BIKE & EXPLORE the vast Duette Preserve (with picnic) - NO SKINNY TIRES PLEASE

Join us on a new adventure within the Duette Preserve. This time we will not hike but bike and explore some of the over 30 miles of trails. They will mostly consist of hard-packed sand with occasional gravel but can also be soft or grassy in parts. This event is not suited for bikes with skinny tires!

With over 21,000 acres, the Duette Preserve is the largest Preserve in Manatee County. It is located in the northeastern part of the County and contains the headwaters of Manatee River.

It is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including species of special concern such as the burrowing owl, snowy egret, white ibis, gopher tortoise, and at least three endangered/threatened species, the Florida scrub jay, the Florida panther, and the Eastern indigo snake.

During past hikes we encountered lots of deer, fighting bucks, turkeys, eagles, hawks, a bobcat, possum, wild boar, sandhill cranes and plenty of other birds. At one occasion we even listened to the howling sound of coyotes.

It will be unlikely that we will see another human being during our little adventure. But no worries, in the meantime there are several spots within the preserve where we will have cell phone reception.

Our bike route will depend on the group but we will try to explore as many sections of the preserve as possible. Overall, there are more than 30 miles of trails but it is unlikely that we will ride them all.
During our excursion we will check out a shaded pavilion nestled among hundred year old oak trees and cross a creek that feeds the Manatee River.

If it is not too hot, we will enjoy our picnic on a wooden outlook, a highlight within the preserve. Views are just incredible, you might not want to leave😅.

At this point it is hard to predict when we will be finished. We prefer to go with the flow and call it a day out in nature. So please don't schedule anything else after the event. If you are tight on time, you will have to return to the car by yourself.

Please come prepared! Wear sunscreen and bring along plenty of water, you will need it. Don't forget to bring your own food for the picnic and check your bikes before the ride.

As always, if you have questions or need directions, you can contact us at (917)774-0941.