General James A. Van Fleet State Trail, Rail trail and state park in central Florida, United States.
The General James A. Van Fleet State Trail is a paved pathway running approximately 29 miles through central Florida. The route passes through wetlands, pine forests, and ranch lands with four access points offering parking, restrooms, and water.
The pathway follows a former railroad line of the Seaboard Air Line that operated the Silver Meteor passenger service until 1988. After the railroad closed, the route was converted into a public walking trail.
The trail honors General James A. Van Fleet, a military officer who served across multiple 20th-century conflicts. Visitors encounter this historical connection woven into the pathway's identity and local memory.
The pathway is flat and paved, making it accessible for most visitors regardless of fitness level. Bring plenty of water and sun protection since shade is limited along the route.
The pathway runs almost perfectly straight with just one curve along its entire length. This unusually direct alignment was a feature of the original railroad design.
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