STORY & PHOTOGRAPHY BY: JOSHUA JACOBS
The Great Outdoors
Now that the weather is cooling down, Ocala comes alive with an array of outdoor experiences that are perfect for enjoying the crisp, comfortable air. From high-flying thrills to peaceful woodland trails, the city offers activities that showcase the region’s natural beauty and adventurous spirit. Whether you’re looking to soar above spring-fed lakes, bike through pine forests, skate a world-class park, or hike shaded pathways, there’s something here for every kind of explorer.
The Canyons Zip Line & Adventure Park
The Canyons Zip Line & Adventure Park in Ocala offers a one-of-a-kind outdoor experience, set against a backdrop of towering limestone cliffs, spring-fed lakes, and lush Florida forest. Known for the Big Cliff Canyon Tour featuring nine zip lines, two sky bridges, and a rappel, with lines soaring up to 155 feet high and stretching more than 1,100 feet, the park delivers both breathtaking scenery and thrilling adventure. With additional options like treetop runs, nighttime tours, kayaking, and horseback riding, The Canyons stands out as one of Central Florida’s most distinctive and unforgettable destinations.
The Santos Trail System
The Santos Trail System in Ocala is one of Florida’s top destinations for mountain biking, offering more than 80 miles of trails that wind through pine forests, hardwood hammocks, and former limestone quarries. Recognized by the International Mountain Bicycling Association as a Bronze-level Ride Center, Santos provides options for every rider, from smooth beginner loops to technical terrain and the famed Vortex freeride area with its drops, ramps, and quarry walls. With trailhead amenities, camping nearby, and connections to the Cross Florida Greenway, Santos blends outdoor adventure with accessibility, making it a standout attraction for cyclists and nature lovers alike.
The Ocala Skatepark
The Ocala Skatepark is a dynamic addition to the city’s growing recreation scene, offering a dedicated space for skaters of all ages and abilities. The park currently features a 10,000-square-foot street course and is set to expand with a 6,000-square-foot addition that will include a competition-sized bowl, snake run, and beginner area, scheduled for completion in early 2026. Whether revisiting the sport for nostalgia or picking up a skateboard for the first time, visitors will find the Ocala Skatepark a vibrant community hub and an exciting way to enjoy the outdoors.
Indian Lake Bear-N-Oak Trail
The Bear-N-Oak Trail at Indian Lake offers a peaceful 1.4-mile loop that winds through a landscape of towering oaks, cypress knees, and pine flatwoods before circling back to the lake’s white sandy shore. With its level terrain and minimal obstacles, the trail is especially well-suited for beginners or those seeking a leisurely walk surrounded by natural beauty. Open daily from sunrise to sunset and welcoming leashed pets, it provides a serene and accessible way to enjoy Ocala’s diverse ecosystems—free of charge.
Silver Springs Conservation Area
Tucked within the growing Silver Springs community, the Silver Springs Conservation Area features a 2.3-mile network of shaded trails ideal for both short strolls and longer hikes. The paths weave through a mix of evergreens and hardwoods, creating a tranquil setting alive with birdsong. While the narrower routes and multiple intersections require attention to signage, the flexibility in distance makes it a versatile option for walkers of all skill levels. Open from sunrise to sunset with no entry fee and pet-friendly on leash, it remains a hidden gem for quiet outdoor exploration.
No matter your pace or preference, Ocala’s outdoor spaces reward curiosity and a sense of adventure. Each trail, park, and course offers its own surprises—whether it’s a hidden vista, a challenging drop, or the quiet beauty of a shaded forest path. With so much to explore, every visit promises new experiences, making Ocala a destination where adventure is always just around the corner.





