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At General James A. Van Fleet State Trail, the landscape transitions from lush cedar-filled swamps of the Green Swamp and Withlacoochee State Forest, to former citrus groves and cattle ranches, with a mix of pines and hardwoods in between. Spanning 29.2 miles with only one curve, you can leisurely observe the abundant wildlife or opt for a brisk pace. The trail is mostly shaded by a diverse array of trees, with wildflowers flourishing in the spring and fall.

Keep an eye out for various wildlife such as alligators, turkeys, deer, gopher tortoises, rabbits, and the distinctive Sherman’s fox squirrel. Snakes of all kinds bask in the warmth of the pavement, so proceed with caution and appreciate the unique sights not typically found in your own backyard.

You may also encounter livestock along the way, from grazing cattle and goats to the intriguing alpacas. An alpaca farm lies just 1.5 miles north of the Polk City trail head.

Following Hurricane Irma in September 2017, the trail was affected by fallen trees. While efforts were made to clear the path, there may still be newly fallen trees, overhanging branches, and uneven surfaces. Please use the trail at your own discretion.

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