cooldown.

If you want a shorter ride, start at a trailhead in Winter Springs or Oviedo and ride a section of the Cross Seminole Trail out and back. Winter Springs has a town center with restaurants near the trail, and Oviedo's downtown area has parks and places to eat.

A good half-day ride

1. Start at the Orlando end of the Cady Way Trail around 7 or 8 a.m., before the heat.
2. Ride north past neighborhoods, parks and over the trail bridges.
3. Cross into Seminole County and continue on the Cross Seminole Trail.
4. Stop in Winter Springs or Oviedo for lunch and a refill of water.
5. Ride back the same way, or arrange a pickup if you are tired or the weather turns.

A round trip from Orlando to Oviedo and back is roughly 25 to 30 miles, depending on where you turn around. For a shorter ride, go as far as the Seminole County line and back, which is a comfortable 12 to 14 miles.

When to go

Early morning is best all year. Summer afternoons are hot and stormy, with frequent lightning. Fall through spring has the most comfortable riding weather, and winter mornings can be cool enough for a light jacket.

Weekends are busy with local cyclists, runners and families, especially near trailheads. Weekdays are quieter. Some sections run through open areas with little shade, so plan water and sun protection carefully.

Tips and mistakes to avoid

• Bring more water than you think. Refill points are limited between towns, and summer heat drains you faster than you expect on a bike.
• Carry a spare tube or patch kit. Help can be a long walk away.
• Use lights and a bell. The trails are shared with walkers, runners and dog walkers.
• Watch for road crossings. Most major roads are bridged, but some smaller crossings still need care.
• Check for detours. Construction can close short sections, so look at the county's trail pages before you go.
• Do not ride into a storm. Lightning is a real danger on open trails. Take shelter and wait it out.

Renting a bike and getting there

Several bike shops around Winter Park, Baldwin Park and Oviedo rent bikes by the day or half day, including e-bikes, which make longer rides easier in the heat. Call ahead, especially on weekends. If you are staying near the theme parks, the trailhead is about 30 to 40 minutes away by car.

The trail is also a good way to see Winter Park at a slower pace. For more ways to get around without driving, read the guide to Orlando without a car.

For many visitors, a morning on these trails is a welcome change of pace from the theme parks: quiet, free and a chance to see the everyday side of Central Florida, from lakes and neighborhoods to small-town main streets.