Rails to Trails Bike Tour

A Ride Through History

In celebration of the 12th Annual Gullah Geechee Festival, the North Florida Bicycle Club hosts the Rails to Trails Bike Tour at Armstrong Park in Elkton on Saturday, December 6, 2025 from 12:00 to 5:00 p.m. The bike tour follows parts of the Palatka to St. Augustine State Trail, a 19-mile asphalt path that winds through the communities of Elkton, Armstrong, Hastings, and East Palatka. Originally part of a Rails-to-Trails project, the trail runs parallel to State Road 207 and offers scenic views of mixed woodlands and rural landscapes.

The Rails to Trails Bike Tour is open to both cyclists and walkers, with guides available for each group. Enjoy a scenic journey through historical sites and landmarks, with the option to complete as much of the tour as you'd like. Along the way, encounter several significant locations that highlight the area's history.

After the tour, return to live music, performances, and artists. Along with the festivities, uncover Gullah Geechee culture, savor Low Country cuisine, browse unique crafts, and enjoy a variety of carefully-curated exhibits.

The funds raised from the Rails to Trails Bike Tour and Gullah Geechee Festival directly support programs for children and families in these communities. The goal is to help residents overcome challenges such as homelessness and poverty by providing access to essential resources like food banks, medical assistance, after-school programs, and more.

Event Information

Admission: Free.

When: The Gullah Geechee Festival's main event is Saturday, December 6, 2025, from noon to 5:00 p.m. The bike tour takes place within that time, enabling you to enjoy the rest of the Gullah Geechee Festival after the ride.

Where: Armstrong Park, 4950 Harvey Avenue, Elkton, Florida 32033

About the Gullah Geechee Festival: The festival features special events and main activities throughout the day. Check back for detailed schedules.

Find out more about the Gullah Geechee Festival

About SEA: SEA (Spuds, Elkton, and Armstrong) was established to support the rural communities west of St. Augustine, where descendants of West Africans, known as the Gullah Geechee, settled in the late 17th century. These communities, along with others in coastal areas of Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina, form part of the Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor. Local organizations are working to preserve and share the rich history of the Gullah Geechee culture. The annual SEA Rails to Trails Festival is the organization’s primary fundraising event. It showcases historical booths with Gullah Geechee artifacts, displays, DVDs, traditional Gullah home-cooked meals, and signage that highlights the area's rich cultural history.