It's time again for the GCC's famous Chilly Chili Picnic at Oleno State Park.  The picnic is on Saturday, January 28 at Oleno State Park, various bike rides will begin about 9 a.m., food starts about noon.

 

Oleno State Park has several riding possibilities.  A new paved bike trail goes all the way to Branford (25 miles).  There are quiet rural roads around Oleno.  There are dirt trails in the Park, some of which are several hundred years old, and Florida's first Federal Road, the Bellemy Road, built in 1826, crosses the park.  Ride leaders may want to organize a ride that would suit their group. 

 

The dirt trails in Oleno are somewhat tame for serious mountain bike riders, but you might want to try them.  Another idea would be for the off-road riders to ride at San Felasco and then drive (15-20 minutes) up to Oleno for food.

 

The new paved bike trail is the perfect ride for families.  The trail starts in Oleno, goes to Fort White, continues to the south entrance to the Ichetucknee and on into Branford.

For you thrift store/yard sale shoppers, there is an excellent thrift store just one block off the trail in Fort White.  The paved trail is separated from the road and is very safe for beginning riders.

 

Florida's first Federal Highway, the Bellemy Road crosses Oleno.  Chandler will lead a history ride to visit the Bellemy Road,  Wire Road, and the old Spanish Trail (more than 300 years old).

 

Food begins about noon.  Please bring a small pot of chili or a side dish, salad or desert.  Chandler will make a huge pot of mild chili, guaranteed to offend no one. 

 

Following lunch, some people may want to go hiking on Oleno's excellent hiking trails.

 

Oleno State Park is 35 miles north of Gainesville on US 441.   Just drive north on US 441 and you'll find it.  We will meet at the picnic area by the Santa Fe River,  next to  the big parking lot at the end of the park entry road.  Admission to the park is $4.00 per careful of people, or $1 for those on bike.