Gainesville - Hawthorne State Trail

Equestrian Facility in Gainesville, Florida

3(6 reviews)
(352) 466-33973400 SE 15th St, Gainesville, FL 32641View on Yelp
Gainesville - Hawthorne State Trail - equestrian in Gainesville, FL

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3
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6 reviews

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About Gainesville - Hawthorne State Trail

The Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail is a multi-use trail corridor in Gainesville, Florida, managed as part of the Florida State Parks system. With a 3.0 rating from 6 reviews, it's a trail that suits riders looking for a natural, unpaved experience through North Central Florida's flatwoods and wetlands. The 16-mile trail connects Gainesville to the town of Hawthorne, passing through habitats that include pine forests, scrub, and marshland. For horseback riders in Alachua County, this trail offers one of the only designated equestrian-friendly rail-trail experiences in the region.

Services

Hiking
Horseback Riding
Mountain Biking

Services & Process

The trail accommodates horseback riding, hiking, and mountain biking, with different user groups sharing the corridor on a generally informal basis. Equestrian users can bring their own horses and ride the unpaved portion of the trail, which runs parallel to a paved section used by cyclists and hikers. Parking areas with trailer access are available at trailheads, making it practical to load and unload horses before and after a ride. There are no guided rides or rentals on-site, so visitors need to bring their own animals and equipment.

Service Area

The Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail is accessible from Gainesville on the western end and Hawthorne to the east, covering a stretch through Alachua County. Riders from Gainesville, Micanopy, Hawthorne, and surrounding communities use the trail regularly. The University of Florida area and nearby Paynes Prairie make this corner of North Florida a natural hub for outdoor recreation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail open to horses?
Yes, the unpaved portion of the trail is open to equestrian use. Horses are not permitted on the paved section, so riders should stay on the natural surface trail and check for any posted closures before heading out.
Is there trailer parking available at the trailheads?
Yes, there are trailhead areas that can accommodate horse trailers, though space is limited and can fill up on busy weekends. Arriving early on popular trail days is a good idea to secure a spot.
Are dogs allowed on the trail when riding horses?
Dogs are allowed on the trail but must be kept on a leash at all times. If you're riding a horse, having a loose or unpredictable dog nearby can create a safety issue, so keep that in mind when planning a group outing.
What is the trail surface like for horses?
The equestrian section is a natural unpaved surface that varies from packed dirt to sandy soil. After significant rainfall, some sections can become wet or soft, so it's worth calling the park at (352) 466-3397 to ask about current conditions before trailering out.
Are there any facilities like restrooms or water stations along the trail?
Facilities are limited along the trail, so riders should bring their own water for both themselves and their horses. Restrooms are available at some trailheads but are not consistently spaced along the full 16-mile route.
Do I need a permit or pass to ride horses on the Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail?
Florida State Parks trails sometimes require a trail use fee or honor system payment depending on the access point. Check with the park directly at (352) 466-3397 for the most current fee information before your visit.

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