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Balm Boyette Scrub Preserve, Brandon, Florida >

Balm Boyette Scrub Preserve has 25 miles of singletrack and 10 miles of two-track that has become singletrack with usage. Boyette is situated on 4,900 acres of upland scrub, located just south of Brandon. About a dozen lakes populate rolling grasslands at the far eastern end of the property, with the remainder being heavily covered with scrub-oak and pine. From beginner to advanced rider, Boyette has something for everyone.


The Ridgeline Trail, completed in December of 2008, is unlike any trail in our system. The climbs are challenging, but within one’s reach. The descents are definitely steep enough to cause a moment of hesitation, but the smooth run-out at the bottom puts each drop within your grasp. The trail is wide, with few turns; all designed to allow the rider to build and maintain speed. This trail is all about going downhill really fast...


Ridgeline is literally on an island. Yes, surrounded by water on all four sides. Causeways have been built to allow access. With waist deep fern, huge oak trees, and unbelievably high ridges groomed to perfection, it is our club’s Fantasy Island.


Ridgeline is 1.7 miles of smooth, rolling fun. To up the thrill factor, there are 4 optional side loops that have considerably steeper drops. Nothing suicidal, but distinctly different, and definitely an attention getter. Plus there are some practice Switch-backs here too.


On the east side of Boyette Road are 12 miles of beginner's level two-track circling the dozen or so lakes. Several intermediate level singletrack loops branch off this main two-track. These loops are cut through the woods and along the lakes, and consist of moderately strenuous, more technically difficult trails. There are some open sections where a rider can gain speed, but for the most part, the trail is tight, twisty and tough. Oh yeah, it's also great fun.




Right click and "Save As" to download trail map.


Trail submitted by Carlos Ruiz


Also don't miss the nearby Alafia River trails.


TRAIL FACTS >

The Trail

Skill Level: Beginner to Advanced
Trail Type: Cross Country
Length: 35 miles total
Elevation Gain: 2,000 feet total
Elevation Loss: 2,000 feet total


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Location

Trail Name : Balm Boyette
City(s) : Brandon
County : Lithia
State : Florida
Country : USA
Trail GPS Cords : 27.778102,-82.240791

LOCAL KNOWLEDGE >

 

Directions

Parking area address: 13998 Balm-Boyette Rd, Lithia FL 33547
From I-75, take exit 246, Big Bend Rd (CR 672).Go east on Big Bend Rd (CR 672) to US 301.· Turn right on US 301. Continue south for 1.5 miles to Balm Rd (CR 672).· Turn left at Balm Rd (CR 672). Continue east for 5.2 miles to Balm-Boyette Rd.· Turn left on Balm-Boyette Rd. Continue north for 1.3 miles to parking lot on right (east) side.

Places to Eat

7/11, Hess, Buffalo Wild Wings, Panera Bread, and many more places to eat or grab a cold beer after a lond day's ride.

Places to Stay

Comfort Inn Sun City Center
718 Cypress Village Blvd
Sun City Center, FL 33573

Holiday Inn Express
3113 College Ave East
Ruskin, FL 33570

Local Bike Shops


Carrollwood
14407-B N Dale Mabry
Tampa, FL
(813) 910-0207

Chainwheel Drive
1770 Drew Street
Clearwater, FL 33755-6220
(727)441-2444

   

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