If you like to ride, Citrus County is the place to be! What's better than jumping on your bike, enjoying the wind in your hair and of course the beautiful views of the Gulf of Mexico? Well, how about putting your tired feet in the sand and then cooling off by taking a dip in the saltwater? Maybe enjoying fresh blue crab and a Margarita while watching the sunset over the water is more your style? Either way, two unique local roadways will take your breath away!
Two of the most popular and scenic routes in the area are the Ozello Trail and Fort Island Trail. Both run conveniently right off of US-19, expose you to gorgeous, twisting landscapes, and are one straight 'run to the sun'!! The drive down Ft. Island Trail is breathtaking, with new scenery around every corner. Near the end of Ft. Island is our local salt-water beach and a lovely pier that offers super views of the Gulf and nightly dolphin shows for the lucky!
The trip out Ozello Trial has even more twists and turns that will run through multiple ecosystems. The ride is almost surreal; at times there's water and wildlife all around you!! Ozello is such a hotspot for bikers, that a great motorcycle movie was filmed on that very road! "Running Cool" was filmed in part on Ozello Trail in 1993. The lead character was played by Dedee Pfeiffer, Michelle Pfeiffer's younger sister. Another motorcycle movie was recently wrapped in the area as well. Due for release soon, 'Nation's Fire' stars Bruce Dern, Chuck Liddell, and Krista Grotte. This movie was filmed, in part, at Scooter Haven in Inglis, just a short ride North from Crystal River and certainly worth a stop! Citrus County is definitely a hot spot for bike enthusiasts!
If you head down Ozello Trail, don't miss the SeaHagg deli for an awesome pressed Cuban or fresh salad, or try Backwater Fins for the daily catch and relaxed atmosphere. Local favorite 'Peck's Old Port Cove’ is near to the end of Ozello, and they are known for their fresh blue crab (check out the tables in the back) and seafood delicacies. Sit outside and sip a tropical drink, the view does not disappoint and dolphins come in regularly!
Citrus County is a mecca for riders and most businesses will welcome you with open arms!! Don't miss High Octane or Mickey's Pub for a special night out with live music and great people. Plan your trip on one of our awesome festival weekends where pirates, art&wine, manatees, stone crabs, or mermaids are the stars... you name it; we probably have a festival to celebrate it! Whether coming for a day ride or staying to enjoy some local adventure; this area has it all waiting for you... and it's just a bike ride away!