Croom Hiking Trails

A pleasant ramble along the Withlacoochee River, the Croom River Trail segment of the Florida Trail stretches 6.3 linear miles.

The southern section starts near river level, eventually climbing onto bluffs. Tunnel through oak hammocks and slip past cypress swamps while marveling at massive trees.

Leashed dogs welcome. Day use only. Camping at designated campgrounds (Crooked River, Cypress Glen, Silver Lake) must be reserved in advance.
Check river levels before attempting this section as the south end of this trail will be swamped by high water on the Withlacoochee River.
Check on hunting seasons before hiking. Wear bright orange during hunts.

Directions: Take Interstate 75 exit 301 for SR 50 east towards Ridge Manor. Drive a mile to the light at Croom-Rital Road and turn left. The southern trailhead is on the right after a quarter mile. The northern trailhead is roughly 2.5 miles north at the Croom Trail sign and trail crossing.
Hike
From the sign-in at the Ridge Manor trailhead — and the number of people we encountered — this is a popular piece of the Florida Trail for good reason.

It’s a favorite of Scout troops for a merit badge hike. It’s also one of the hikes that qualify for the Florida State Forests Trailwalker Program.