Pinellas Trail
The Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail is a 75-mile paved multi-use trail built on a former railroad corridor running the length of Pinellas County. While primarily a cycling and walking trail, the parallel roads offer a scenic driving route through historic downtowns, coastal communities, and waterfront parks along Florida's Gulf Coast. The trail connects Tarpon Springs, Dunedin, Clearwater, Largo, Seminole, and St. Petersburg.
Route Overview
Driving the roads parallel to the Pinellas Trail from Tarpon Springs south to St. Petersburg takes you through the heart of Pinellas County's charming communities. Each town along the route has its own character, from the Greek sponge diving heritage of Tarpon Springs to the Scottish roots of Dunedin and the urban energy of downtown St. Petersburg.
Stops Along the Way
1. Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks
Start at the historic Sponge Docks, where Greek sponge divers settled over a century ago. The waterfront district has Greek restaurants, bakeries, boat tours, and sponge shops.
2. Downtown Dunedin
A walkable Scottish-themed downtown with craft breweries (Dunedin Brewery is Florida's oldest), restaurants, art galleries, and the Pinellas Trail running right through the middle.
3. Caladesi Island State Park
Accessible by ferry from Honeymoon Island, Caladesi is consistently rated among the top beaches in the United States. Pristine white sand, clear water, and a mangrove kayak trail.
4. Clearwater Beach
One of Florida's most famous beaches with sugar-white sand and clear Gulf waters. Pier 60 has nightly sunset celebrations with street performers and artisans.
5. Largo Central Park
A beautiful 70-acre park in the center of Largo with nature trails, a recreation complex, and regular outdoor events and festivals.
6. Walsingham Park
A hidden gem with trails through pine flatwoods, a narrows boardwalk, and access to the Pinellas Trail. The park connects to other preserves creating miles of nature trails.
7. Downtown St. Petersburg
End in the vibrant heart of St. Pete with world-class museums (The Dali, Museum of Fine Arts), murals, craft breweries, waterfront parks, and the St. Pete Pier.
Driving Tips
- The Pinellas Trail parallels Alternate US-19 and local roads - follow signs for the trail communities
- Parking in downtown Dunedin and Clearwater Beach fills quickly on weekends - arrive before noon
- Each community along the trail has a distinct character - budget time for exploring, not just driving through
- The Gulf Coast has spectacular sunsets year-round - plan your drive to end in St. Pete or Clearwater at sunset
Official Resources
Group Road Trip? BusBrother provides charter bus service along this route. Let a professional driver handle the road while your group enjoys the scenery. Get a free quote.