Biking at Big Cypress National Preserve
See the Backcountry web page for maps to access points.
Bikes are allowed on the Fire Prairie Trail; the dirt road along the Levee 28 canal; the raised dirt road called Nobles Grade north of Mile Marker 63 on I-75 (both in the Additions Backcountry Unit); and any roads in Big Cypress National Preserve that vehicles are allowed on, both paved and dirt. In the backcountry of Bear Island, Turner River, and Corn Dance there are over 200 miles of what are essentially dirt roads known as “Primary Trails.” In the wet season (May-October) most of these are underwater, but during the dry season they are passable. Keep in mind that just because it is November 1st that the roads don’t turn dry overnight, and even during the middle of winter some roads may still be packed with mud holes that you must carry your bike around.
On a recent bike trip in Bear Island, my assistant and I got 13 miles into a 15-mile loop ride when suddenly we came to mud holes that got deeper and deeper as we waded through them. Not knowing what was up ahead, we decided to turn around and bike all the way back with the sun rapidly going down. Up to that point, other than some puddles, the roads were fine (see above photo). Keep in mind that a park Ranger told us the roads were clear, which just goes to show that nobody knows the condition of every road in the backcountry.
Deep mud on the roads in Bear Island during the dry season, Big Cypress National Preserve
Primary Trails provide visitors to the park, both bikers and hikers, the opportunity to see the backcountry without the hassle of obtaining an Off-Road Driving permit (assuming you have a 4-Wheel Drive, swamp buggy, or ATV). The terrain is flat and easy to walk or bike. The only way biking could get better is if all trails were downhill both ways.
Permits are no longer required to hike or bike in the backcountry of Big Cypress National Preserve. However, be sure to let somebody know of your plans and who to notify (a Park Ranger) should you not return as scheduled.
Primary “trail” in the Bear Island Backcountry Unit of Big Cypress National Preserve
Typical Primary Road during the dry season in the Turner River Backcountry Unit of Big Cypress National Preserve
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Last updated on July 13, 2026
