Fort Pickens Bike Route
Explore the 15.3-mile bike route through Fort Pickens, which takes about one hour and 15 minutes to complete. This scenic ride features key waypoints like Fort Pickens, Battery Payne, Battery 234, and Langdon Beach.
Things To See Along The Way
This bike route takes you through the scenic and historical areas of Fort Pickens, offering a mix of natural beauty and rich heritage. Starting from the Fort Pickens Entrance, the route guides you along several points of interest:
- Fort Pickens Entrance: Begin your ride at the entrance to Fort Pickens. Note that there is an entrance fee to access the area.
- Battery Langdon: Battery Langdon is another historic defense structure that once housed the largest guns in the area. It could fire one-foot-diameter projectiles nearly 17 miles. Hike to the top for amazing views and to learn about the area's military past.
- Battery Worth: Completed in 1899, Battery Worth was a crucial part of coastal defense. It housed eight 12-inch mortars and later became a Harbor Defense Command Post. These structures give explorers great views of the National Seashore.
- Florida National Scenic Trail: A segment of the route takes you onto a portion of the Florida National Scenic Trail. This section of the trail has a crushed shell path that makes biking possible in a mostly sandy environment.
- Fort Pickens is the main fort area. It has restrooms, a gift shop, and several forts to explore.
- Fort Pickens Ferry Pier: Ride toward the Fort Pickens Ferry Pier, which the Pensacola Bay City Ferry uses. During the season, users can take the ferry to downtown Pensacola and the Pensacola Beach boardwalk, and bikes are allowed on the ferry.
- Fort Pickens Fishing Pier: Continue to the Fishing Pier, a favorite location for fishing and enjoying the coastal views.
- Battery Payne: This historic spot offers excellent views of the Gulf of Mexico and the Pensacola Pass.
- Battery 234: This structure offers a glimpse into the area's military history, with remnants of fortifications and a vantage point highlighting the location's significance. It is a great stop with views of coastal dunes and the Gulf of Mexico.
- Langdon Beach: Continue your ride to Langdon Beach, a peaceful spot where you can unwind, enjoy a picnic, use the restroom facilities, and take a dip in the Gulf.
This bike route provides an enjoyable cycling experience and an opportunity to explore Fort Pickens's fascinating history, complete with its military relics and scenic Gulf views.