Carter Road Trail

Carter Road Trail

	Carter Road Trail
Location:	Florida
Nearest Town:	Lakeland
Directions to Trailhead:	Take South Florida Ave. (S.R. 37) south out of Lakeland toward Mulberry. You'll pass a Winn Dixie shopping center on the left at the corner of South Florida Ave. and Shepherd Road. About 1/4 of a mile south of Shepherd Road you will turn left onto Carter Road. The entrance to the park is about a 1/2 on the right. You Can't miss it.
Trail Description:	The Carter Road Trail consits of several types of terrain. From the challenging ridges that peak between two phosphate pits to the singletrack trails that wind through the forest. This trail has something for everyone. Carter Road Trail host several amateur races per year and is growing in recognition. The local bike shops have some great information about this trail if you would like to look them up.
Trail Length:	7 miles
Trail Type:	Singletrack
Skill Level:	Intermediate
Submitted By:	MTB4Fun

Camilo from Ft Myers Date: July 5, 2003 Trail Ridden: Ridden Once
Recommended Route: From entrance to Carter Park turn left until the end (dirt road) Other recommended trails in the same area: Alafia (also insane but with less alligators)
Review: Carter Roas is a weird mix of easy/ insane. If you are intermediate you would find most of it quite ridable until you reach the ridges (snake, insane snake, three toes, etc). Those rides are designed to feed the alligators...with you. You'll see them waiting for you just below the big drops.	Overall Rating:

dan dan from orlando Date: May 8, 2003 Trail Ridden: Ridden Once
Recommended Route: From Orlando, take I-4 Other recommended trails in the same area: Belleview for all skill levels. Nice limeston trails for fast switchbacks. Razorback for the extreme- I highly recommend this place if you like fast drops, jumps, and climbs. You can do it all here
Review: After riding in Ocala, FL, Carter Road trails are for juniors. It is nice and scenic but not as fun and intense as Belleview or Razorback.	Overall Rating:

slim from North Port Date: May 5, 2003 Trail Ridden: Ridden Once
Recommended Route: ? Start at the parking lot and head to sprinkler hill. Follow the trail around to all the off-shoots and wind back up on the far side of the soccer fields. Other recommended trails in the same area: Alafia North Port(Myakkahatchee Park...AKA "MYITCHYCOOCHY")
Review: This is a fun trail. Some of the fingers that shoot off the double track are not for novice riders. There are some tricky climbs and some technical downhills. This is built on a reclaimed mine so there are some ups and downs. If you see people in the paking lot, ask for some help finding all the good trails your first time out. The Ridge Riders are a nice and helpful group.	Overall Rating:

scott from ORLANDO Date: March 19, 2003 Trail Ridden: Once a month
Recommended Route: I usually wind up riding the wrong way. Other recommended trails in the same area: Santos, Econlockhatchee, Near Pioneer Trail in Volusia County
Review: I think I was going against the grain on "The Beast", I hit a root without enough momentum and I went ass over the bars and had to catch a half dead tree to keep me from landing in the stagnant, nasty, green drink. One day I will figure out the proper direction.	Overall Rating:

Dom from Lakeland Date: February 15, 2003 Trail Ridden: Once a month
Recommended Route: I always start at sprinkler hill and do the standard route without hitting the out and back trails. Other recommended trails in the same area:
Review: I was just out there today. It has been nice and dry, but compact. Some paths are covered with a light payer of leaves, so they can get slippery. They have been doing a lot of upkeep lately and cutting some new routes. It's much more fun than it was about a year ago. I'm a novice but I would even say that some of the alternate 'passing zones' look like they would be fun even for the advanced riders. These new areas are found throughout, but not in 'The Beast' which the drop in has gotten very rough. It is easy to miss some of the trails and it might lead you to think some of the people are exaggerating about the place. Just pay careful attention and you can see where people have been riding. If you havent been in a while come back and see what's new. Overall it is easy riding interspersed with some fun spots. Be sure to hit what I think was called 'The Ring Finger' and the new trail right at the end. (it cuts off to the left and is easy to miss) Some of the ridges are slightly sloped and have angular roots that can twist your front wheel. It requires you to keep your speed up. If you lose speed on many of the fun areas, you'll end up having to walk the best parts. I have never seen it crowded, and everyone I have met has been courtious and helpful.	Overall Rating:

Wes from Tampa, FL Date: December 6, 2002 Trail Ridden: Once a week
Recommended Route: Read the other reviews. I start at Sprinkler hill and finish back at the car. Other recommended trails in the same area: Alafia-didn't care too much for it.
Review: Great place to ride. Thank you Ridge Riders. I will be sending in my $30 at the beginning of the year. I've ridden this trail for the past 4 weekends and on Turkey day. It's a great place to acquire more skills. I'm in the intermediate level now. I love the beast. Took a nice spill on one hill, no damage done but $50 for a new rear wheel. Please do not litter. BTW, be wary of the snakes, about had a bit with a rattlesnake. Not for the faint of heart.	Overall Rating:

John from Tampa , Fl, Date: November 23, 2002 Trail Ridden: Once a month
Recommended Route: Tje nice thing about Carter rd. is for beginners it's almost impossible to get lost , once your on the trail it only goes one direction and every one of them end in the same place. Other recommended trails in the same area: Santos , Razorback , Alafia
Review: I read the review before my own and it has me in a tizzy obviously this was an experienced rider who is too ignorant to realize Carter rd. was never intended to be as extreme as The Toe. Carter rd. as described isn't too technical for a beginner but it is alot more exciting than Flatwoods park. and is more likely to entertain the 80's aging BMX crowd like myself. The Beast isn't the Beast anymore errosion has whooped this beast for a more challenging trail go elsewhere , but if you lack the brass to tackle the Toe and Flatwoods just isn't cutting it anymore then Carter Rd. is for you.	Overall Rating:

Raven from Miami Date: September 2, 2002 Trail Ridden: Ridden Once
Recommended Route: Other recommended trails in the same area: Santos, TOE
Review: This trail sucks, if you live in miami and are thinking about driving to do it don't. It's not technical, hardly any drops, the only danger and excitment are the gators and snakes. As for the best trail the Beast it stinks too, took about 4 minutes to do the whole trail. If this is your kind of trail then go knock yourself out if not don't bother going. Basically it's a piece of shit.It' snot worth the drive go do the TOE. Markham is a lot better and Carter rd is like Quiet Waters in deerfield.	Overall Rating:

choco from Ft. Liquordale Date: August 12, 2002 Trail Ridden: Every few months
Recommended Route: Cater Rd. is located off of SR37 in South Lakeland. SR 37is accessible from I-4 at exit 18 or Highway 60 in Mulberry. From Lakeland- Take South Florida Ave. (S.R. 37) south out of Lakeland toward Mulberry. You'll pass a Winn Dixie shopping center on the left at the corner of South Florida Ave. and Shepherd Road. About 1/4 of a mile south of Shepherd Road you will turn left onto Carter Road. The entrance to the park is about a 1/2 on the right. Other recommended trails in the same area: T.O.E., Santos, Hard Rock.
Review: This trail was also one of the best in Florida. With amazing scenery and really intersting, fun, technical single track. Now I know why the club up here is called the "ridge riders." The ridges you ride on in the short areas of land that jet out into the lake have steep high ridges on them that you cut up and down on. It's sick! there are areas where you can not stop or you'll go down either side of a rather large drop into the water. And there are gators everywhere. You see them all over the place. I even saw one ballsy turtle facing-off an alligator on a log. It's up in the photo tour, a little hard to see though. Can't ride with the telephoto lense, that's too much money and too heavy to cart around like that. We also saw a few big snakes, I have no idea what they are, buit I know they were either really dark brown or black and severeal feet long. And a small family of wild pigs which I had never seen in the wild before. Very cool. This trail has a little of everything and I can't wait to ride it again... forward next time!! Watch out for the BEAST! For more details and a photo tour check out tredhed.com	Overall Rating:

Haro from Tampa, FL Date: June 19, 2002 Trail Ridden: Please Select
Recommended Route: Carter Park - Start at Sprinkler Hill and pretty much stay left till you end back at the ball fields Other recommended trails in the same area: Alafia, Toe
Review: Carter Park is a strange animal. Some parts I really like and other suck. As for beginners, its a decent trail but I wouldn't recommend the 'Beast' and the 'Out&backs' to novices. Bring water and power bars - the trails alternate between roads, single track and riding ridges with nerve racking drop-offs (similar but not as drastic to the Toe). Watch for trucks, local fishermen and walkers. My friend fell from a ridge trying to avoid a Yuppie and his poodle walking on the trail. Watch the waters edge - I have a friend who launched himself into the lake after realizing the out&back trail ended too late. And the water is a anti-freeze neon green that would probably degrease your bkie and eat your skin off. (seen any 3-eyed fish there?) AND DON'T CUT ROOTS OUT OF THE TRAIL! If you scumbags can't manage to ride over a 3" root, stay on the pavement. You mess up the trails and kill the trees! Besides, those roots make for good wrecks which add character to a newbie rider. Yes, you can climb the railroad tie hill. The best part of the whole place is the 1/4 mile last loop called "The Beast". Excellent place to develope skills and a lightning fast (way too short) downhill as you exit. Overall Carter Park is good for intermediate riders - not too challanging for experts, some parts are too advanced for beginners. If you want better riding, join the Ridge Riders and go to the TOE.	Overall Rating:

JC from South Africa/Orlando Date: May 8, 2002 Trail Ridden: Ridden Once
Recommended Route: I-4 West, Highway 98 & 37 South, Left into West Carter Road, Right into the park Other recommended trails in the same area: T.O.E.
Review: Good for Florida, nice and tight in spots, if you miss a turn you're in the drink. Great trail for all levels. When will authorities start respecting bikers and provide water at the trailheads at least? Looking at the cost of biking equipment, I deduce that MTB'ers earn more, therefore pay more taxes, surely we can demand some basic services for our sport too? I'm venting. This was a great ride!!!	Overall Rating:

Brian from Lakeland, Fl Date: April 29, 2002 Trail Ridden: Ridden Once
Recommended Route: Other recommended trails in the same area:
Review: This trail was good...A good trial to get started on and will defently be good to keep on going back and riding harder!	Overall Rating:

Code from IL, USA Date: April 1, 2002 Trail Ridden: Ridden Once
Recommended Route: All of it. Other recommended trails in the same area: Nope
Review: Can be very technical in some sections. A few of the ridges will make you think twice about going fast. I actually fell about 6-7ft into the water on the ridge with the sandy switchback. It was on the lower portion actually on one of the small 'bumps' with a tree on the right and a root in the center and sand on the right edge(water side). When the chain jammed I put my foot down and the sand gave way, not sure how many times I rolled but I got quite a few scratches for my effort. Luckily(?) I took out enough small plants on the way down that I never got wet, they formed a bed underneath me while the bike got slightly wet... Compared to riding around northern IL this is defiantly better, but still doesn't come close to riding in CO :) I would definitely go back, but I would bring better tires(the lack of side knobs on the Pythons make for a sketchy ride). Four stars for superb FL inverted mountain riding.	Overall Rating:

Brian S from brooksville Date: March 5, 2002 Trail Ridden: Once a month
Recommended Route: Good luck, not many signs,when you hit the clay road keep looking to the left lots of good trail could be missed! Other recommended trails in the same area: TOE!!!!!! Further north----Santos,Hardrock,Razorback
Review: This is an update to my review last year. Carter is looking good, lots of new trails cut, a killer bridge to ride and even a cool jump where you park (for when you just can't load the bike up and leave.)only one complaint "not enough signs" always feel like your missing something.	Overall Rating:

Eddie from Lakeland, Florida Date: January 18, 2002 Trail Ridden: Once a week
Recommended Route: Start at the trail head at the far east dirt parking lot. Follow the double track up the small hill. Then turn right and follow the single track up the hill. This area is call "Sprinkler Hill." Continue through the wooded area and look for the small red or black on white cards along the path. Eventually you will come into a clearing. Following the path you will end up in the woods again. Be careful on this part. There is a tree that is down and sits very low along the trail (it is marked with red tape). Continue through the woods until you end up on the road again. For those who are a bit more experienced you will want to take a ride on the ridges. They progressively get harder. There are about 5 ridges (I think). Either the #2 or #3 ridge is the hardest. A lot of soft sugar sand. You'll need to take it easy or you'll end up in the water there. Most people with average skill would enjoy the area known as "Snake Trail." Once you pass all of the ridges then the ride is pretty simple after that. There is a steep drop that crosses a small bridge on the backside of the trail. Be careful here it could be under water and be very slick. There are also some narrow single track in this area. When you get done it'll bring you back onto the road. Other recommended trails in the same area: The Croom in Pasco County. It's a long ride but lots of fun. Alafia in Hillsborough County. The red trail is the only trail worth riding.
Review: A good ride for intermediate riders. The trail is about 7 miles total. Some areas along the ridges are very challenging. Beware of riding after a race is hosted there. The racers tend to soften the sand up a lot.	Overall Rating:

Craig Fulton from St. Pete Date: January 18, 2002 Trail Ridden: Once a month
Recommended Route: Just follow the signs. Wait, there are no signs! This is a single track in one direction. Just don't miss any of the side trail off of the fire road. Other recommended trails in the same area: Alafia River Park
Review: Check out www.kmaracing.com We will have video of this trail. This trail is a good one to become consistant at. It only around 7 miles long if you get the muddy section at the very beginning. A few laps makes the drive worth while. I still want to drop 8 feet into the big sand pit, but not sure about landing in that sand.	Overall Rating:

Jenica from Jupiter Date: January 12, 2002 Trail Ridden: Ridden Once
Recommended Route: i don't know what this means Other recommended trails in the same area: never ridden any
Review: This was my first trail ride ever....stay on the main trail if your a beginner and there will only be a couple of tough spots but there are lots of hard trails if you venture off the main trail...which is good for all you experienced people...kind of hard to find your way but there are a few arrows every now and then to show you the way...you'll just have to figure out which trails are hard and which are easy on your own because there are no signs....	Overall Rating:

Mark from OH Date: December 26, 2001 Trail Ridden: Ridden Once
Recommended Route: Do the whole loop. Do not leave anything out. Other recommended trails in the same area: TOE, Razorback
Review: Lots of fun. We did not ride the loop to the left -we heard it was subject to mud. The route (up hill and to the right) lead into some mellow twistees, and loops around the water. Go out on the spines. The drops and rises are fun. The spines get progressively more challenging. On the flats, open it up and enjoy the banked corners. The scenery is awesome. Worth the trip. Great place to bump up the heart rate whether practicing your pace or blasting some short steepies. Great place to train. This is a FL 5 star. They do a wonderful job with the limited amount of terrain. I will return.	Overall Rating:

Matt from Jax Date: December 15, 2001 Trail Ridden: Ridden Once
Recommended Route: theres really only one trail and it's kinda hard to find your way around. I did figure it out at the end. the best thing to do is to ask someone before riding the trail Other recommended trails in the same area: the toe is sopposed to be good even though i've never rode it.
Review: This is one of the best trails i have ever ridden. it's ridden a lot so it's kinda tore up but it's still very nice. some parts of it get kinda hard and techy. the best part is when your on a 2 foot penisula and theres water one both sides thats infested with alagators, i almost fell in twice. My dad endoed a few times and i'm sorta beet up. we drove an hour to get there from orlando. thats were we were on vacation. like the trail a lot if you are anywere close ride it.	Overall Rating:

Brian from FL Date: November 30, 2001 Trail Ridden: Every few months
Recommended Route: Other recommended trails in the same area: REDDICK, SANTOS,TOE
Review: When I first rode this trail it was great and really put a hurting on me. Every time I've been back since it seems to become a little worse.It is not from lack of care,The Ridge Riders put alot of time in on this trail.It is just the Polk county terain. can you say SOFT! This course is ridden often and it shows.A newbie wouldn't mind but if you ride any other courses like reddick,santos,toe,hardrock you probably will not plan many more trips there.I have mixed emotions on rating this trail. I didnt love the ride but just having a place to ride is the most important thing.	Overall Rating:

Phil from Micanopy Date: November 28, 2001 Trail Ridden: Ridden Once
Recommended Route: Parked across from bathrooms, headed east and road clockwise Other recommended trails in the same area: Razorback, San Felasco, Santosk, Fort Clinch
Review: Went the Friday after Thanksgiving and had a blast riding before the Florida State Series race, I am a Novice. Went down "the Beast" without any trouble and was not sure that I had really found it as mentioned in other reviews. My son is 12, we have been riding for about a year, mostly Santos/TOS. Anyway, we began the FSC #7 race on Sunday, and I really enjoyed my ride until I came up upon the Beast again, I had been warned of the roots and xdrop, but I said I'm cool, I had no trouble two days ago, so I waited for a spot with no trafffic and went half way down the Beast with my hardtail, and you guessed it, the other half way without! Fractured my left wrist in five places, and my right wrist, so my second attempt at the Beast cost me two broken arms. So this trail is beautiful but commands much respect. No one in the White wave tried to ride up the "ladder" ridge that I saw. Trails are in great shape, well maintained, interesting, worth the trip.	Overall Rating:

HarryC from Tampa,FL Date: June 17, 2001 Trail Ridden: Ridden Once
Recommended Route: I took I4 to County Line RD. south to Shepard RD east to ST RD 37 south about 2 blocks and then left on Carter RD. Other recommended trails in the same area: Trout creek is a nice place. Have not been anywhere else.
Review: Those to try this place: everyone with a brain to not push beyond their limits. The scenery is great out here. This is a review by a newbie to the MTB scene. Please take it as so. I started out at Trout Creek in Tampa. This was my first time to Carter RD. I went with my brother and my friend. This was the first time for all three of us. We went out to do the initial run to get to know the trails a little. We spent 2 hours exploring. About 30 min was spent "doing", or I guess I should say being "done" by the beast. It is a 200 yd loop off the main trail that drops about 20' @ 45 degrees down. Very awesome and very hard. There are many little places to do jumps and get good air and there are a lot of fast single tracks. This trail is SO worth the trip out to L land. I have to give this place a 5-tire rating. Once you go you will understand. The scenery is great and the ride is even better. I loved it. Over all it was AWSOME!!!!	Overall Rating:

BillT from Longwood Date: May 25, 2001 Trail Ridden: Once a month
Recommended Route: Just try to follow the trail and when in doubt keep to the left :) Other recommended trails in the same area: In south Florida check out Markham and Oleta and in north Florida check out Belleview/Santos and Razorback...I'm still looking for something fun in central Florida.
Review: This was a much better trail than I was expecting...I just recently moved up to central Florida from the Miami/Ft. Lauderdale area where we have 2 excellent sets of trails, Markham Park and Oleta River, and I really wasn't expecting Carter Road to measure up. I was wrong. Carter Road is a great set of trails! It is mostly covered and mostly hardpack with minimal sugar sand (we really need some rain!). The trails offer a little bit of everything from wooded singletrack to fireroads to ridge rides. The ridges are my favorite and the trail offers many of them (with several being optional, lightly traveled, and rather technical - some you really have to watch as they can dead-end you right in the water!). The trail is a blast and I'd definately recommend it to anyone.	Overall Rating:

Rich from Pembroke Pines Date: May 13, 2001 Trail Ridden: Ridden Once
Recommended Route: Other recommended trails in the same area: Santos, Razorback
Review: Nice riding. I got lucky.... rode after a race so it was marked well. I would recommend riding it for the first time with someone knows the trail, but if not, as mentioned earlier....if you come to an opening with a clay road you should go left. I explored a lot of the unmarked areas that were pretty technical but be warned, some of them dead end in a hurry. (it would be nice if they were marked as such). If the rest of the trail challenges you should not go down these.This trail has a lot of different terrain and incredible scenery.(Lots of gators) The suger sand sucks but it is Fl. and they have done a good job with clay and mats to make it better. Can anyone make it up that climb with the wood steps? I liked the last loop the best.(I'm assuming that was the beast????). The trail has something for everyone but I would not recommend beginners unless you are with someone who knows the trail for you to follow. Thanks to the Ridgeriders for a great job. This place must rock to ride at night. For Fl. I gave it 5 stars	Overall Rating:

dogmatik from brandon,fl Date: May 12, 2001 Trail Ridden: Ridden Once
Recommended Route: Other recommended trails in the same area:
Review: This place Rocks!! It has it all, speed ,drops,sand,technical, you name it. Very fun. Got there at 7:30am and enjoyed a cool ride.Musta been first one, as I cleared out ALL the spider webs.Much, more fun than Tampas trails,due to the hills. Wish it was longer though.Hats off to Ridge riders!!!!!!! Im gonna join 'em.	Overall Rating:

CJ from Deland, FL, USA Date: May 8, 2001 Trail Ridden: Ridden Once
Recommended Route: Not too terribly difficult to find. Trail starts at the end of the dirt road... past the ball fields. Other recommended trails in the same area: Bellview, Snow Hill
Review: Had a bear finding where to start on the trail. Found the middle before we found the start. This trails not the easiest to follow either. Without a map or someone who's been there you'll spend some time hunting down dead ends and looking for fresh bike tracks. Might be more fun once we figure out all the routes. Got bored looking for the trails.	Overall Rating:

RidgeDiver from Tampa Date: April 2, 2001 Trail Ridden: Once a week
Recommended Route: MapQuest Other recommended trails in the same area: Morris Bridge
Review: This trail is a lot of fun. Good for all riders. The beginners can get a grasp of what the good/experienced riders are doing. The beginners can easily bypass the more technical stuff while the experts can seek out the more difficult trails. It is a great place to train/cardio ride. Recommend taking your kids and having fun, but be careful on some parts, you can eat it and find yourself in a alligator infested pond. Most of the riders start on the Sprinkler Hill and take the rest of the trail in a counter clockwise direction. See RidgeRiders.net for directions and maps.	Overall Rating:

from Date: March 18, 2001 Trail Ridden: Once a week
Recommended Route: 1 Other recommended trails in the same area: 1
Review: 1	Overall Rating:

Craig A. Roberts from Lakeland Date: March 14, 2001 Trail Ridden: Once a week
Recommended Route: left or right on Carter road Other recommended trails in the same area: Looking forward to the T.O.E.
Review: This trail works for everybody, 'cause I have been riding it for over a year and a half. Since everyone is not born a pro, you need to start somewhere. The diversity of riding skill I see on Carter road is incredible. If you need a break it is not so difficult to get back to your vehicle,just find a clay road and follow it. I like to take 3 or 4 trips out on the weekends, I recently moved 12 miles closer so I wouldn't have so far to drive. (So I like the trail) Don't get me wrong just because my bike has a dedicated spot in the living room of my apartment does not mean that it rules my life. Back to the trails. Only recommended for the novice on the open trails. Otherwise intermediate to advanced. About 3 or 4 steep drops, enough climbs to make you grab your bar ends about three dozen times and some really great ridge rides where in some cases nothing but air on either side, like rope swing where I bought air and got 6 days off work, during which time I caught up on important reading like mountain bike mag and Ridge Riders Web site. The trail is basically under cover of pretty dense foalige and if you are riding a hardtail enough roots to keep you off your seat on selected trails. One of the great things about Carter Road is that one minute you are dropping off a ridge the next thing you are saying is Welcome to the Jungle. Like one of the letter said the basic rule of thumb for finding the right trail is keeping to the left, most of the trails are off the left side if that makes any sense, and most of the people that I run into cannot figure out how to start. That part is simple, just head down the sidewalk to the the back of the park (East) from there it is not too hard. Hope this was helpful. Just found out recently about Ridge Riders and look forward to joining their club, and thanks so much for the clay work you have done and the maintenance, the trail is great.	Overall Rating:

CLINTON from LAKELAND Date: January 15, 2001 Trail Ridden: Once a week
Recommended Route: I LIKE STARTING OFF SPRINKLER HILL,RIDING THE WHOLE TRACK AND THEN TAKEING A FEW DROPS OFF THE SAND CLIFF.ITS ALOT EASIER THAN IT LOOKS,IF YOU FALL SO WHAT ITS ONLY SAND.DONT BE SCARRRED. Other recommended trails in the same area: THE TOE,F.S.C(Frank Loyed Wright has some great stair designs)
Review: I RIDE THIS TRACK AT LEAST TWICE A WEEK,I HAVE FRIENDS THAT RIDE WITH ME WHOSE SKILLS RANGE FROM GOOD (LIKE ME)TO SOME THAT REALLY SHOULDNT BE OUT THERE.ANYBODY CAN RIDE THIS WHOLE TRACK ITS THE LINES YOU TAKE THAT MAKE IT FUN.THE TOE IS FUN ALSO BUT,CARTER IS MY HOME TRACK.ITS THE BEST I HAVE FOUND IN L-TOWN.	Overall Rating:

cycoC from Jax Date: November 28, 2000 Trail Ridden: Ridden Once
Recommended Route: same as above Other recommended trails in the same area: Santos (Belleview), Hardrock, Razorback (Ocala)
Review: I with Perry on this one, probably because I was riding this trail with him. I wasn't all that impressed with this trail. I agree that there are some pretty technical sections, mostly the ridges that you ride on that are more like 20' to 30', not 15' like Perry said, I would know because I was the one that almost had a splashdown if it weren't for that strategically placed log! Lots of roots which is typical for Florida. Too much sugar sand but at least they were mixing some clay with it to even it out. This trail is not for the beginner! Intermediate to advanced can ride this trail with little or no problems. All in all it was a pretty good trail, of course being from Jacksonville, it is too far to drive when there are better trails a few hours closer to home! Live to Ride & Ride to Live!	Overall Rating:

Perry from Jax Date: November 25, 2000 Trail Ridden: Ridden Once
Recommended Route: Thanks goes to Chris, from Largo(see review below) for the guided ride. E-mail me when you come to Santos, I'll return the favor. If it is your first time riding Carter Road I would recommend getting with someone who knows the trails and tagging along. We drove down from Jax just to ride and it was definitely worth the trip. (I would still perfer riding the trails in Ocala over Carter Rd). From I-4, get off at exit 18. Head south for approx. 11 miles. Carter RD will be on your left. Go down exactly 1/2 mile, park entrance is on your right. Entrance to trail on the other side of ballfields. Other recommended trails in the same area:
Review: Was disappointed with the amount of thick sand that we encountered on the trails. But riding on the high, 2' wide ridges, with lakes 15' below you on both sides soon made up for it. I had an extremely hard time concentrating on the trails because the view on either side of me was awesome. The best word to describe these trails is "fun". After riding the trails in Ocala, I did'nt find Carter to be very challenging. Dont get me wrong you will get a good work out and there are some technical sections but more or less it's like being on a fun roller coaster ride. I would normally give this trail 4 stars but as I said earlier the thick sand was a little disappointing and I have to offset the people who gave this trail 5 stars. I'm giving it 3.	Overall Rating:

Chris from Largo, FL Date: November 12, 2000 Trail Ridden: Once a week
Recommended Route: Clockwise. Start at Sprinkler Hill and hang on. When on the dirt road, veer left whenever possible. Other recommended trails in the same area:
Review: Okay...this trail is incredible and it's humbling in some areas. The Sprinkler Hill section is a major pain because of all the sand. Once you hammer your way through that area however, it just gets better and better. Once you come out of the first section onto the dirt road, just keep left and keep your eyes open. Everytime that you see a trail break off to the left, take it. The last dirt road area that you come to dead ends after about a half mile. Take the trail to the right just before the dead-end. That will take you to the RollerCoaster area. Man...I just don't see anyone making it up that thing, with the exception of a sectionals rider. Take my word for it, this trail is a REALLY good area to hone your technical skills and a good place to get over any fears of eating it, because you will at some point. The last loop section is REALLY challenging...especially the lower section...I ate it there but good. Still, it's par for the course. Beginners can ride this course, if slowly. I don't consider myself an pro, but I'm sure that even them can get some fun out of it. I think that intermediates will get the most out of this place. Good luck and may the force be with you.	Overall Rating:

Barbara from Tampa Date: September 27, 2000 Trail Ridden: Once a month
Recommended Route: Clockwise Other recommended trails in the same area: TOE
Review: I have been coming to Carter Road for several years and the trail has just gotten better and better. The Ridge Riders have really done a great job on maintaining and adding new sections. This one of the nicest rides around. All levels can ride. You may find yourself walking a few sections if you are new to the sport.	Overall Rating:

Kelly from Orlando Date: September 24, 2000 Trail Ridden: Once a month
Recommended Route: Clock-wise Other recommended trails in the same area: TOE
Review: Great trail! About six miles long. All kinds of different terrain. Thanks Ridge Riders	Overall Rating:

CP_1 from Dunedin, FL Date: September 22, 2000 Trail Ridden: Once a month
Recommended Route: From Pinellas, take 60 all the way to Mulberry, take Highway 37 north and you will see the park on your left. Drive in, take a left and park by the bike rack. Ride north until you see double track and have fun. Other recommended trails in the same area: None, all the others suck (i.e. Morris Bridge, Boyette)
Review: This is a very unique trail, as you start off, you will think nothing of what it has to offer. It is sandy (this is Florida...) and a little technical. You will have a short climb and will come out by the phosphate dig. Down a trail, three small jumps and in to the jungle you will go. Now the fun starts as you get to the first ridge. Ride fast and you will quickly learn why this is one of the funnest places to ride that is close to Hillsborough/Pinellas county. Watch out for the gators!	Overall Rating:

Carlos Orozco from Lakeland FLORIDA Date: August 24, 2000 Trail Ridden: Once a week
Recommended Route: Take I-4 on to exit 18, fron there go to s.florida ave and take it all the way until you get to shepperd road, after the shepperd road light. gpo about 1/2 a mile on the left there will be an entrance to the park (right across from a discount auto) Other recommended trails in the same area:
Review: Awesome Trails, I broke my right ankle in 3 places in April 14th of 2000 on the "baby beast", that was not fun but it was raining and you really dont wanna go on the technical trails when its raining (trust me)..i learned my lesson the hard way. Over all the trails are AWESOME and this park has something for everyone, from beginers to the pro's. Warning: THE BEAST ROCKS ;)	Overall Rating:

Steve from Sebring, Florida Date: July 19, 2000 Trail Ridden: Every few months
Recommended Route: From Sebring go US 27 to Hwy 60 west, thru Bartow to Mulberry, turn north on Florida (SR 37) then right on Carter Rd. Other recommended trails in the same area: Santos, Morris Bridge, Preserves.
Review: This is a great trail for intermediate riders to test their skills on. The Beast is fun but if you want a challenge, find the dead end trails but watch out for the quick no warning end to them. These three trails have short steep climbs that the average rider will not be ready for due to the fact that they are on a ridge that is very narrow, high and placed between two ponds. One slip and you can fall approx. 25 ft. down take my word on this. My only complaint is that it is very hard to find all of the single track without a map or someone who rides there often. If you like Santos give this one a try.	Overall Rating:

scott from clearwater,fla Date: July 18, 2000 Trail Ridden: Once a week
Recommended Route: Other recommended trails in the same area:
Review: its a great place to ride has something for everyone the beast is my favorite trail is the beastit can get hairy in some sections its got the rocks roots and a tree at the botten of the hill where i broke my collor bone so you who dont know that tril to well you better watch out e-mail me some time so we can go for a ride	Overall Rating:

Dave from Oldsmar, Fl Date: July 16, 2000 Trail Ridden: Ridden Once
Recommended Route: Look below Other recommended trails in the same area: Santos and the indian trail at Morris bridge.
Review: I've ridden Flatwoods, Morris bridge and Santos. This place was an unexpected suprise when I saw it all. Luckily I went with 3 others that have ridden here before. Without a map you'll never find it all. It started with a decent climb up a rubber laid path to the top of a hill. Then it was your average single track for a while witha few jumps in the flats. Then things got intersting. A trail with a two foot surface ,water on both sides and 20'-30' drops either way. To make it harder the trail goes up and down with off-cambers for several hundred feet. The rest of the loops and off shoots varied in difficulty. There are some climbs that I don't think even most of the pros can do. This is a great sreies of trails but be warned, you need protective gear. I would even go to the point of saying that if you biff in the wrong place it could be your last. If it just rained bring bug spray and watch the washouts and mud. Overall, Most trails are good for all but leave the hard trails for the more experienced.	Overall Rating:

Ryan M. from St. Petersburg, FL Date: July 1, 2000 Trail Ridden: Once a week
Recommended Route: while riding? geez somebody tell me that! i need a map. from st. pete? 275N to I-4E to Polk (15 A) to exit 7, right turn until Burger King, first left then first right. Other recommended trails in the same area: Morris Trail, because it makes me feel like a pro :) Santos, because it's my ideal trail with less roots and nice jumps If anybody in the st. pete/tampa area ever wants to carpool to a trail even morris bridge let me know by email! don't worry i suck worse than you so you'll feel better riding with me too!
Review: I must say compared to Morris Bridge this trail whipped my ass, hell compared to Santos Trail (the paths i did not puss out on!) this trail was tough. I had no idea where i was going and ended up on some roller coaster? type of thing 5-10' high surrounded by water on a very narrow trail. came to the end and suppose i was to cross the water? i haven't a clue. I endoed twice the second time nearly spraining my ankle so i'm glad i've got clipless setup on the way! anyway i found it quite technical, it's a nice length once you find it all and is a blast if you live in st. pete/tampa and are sick of morris, hell it's only 15 minutes farther. I thought this trail was a blast, try it sometime. five stars because people are too anal reviewing trails when they're in florida and not living near ocala, the trail central!	Overall Rating:

Michael Varnum from Lakeland, Fl Date: June 15, 2000 Trail Ridden: Once a week
Recommended Route: Other recommended trails in the same area: Morris Bridge, Tampa....Great place to work on your riding skills. Lots of fun.
Review: Great Ride !! Was introduced to "The Beast" First time down happened so fast I really didn't comprehend what had just taken place. So the second trip down my confidence was much higher than my skill. I Kissed Mother Earth!!! The only thing I remember is fern rushing beneath my feet,and the crushing sounds of my helmet visor and glasses being smashed by my face!! Short ride day. E-room visit X-rays checked O.K. Work on your riding skills before getting too aggressive, but all trails are doable if you're careful. Looking foreward to riding "The Toe"	Overall Rating:

James R. Broome from Tampa, Florida Date: June 6, 2000 Trail Ridden: Once a week
Recommended Route: What does this mean? Recommended route to take to get there? Recommended route once you get there? What?? Other recommended trails in the same area: Bellview
Review: I have ridden there maybe 4 or 5 times. First time out - I had underestimated what to expect and ended up taking a bit of a spill down 'The Beast'. Cracked my helmet, scraped my leg, elbow, knee and back and subsquently had to have my wife put my shoes and socks on since I was no longer able to reach them!!! Heh heh. Guess a little good comes from everything, huh? Anyway, second trip out was the very next weekend. Took it a little easier and had quite a bit of fun. Trail contains quite a few areas of extremely difficult off-camber climbs and descents (for a low-level/intermediate rider like myself). There are quite a few places where a bad line can take you down a 30 foot drop into alligator infested waters, so attention to what you're doing is pretty important. On the other hand, there are also a few miles of double track and dirt roads mixed into the park itself. The backside of 'The Beast' can be challenging without being dangerous, along with the end of 'Roller Coaster' (I still don't see how anyone makes it all the way to the top of that). Not nearly the amount of trails as are in Bellview, but a Lakeland trip can be good for a couple of hours if you do alot of the technical stuff or do 2 laps of the main section. Newbies (like myself) may find Lakeland a bit too challenging - or just plain scary due to the heights in some places - but after 4 trips out, I've become much more at ease with what is there. I'm pretty sure advanced riders will find it somewhat boring due to the lack of really technical areas. Although very technical parts exist, they are off the main trail and most do not connect to anything - so you have to ride them out, then back instead of continuing through.	Overall Rating:

Richard Glover from Chuluota,FL Date: May 15, 2000 Trail Ridden: Ridden Once
Recommended Route: the other review directions are good but if traveling I-4 from Orlando be sure to use Polk Parkway and have $3 for tolls, then go south on Hwy 37, almost every known franchise restaurant is on the road, the last on the left is Burger King, which is just before Carter Road Other recommended trails in the same area: I hear TOE is very difficult
Review: seems to be confusion over the "right" trail route. Some friendly locals set me up. When you go into the park bare to left then go straight until you can't go any farther. Up a sand/jeep trail is a hill (Sprinkler Hill) at the top go straight on to some good single track (nice use of rubber strips on the hill climbs) after the hill keep baring along to the left along the water there's several little ins and outs somewhere farther on there's a clay road where you turn left and go a ways and there are more ins and outs along the water to the left. Some loop, some are out and back, some are easy and fun, some are very difficult and challenging fun. Watch for tire tracks from other riders, eventually you'll come back to the clay road you had turned left on much earlier, turn left again and in a short your back into the main part of the park	Overall Rating:

Shane from Largo Date: April 24, 2000 Trail Ridden: Once a week
Recommended Route: I-4 to exit 15A. Take Polk Parkway to exit 7 (S. Fl Ave) and take a right. Go until you come to the Burger King on the right (Sheldon). Take the first left past B.K. (Carter Rd.). Take next right (Carter Rd. Park) and you are there. Other recommended trails in the same area: Morris Bridge (It's not too bad)
Review: I am just getting into riding but I find this trail pretty challenging. I've only been there 3 times. The first was during a race so I didn't ride much. I went the following Saturday and Sunday. On Sunday, I rode the whole trail and it was great. I even saw a Panther which was extremely cool. The end of the trail is with out a doubt the most technical. The begining is a lot of fun with all of the twists and turns. I recommand this trail to anyone who wants some excitment.	Overall Rating:

Thomas E. Seaman from Melbourne Date: April 3, 2000 Trail Ridden: Ridden Once
Recommended Route: Other recommended trails in the same area:
Review: My first time through I was escorted by some local riders. Some parts of the "beast" are not rideable for beginners or intermidiates like me. The trail through the upper ridge was nice but not challenging. I really enjoyed those three 1.5 jumps on that little down hill action. But I guess I missed the extra 7 miles of trail that are mentioned in some of the other reviews. Overall for the locals this is a nice place to ride but not worth a travel time of more than an hour unless you combine your trip with the TOE. Now there's a trail!!!	Overall Rating:

Meeksness from Clearwater Date: February 13, 2000 Trail Ridden: Once a week
Recommended Route: same Other recommended trails in the same area:
Review: This trail rocks. Those who disagree have not ridden the entire loop. Granted it's continuity is difficult to find, but if you can hook up with someone who knows the loop, you will not be disappointed. It wouldn't be a part of the FLA NORBA race series if it was anything less. If you're into extreme riding, try the three dead end ridges along the north side. Props to the Lakeland Ridge Riders for one great trail.	Overall Rating:

Mike Rhodes from Lakeland,Fl Date: November 21, 1999 Trail Ridden: Please Select
Recommended Route: Other recommended trails in the same area: Dont know Of anymore around here... but wish i did . if anyone knows of some let me know..
Review: This trail is a great one ! It has a pretty good assortment of Trails, from tight winding trails to high hills and pretty good jumps.This trail is for anyone who likes to ride. It can definatly	Overall Rating:

Ridge Rider Pres from Lakeland, FL Date: November 17, 1999 Trail Ridden: Once a week
Recommended Route: same Other recommended trails in the same area: The Toe Trail ROCKS!
Review: This trail works best if ridden clockwise. If you're having trouble finding your way, ask a local. The rednecks tore down alot of the arrows. This is one of the best trails in Central Florida, only second to the Toe Trail in Lakeland, (which is for Ridge Rider club members only - email for more info...)	Overall Rating:

Eric from Lakeland Date: November 11, 1999 Trail Ridden: Once a week
Recommended Route: I-4 to Polk County Parkway, south on South Florida Ave. to Carter Rd, east 1-2 miles, sign on right. Other recommended trails in the same area:
Review: Took me about five trips out there to find the entire route. The first time, I only found one small trail, about 1 mile and left very dissapointed. Then a friend of mine found the "gateway" to the rest of the track, and after a couple of more trips we had the whole place mapped out, and it's awesome! There is still one trail (the last one in line) that neither of us can master, so the challenge is there if you want it. The entire 7 miles is fun and maintained and has plenty of elevation change. Beautiful scenery also.	Overall Rating:

Tony from Miami Date: November 2, 1999 Trail Ridden: Please Select
Recommended Route: same as above Other recommended trails in the same area: I've been to TSALI, twice...
Review: Please do not post a review of a trail if you never found it!!! Yes, bud there are 7 miles of great singletrack here, s e v e n m i l e s, not counting the jeep roads that you obviously spend some time lost on. Pick up a trail map, their free!	Overall Rating:

Craig from Jupiter, Fl Date: August 22, 1999 Trail Ridden: Ridden Once
Recommended Route: Directions above are very good Other recommended trails in the same area: Santos, that trail has "something for everyone", sorry this is for intermediate or better riders.
Review: A disapointment! The jeep roads are overgrown that connect the woods sections. Very easy to get lost! Arrows go both ways on the trails because races are run backwards. Find a local to show you the way unless you enjoy backpedalling. Other trails blow this away, but then again I don't know if I ever found the 7 miles stated above. Might be an exageration. Not a trail for begineers after a rain. The soil is clay like and that combined with wet roots put the girls into scared mode. I,m sure it will be better when raced on next month.	Overall Rating:

Inked from Fla,,, VA Date: August 14, 1999 Trail Ridden: Please Select
Recommended Route: Off of I-4 , take the new Polk County expressway to exit for SR 37 and the to Cartwer road. Cant miss it. Other recommended trails in the same area: Hard Rock,, Northport,, Morris Bridge (sucks)
Review: The trail is something for everyone. The D-Rock from Tampa guy obviously was unable to find much single track but it is all there and pleanty of it. Just look. The ridges are a blast and a challenge at times. it can be fast or casual. The only complaint might be in the trail markings. Not always consistant but good enough if you pay attention. the best part is the beauty of it all. There is a hose and shower between the soccer fields.	Overall Rating:

D-Rock from Tampa, FL Date: August 4, 1999 Trail Ridden: Every few months
Recommended Route: Go somewhere else. Other recommended trails in the same area: Morris Bridge, Hard Rock, Croom
Review: I don't know what trails the others were riding, but this place sucks! If you want to spend your day riding down jeep roads looking for the few sectons of single track, this is the place for you! Of all the trails I've ridden in Florida this place is the worst. The ridges are all hype and no substance. Take it from a native Floridian, old phosphate pits are great for moto-x, but terrible for mtb. If you want real elevation go to Tsali.	Overall Rating:

Tony from Miami Date: June 29, 1999 Trail Ridden: Ridden Once
Recommended Route: follow directions provided above. Other recommended trails in the same area: don't know...
Review: Wow! nice trail system, i commend the "Ridge riders" for doing a smashing job, yea baby! technical, steep, fast, beautiful surroundings, saw a gator on my first lap! I drove up from Miami for the day just to do this trail, well worth the 3 hour drive, keep up the good work.	Overall Rating:

Mark from Lakeland Date: April 26, 1999 Trail Ridden: Once a week
Recommended Route: From I-4 go south on SR. 37 Exit 18, Travel 12 miles to Carter Rd. Turn left go half mile to Carter Park entrance on right. Other recommended trails in the same area: Hard Rock Ocala, Santos Trail Belleview, Morris Bridge Tampa.
Review: This trail has all types of terrain from winding singletrack to fast jeep roads, to very technical ridge trails which are rocky and leave no room for mistakes. This is a great trail, there are only a few places in Florida which offer elevation change and this is one of them.	Overall Rating:

rebr from Lakeland Date: March 29, 1999 Trail Ridden: Once a week
Recommended Route: Other recommended trails in the same area:
Review: Lots of fun for beginners to experts. Trails wind in and out of the woods, over and along steep ridges between phosphate pits, covering multiple terrains and skill levels.	Overall Rating:

Randy from Ocala Date: March 27, 1999 Trail Ridden: Every few months
Recommended Route: Other recommended trails in the same area:
Review: Lakeland is a really fun place to ride. Only a few challenging techical sections, but the ridges between the pits can be a blast. A real scorcher in the hot months. One of the better places to ride, worth the trip.	Overall Rating:

Ridge Rider from Lakeland Date: January 22, 1999 Trail Ridden: Once a week
Recommended Route: Other recommended trails in the same area:
Review: This trail has it all. The verts are steep and flats are fast. Watch out when you get to "The Beast"; it's a doosey! There's a tree at the bottom that bites. Also, there are a lot of locals that will be glad to show you the trail. Call Bent's Schwin in Lakeland if you want more info on the trail, like race dates. Overall this trail rocks!	Overall Rating: