The Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail is a beloved Florida rail-trail stretching nearly 40 miles through Pinellas County, offering scenic cycling, walking, and a window into the region's coastal communities.
The Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail was developed on the former right-of-way of the Orange Belt Railway, later the Seaboard Coast Line Railroad. When rail service ended, Pinellas County converted the corridor into a paved multi-use trail, opening it in stages through the 1990s. Named for a longtime Pinellas County commissioner, the trail has since become a defining recreational asset for the region.
Cyclists, joggers, inline skaters, and walkers all share the smooth asphalt surface, which runs through urban centers, quiet residential neighborhoods, and stretches of open Florida scrubland. The northern end near Tarpon Springs carries a distinctly small-town feel, while the southern reaches approach the waterfront energy of St. Petersburg. Along the way, you can take a short detour toward Honeymoon Island State Park, one of the most visited state parks in Florida.
Trailhead parks offer restrooms, benches, and bike racks at regular intervals. Bike rentals are available from several outfitters near the trail, making it accessible even for visitors without their own equipment. The route also passes near enough to the coast that a side trip to Clearwater Beach is easy to fold into a longer ride.
For anyone wanting to experience Pinellas County beyond the beaches, the Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail offers an honest, ground-level view of the communities that make this corner of Florida worth exploring.
Ride the northern segment on a weekday morning to enjoy quieter stretches through Tarpon Springs and Dunedin before crowds arrive.
Bring sunscreen and a full water bottle, as shade is limited along several open sections of the trail.
Lock your bike and detour into downtown Dunedin for a meal or a craft beer, as the trail passes directly through the heart of town.
Visit in winter or early spring when temperatures are mild and the trail is at its most comfortable for long rides.
Keep an eye out for posted trailhead maps, as the route has several spurs and connector paths worth exploring on a second visit.
Cruise farther with pedal assist, throttle power, and a comfortable suspension seat
Pedal-assist and throttle rides for exploring the Pinellas Trail