Absolutely gorgeous bike trail! I'm not usually a big fan of road biking--after allJacksonville drivers... but the Baldwin Rail Trail is the perfect place for a peaceful, scenic ride. The views through the farmland are truly relaxing, and there's plenty of parking to make getting started a breeze. Everyone we encountered on the trail was courteous, making it an enjoyable experience from start to finish. The added bonus? Benches and bathrooms along the path! I can't wait to come back for another ride. read more

Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail-Trail - Hiking Near Me - Jacksonville, Florida

This was a nice paved trail that was easy to walk with my son's stroller and our dog. There was a crossing on a busy road where we had to stop to wait for traffic to go past or wait for someone to stop for us to cross. There were lots of people bicycling, walking, and walking dogs and strollers. There was one farm where there was goats, sheep, dogs, chickens, and ducks. We only walked for an hour, but the trail goes 14 miles on paved, well maintained trail. The gravel parking lot had a lot of cars compared to the number of people I saw on the trail. There is a dual bathroom on the other side of the parking lot and maps of the trail near the trailhead start. read more

Wonderful trail that stretches from Jax's Westside to Baldwin. It's a little over 15 miles of paved trail. The best part about this trail is that it's mostly canopied - a tradition in the South that keeps us cooler during the hot days of summer. Trees on both sides of the trail provide excellent shade. There's lots of bike traffic on the weekends - but most are courteous - a few need to understand they're not competing in the Tour de France and learn how to share the trail. I come to hike & jog. It's great to see so many enjoying this wonderful amenity that we've been blessed with! read more

Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail-Trail - Trailhead near Camp Milton - Hiking Near Me - Jacksonville, Florida

I've been here multiple times, but here is my initial review. Jacksonville Baldwin Rail Trail is basically old railroad tracks that has been paved, creating a very long, straight, stretch of paved road that reaches up to 15 miles one way (close to 30 miles combined).   This place makes it ideal for bike riding, walking, jogging, running, roller blading, skating, etc...or whatever you want to do.   There are Mile Markers per each mile you pass and once you reach the halfway point, there is an accessible restroom and benches for you to rest until you are ready to go again. It is always well kept. Great views and nice scenery along the way.   I come here particularly for the biking aspect. What a great way to churn out 30 miles of cardio and exercise, while enjoying the nice view along the way. I have found that most road bikers tend to favor this place due to its simplicity and how safe it is (because you are not riding on the side of the road). It is not the mountain bike trails that I would prefer, but it is a perfect Option B for me.   I do want to warn you that through a part of your ride, you will pass a pig farm from afar, and the scent will be a bit shietty and unpleasant. So prep yourself and think & smell happy thoughts as you pass through this. Also note...along the way you will cross actual roads, so be sure to always practice safety and look both ways before crossing. read more

See all

So we only did the 1st mile of the trail, but it was amazing everyone who's walking there is normally polite and friendly. It's not overcrowded and I took my little one on his bike and he loved it. I would highly recommend it. read more

Excellent trail. Whether you are a hardcore cyclist or an occasional rider you will definitely appreciate this trail. What was once railroad tracks is now a paved trail for joggers, cyclists and walkers. The trail meanders through quiet farmland and rural backroads. Ride at breakneck speed or take your time and appreciate the flora and fauna that lines the canopied trail. There are lots of spots to pull off the trail for a quick water break but beware the state bird of Florida aka Mosquitoes. It doesn't take long for them to find you. Or just wear bug spray. Another thing to note is that the trail crosses a few public roads so if you are riding with small children make sure they stop and cross safely. The Baldwin Trail is a fine spot to enjoy a good walk, ride,run or even skate. Get out and check it out. read more

I've been coming to this trail weekly for six months. It began with my friend dragging me to the trail for a short ride. Once I learned that you can burn 400+ calories in a 1.5 hr ride i was convinced that this would be my weekly workout. The trail is great for lazy old me, mostly flat. You can see some wildlife such as wild turkey, birds & turtles. During the summer there were some beautiful Black-eyed Susans bright orange flowers & some purple flowers. Nature at its best. There are some nice spots for a picnic with tables at the 6 mile & 8 mile points heading west. The busiest time is Saturday morning till about noon. I've been riding for 6 months averaging about 16 to 18 miles each time. I've been going every Saturday until I had a bad fall. Alas I've had to stop for a month. I think I'll be back on a Saturday, hope it does not rain. If you like to ride the bike or walk, this is one of the best things about North Florida. With the pandemic this is one way to not feel so cooped up. Get out there, ride or walk at the trail. People are super friendly, You can experience nature at its best while burning calories & its free. read more

See all

Great idea. Would be better if there were some restaurants. Road length is 14 miles. Went with my thing daughter. Great idea by the railroads!!! read more

Great long paved trail. Pretty scenic with farms here and there with multiple stopping points to sit and relax with nature. Great place to take a bike ride, walk, run or hike. It's a nice hidden gem to get away from the busy roads and get in a little exercise especially when most of us are staying from home. read more

This is a really fun trail. If you are not a great cycler (14-18 miles per hour) bring snacks. There is a picnic area around mile 5. I go to the 15 miles mark and break for 20 minutes before riding back to the start. I've gone before as a single female rider and haven't had any issues. Please go before sunset because there are many people out there riding and running. I had phone service the whole time so I wasn't worried. Also there are plenty of veteran cyclists that will stop and help you if you run into a flat. read more

Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail-Trail - Hiking Near Me - Jacksonville, Florida

Loooong straight path. It's clean and has a bathroom around mile 3-4. Family friendly. Just pavement pounding is all I found. MTB trails I think I saw back in the woods but wasn't sure how to access em. read more

Amazing trail and perfect for kids and the whole family. It's 14.5 miles long but you can go 1/2 way and stop in the middle for bathrooms and a picnic. Flat, shaded, and easy to navigate, this is a must do in Jacksonville. read more

Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail-Trail - Great trail for kids! - Hiking Near Me - Jacksonville, Florida

I must thank John R (friend, teacher & all-around great person) for introducing me to this wonderful Jacksonville gem that I didn't know existed and for having the patience to stay at my pace on the times we've walk/run together. Now that I have walk/run/bike on this trail and have gone end to end, it's a very nice, well-maintained trail and it's paved all the way though. The east end is the Imeson Trailhead (30.345407° -81.772870°), there's a paved parking lot w/ restroom facility. This trailhead seems to be the busiest and can get crowded. Mile Markers go up from there. Just after MM1, trail crosses Bulls Bay Hwy and there's a very slight elevation change (down) from the road to about midway to MM2 and goes back up. There are a few spans throughout the trail that has a slight elevation change but not really noticeable unless you're on a bike, imo. Just after MM2, trail crosses Jones Road and about 0.20 mile before MM3, the powerline makes a 90-degree turn to the right and tree cover starts on the trail but does not get totally shaded. Once you cross a gravel road (Hannah Rd) between MM3 & MM4, that's where the trail gets really shaded and nice :). Between MM4 & MM5, trail goes under Pritchard road and about 0.15 mile before Halsema Road is the Camp Milton rest area, there's a faucet, restroom facility and picnic tables. On the other side of Halsema Road is the Halsema Trailhead (30.337500° -81.869663°). There's a dirt/gravel parking lot, portable toilet, picnic area and bike repair area. The trail crosses Otis Road just before MM8 and in between MM10 & MM11, there is a pig farm south (left side) of the trail and depending on which way the wind/breeze is blowing, there may be a very unpleasant smell that can start from MM9 to MM12. At MM11, trail crosses JEA Brandy Branch property and ends the shaded part of the trail, although there are sporadic shaded areas remaining. After MM12, trail crosses Palmetto Ave then goes under US 301 then crosses a railroad crossing before entering the Baldwin Trailhead facility. Baldwin Trailhead (30.310229° -81.972572°) is similar to the Imeson Trailhead but adds a bike/skate park and bike repair area. The Baldwin Permanent Locomotive Exhibit is accessible here. Trail crosses an overpass construction area in between MM13 & MM14. West end of the trail is the Brandy Branch Trailhead, approximately 0.50 mile after MM14. Brandy Branch Trailhead (30.306482° -82.008222°) has a paved parking lot & portable toilet. Some days, horses from the nearby farm comes here and they're friendly enough to take pics with. read more

See all

Restaurants in Baldwin, Florida. Most favorite and best kept secret on Jacksonville's Westside (Best-side) for outdoor bicycling, roller blading, jogging, running, hiking, (no cars allowed) picnicking with Camp Milton Civil War site. Free parking at both ends and in between along a round trip trail of 29 + or - miles. The old rail trail stretches from Imeson Road, Jacksonville end, all the way to west of Baldwin, Florida. Security cameras in parking areas and patrolled frequently by the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office. Restrooms are available with water fountains. A majority of the trail is covered with shade trees and at times you can see deer, wild turkeys, cows, turtles, snakes, rabbits, etc. read more

Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail-Trail - Jax Baldwin Rail Trail - Hiking Near Me - Jacksonville, Florida

Just finished an amazing ride on this 29 mile path in the hinterlands of far, far west Jax. What a gem!!! Beautiful smoothly paved bike trails, winding through forest and wetlands. First time here and can't wait to go back. Two trailheads for parking. Bike pumps. Restrooms. Well maintained paths. No elevation for an inexperienced bicyclist like myself was a blessing. Uncrowded and serene. What a great way to spend a Saturday afternoon. read more

See all

I LOVE doing here to clear my mind!! Living on Crystal Springs, the BRT isn't that far away at all! Definitely recommended for nature lovers such as myself. I've heard roosters crowing in the mornings, seen cows and horses, and have even found some spider webs! BRT also has private bathrooms very conveniently located in it towards the beginning. I love always going there to clear my mind. read more

Great workout. 32 miles round trip. Highly recommend it. Very few roads to cross ( mostly at the Jacksonville end). Mix it up. Start at Baldwin end and ride "uphill " to Jacksonville then have the "downhill " coast back to Baldwin. Or Start in Jacksonville and challenge yourself with the second half "uphill ". I put uphill and downhill in quotation marks because this is Jacksonville Florida where there are no hills but believe me starting and finishing in Jacksonville is more challenging than starting and finishing in Baldwin. read more

Play "Animal Scavenger Hunt" as you breeze under the shaded Florida canopies! We had an awesome Bike Ride yesterday at the Baldwin/Jacksonville Trail. It's another local "Rails to Trails" (A railroad track that's been paved over and converted to a bicycle/horse/walking trail.) The entire trail is 14.5 miles journeying through the swamp, forests, wetlands, grassy plains, rural homes, small farms etc. The constant shift in scenery is stimulating and it's even more fun to count how much wildlife you saw! I joked that it was like playing Animal Bingo! The coolest thing I saw was an adorable baby armadillo sniffing around the grass about a foot from the trail. I was also amused seeing two cows bathing in a deep pond in the shady forest. It looked a little ominous with the dramatic lighting and reminded me of The Walking Dead. (Thankfully, no zombies were present.) I was surprised with how BUSY it was Sunday morning! There was spandex, helmets, and bikes with skinny tires galore in the parking lot. However, once you were on a trail you had a leisurely private ride all to yourself with numerous "Good Mornings" to other cyclists as they passed. When reading the reviews on the http://www.traillink.com site it warned against car breakins, but it seemed like there was a constant watchful crowd by the parking lot so I wasn't worried. Because of the Florida summer heat, and because we were wussy, we did not finish the entire trail. We stopped midway by Camp Milton. Camp Milton Historical Preserve is the site of an important battle of the Civil War, but to be honest with you there wasn't much to see. At that halfway point there is also clean bathrooms, water fountains, and two picnic tables. We rode on the little trail off by the bathrooms to explore Camp Milton. Just meandering around Camp Milton wasn't terribly interesting but it was something new to explore and it was free. I can't wait to go back and ride along the other half of the trail towards Baldwin and see what other animals we find and reward ourselves with some Dreamette icecream upon completion! read more

See all

Looking for a great safe activity with exercise involved...look no further! Jacksonville Baldwin Rail Trail is the perfect place for fun! With amazingly paved old railroad tracks, you can bike, run, walk, skate, take your dog out, be one with nature. I have ran and biked here many times, as you have a great paved, no motor vehicles, 15 mile one way path! I brought my dog out here this weekend, trying to get a long walk in....he LOVED it! There is a restroom about 7-8 miles in, plenty of benches along the trail, and plenty of trash cans for you to deposit your rubbish. This is a well marked pathway, marking each .5 miles and marker posts at every mile. There is so much green, that you almost forget that you are still in the city....YAY! It's great when you see a family of deer crossing the path, and squirrels running up and down trees. The quiet is worth the drive out here and the environment will make you want to come back again and again! ***The path does cross a couple Jacksonville roads, so proceed with caution and have fun! read more

See all

**Plug this address in gps** this is the correct address on Imeson. This trail is so nice and peaceful. Well kept restrooms and trail. We come here often and enjoy it. There is so much shade this trail offers which makes it perfect to go at any time of day. We have also noticed the mile markers are on point with our gps while riding. read more

I am so thankful that we live in a city that cares about cyclists and run/ walkers. This trail is amazing. It is well maintained and a really good distance to just go on a ride or doing some training. This is a place you can feel safe on two wheels. You do have to cross a couple of roads if you are going the full route but it's not too crazy. It's even a great place to bring the kids. You can put them in a section and just let them go. It's amazing! There is some shooters no on a section of it due to being near a gun range. There are also some cows off to the side through certain sections. But there is plenty of shade and even if there are lots of riders it never feels crowded. read more

I have traveled on this train quite a few times. It is one of the best-kept secrets in Jacksonville, where 15 miles of train track was replaced by a trail between Jacksonville and Balwin. If you are on the Jacksonville side, the first few miles have a few cross streets that will have to be approached with caution if you are cycling. The trail is perfect for cyclists, also for any nonmotorized vehicles, joggers, or walkers. Much of the trail is in rural areas. The Balwin side has restrooms and a public bike rack and tools (it may be on the Jacksonville side as well but I did not see them) in a small park. There is a maximum 30-mile round trip (15 miles each way). There can be increased traffic on the trail on the weekends. read more

Definitely a good setting for any kind of outdoor recreation in Jax. I ran 21 miles out here last night, and despite the blistering summer temps and thick fog of mosquitoes, it was a pretty good time. The trail is fully paved and very clean. There was only a small bit of litter to detract from the beauty of nature. After the first 4 miles (westbound out of the Imeson trailhead) it's very shady and wonderful. The first 4 miles is pretty open to the sun, as it's part of the powerline. At mile 5.7, you reach the Camp Milton stop, which has two ice-cold water fountains that you may want to soak your whole body in if you're anything like me. There's a excellent bathroom there too, very clean. The walls are planked with cedar, which makes it pretty much the best-smelling public restroom in the nation. Basically I want to live there. You do pass a few homes, some of which are the 10-delapidated-cars-in-the-yard sort. I did get whistled at by one resident, which I found rather offensive. There's lots of cyclists and they're all very polite. The trail is well equipped for the equestrian types as well, which plenty of areas for tying up. There's also great mile markers (which was handy since my Garmin died early on) and the occasional bench and trash can. A real gem of a trail, and probably the only good reason to spend any time on the Northside/Baldwin area! read more

Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail-Trail - Shade is a priceless thing during summer marathon training. - Hiking Near Me - Jacksonville, Florida

See all

We have a nice bike trail in Jacksonville. It's a pretty ride amongst the trees. As for riding horses on the trail, don't. Bikes are too quiet and spook the horses. The grass on the side is better footing for them, but there's not always room. read more

Really good bike trail, LOVED it!! It's 14miles long one way, 28 miles total. We rode 14 miles in total, pretty good for amateurs :) Pretty sceneries, ran into some chickens and roosters! Quite a few people were there but not too crowed and everyone was very polite! The whole trail is paved, plenty of shade, very nice place to exercise! read more

Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail-Trail - Start of the trail - Hiking Near Me - Jacksonville, Florida

Me and my family go all the time! I go armed for any ill-encounters but mostly everyone is very friendly. I can handle anyone who may wish us harm. It would be a VERY bad day for them but we just love this area and the people. read more

As far as road cycling goes in jacksonville, this is the best I have found. You are protected from cars (sans a few road crossings). There are bathrooms and water fountains and adequate parking. The route is straight and relatively flat with nice country scenery. read more

The trail is approximately 15 miles one way. It's a nice trail if you enjoy bike riding, skating, running, walking and its kid friendly. There are bathrooms along the trail. I've seen deeds, cows, wild turkeys along the trail. I've seen a snake twice. If you do not rent to deal with a lot of traffic the trail is a great option. read more

Beautiful place - take the paved path or a dirt path ... Either way it's a beautiful trail and you sure to see wildlife which ever path you choose! read more

Beautiful Bike Trail. The paved path is smooth and a great venue for fast riding without the stress of traffic. There was even a free water station at about 1.5 miles in. read more