Step back in time along the enchanting Dunnellon Trail, where the echoes of a bygone era blend seamlessly with the natural beauty of the present day. Reminiscent of the historic railroad bridges that graced the landscape back in the late 1800s, this 2.4-mile paved pathway weaves a captivating tapestry of history and allure. Discover the legacy of Dunnellon’s boomtown days, marked by the excitement of the phosphate discovery, a chapter still commemorated with annual festivities.
Tracing the footsteps of the past, the Dunnellon multi-use trail follows the path of an old railroad bed that hugs the Rainbow River, its course meandering south of County Road 484 and the renowned Blue Run Park, a favorite spot for tubers. Trailheads beckon adventurers along Bridges Road on the Marion County side of the Withlacoochee River, as well as County Road 39 to the east of U.S. 41 on the Citrus County stretch of the trail.
Unveiled to the public in May 2015, this beloved trail serves as a gateway to scenic delights and outdoor exploration. The crowning jewel is the grandeur of the Withlacoochee River trail bridge, a majestic structure uniting the two counties in a shared embrace of nature’s wonders. As visitors traverse the trail, a lively parade of wading birds, alligators, and other wildlife dances alongside, providing a captivating spectacle for all who stroll, jog, skate, or pedal through the serene landscape. Immerse yourself in the splendor of Dunnellon Trail, where each step carries echoes of a colorful past and whispers of a thriving future.