Rail To Trail - The Legacy Trail, Venice FL
The Legacy Trail is the largest public recreation project, also one of the most popular recreation areas in Sarasota county Florida. Thousands of cyclists, walkers, joggers, and roller blade enthusiasts use this trail every day to exercise and relax.
History of the Rail to Trail
In 1911, the Seaboard Airline Railway was extended to Venice, opened to serve the citizens in 1927 by transporting lumber, members of the Kentucky Military Institute in 1932, members of the Venice Army Air Base in 1942, and members of the Ringling Bros & Barnum & Bailey Circus in 1946. Due to deterioration, the train tracks were no longer usable in 1992. After years of planning, finally a county partnership with the Trust for Public Land spent $11.75 million to purchase the more than 12.5 miles of scenic railroad corridor in 2005.
Legacy Trail is
Along more than 10 miles length of Legacy Trail, is a place to see wildlife, enjoy nature – trees, bushes, bays, sunsets, discover local history, and have fun doing outdoor activities . It is one of the best ways to experience what makes Sarasota County the jewel of the gulf coast.
Trailheads along the Legacy Trail
only part of the original railroad & the new legacy trail at Oscar Scherer State Park
There is parking at 7901 McIntosh Road, Sarasota.
Bay Street Park at 300 Bay Street, Osprey
Oscar Scherer State Park at 1843 South Tamiami Trail, Osprey
Laurel Park at 509 Collins Road, Laurel
Nokomis Park at 234 Nippino Trail East, Nokomis
Patriots Park at 800 Venetia Bay Blvd., Venice
Venice Train Depot at 303 East Venice Ave. Venice
You may continue the trail to Venetian Waterway Park, along both sides of the Intracoastal Waterway to:
VABI (Venice Area Beautification Inc) at 257 North Tamiami Trail, Venice
Caspersen Beach at 4100 Harbor Drive, Venice
Shamrock Park at 3900 Shamrock Drive, Venice
Trail Rules
The rules are designed to ensure everyone can enjoy all the features of the trails in safety.
Courtesy – stay to the right, and let others pass on your left.
Consideration – when the trail is crowded, slow down and pull off the trail to chat
Control – cyclists and skaters should be in control and obey the 15 mph speed limit at all times.
Open – from sunrise to sunset
Motorized vehicles are prohibited
Pets allowed on a maximum six foot leash
No littering
Cyclists under 16 years old must wear a helmet
Complete list of rules can be found at all the trailheads.
Enjoy, have fun and discover your Rail to Trail – The Legacy Trail, Venice FL
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