AMERICA, ONE BEAUTIFUL ROAD AT A TIME

Florida Black Bear Scenic Byway

Florida
Take your time. Make a few stops. Enjoy the view.
The Florida Black Bear Scenic Byway in the Ocala National Forest · Public Domain. Photo by USDA Forest Service · Photo credits
THE JOURNEY IS THE REASON TO GO

Let the road set the pace.

The Florida Black Bear Scenic Byway in north central Florida is filled with long, uninterrupted stretches of natural Florida and pine-scented air. See an array of wildlife, lush subtropical vegetation, and springs with clear, crystalline water. Be sure to take advantage of the many recreational opportunities like camping, hiking, biking, fishing, swimming, boating, kayaking, and canoeing.

The experienceNational Scenic Byway
Start with this outlineChoose a section of the named byway
The Florida Black Bear Scenic Byway passes through unbroken miles of sand pine and xeric oak forest, some of the rarest natural habitat in North America. The photograph was taken from atop the historic Central Fire Tower, and gives a birds eye view of the highway and forest.
The Florida Black Bear Scenic Byway in the Ocala National Forest
Public Domain. Photo by USDA Forest Service · Photo credits
The roadway of the Florida Black Bear Scenic Byway is flanked by cabbage palms and oak trees. The left side of the road is land belonging to the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway, and the right side of the road are lands of the Silver River State Park. A sign with the silhouette of a black bear warns motorist to be cautious of bears on the roadway.
Florida Greenway and Silver River State Park
Public Domain. · Photo credits

Before you drive

Choose your stops before departure and check current road access, weather and vehicle suitability. A byway listing does not guarantee that every section or visitor facility is open.

Make it a satisfying day

Choose a realistic section, then allow time for viewpoints, a town stop and breaks. Scenic mileage rarely tells the whole story of how long an outing will take.

Match the road to your vehicle

Check the exact roads for your car, RV or motorcoach. Tunnel dimensions, turning space, grades and road surfaces can matter as much as distance.

Official route information ↗State road-condition links ↗

Route overview and designation: Federal Highway Administration, America’s Byways. Research: October 2026. This is a travel idea, not live navigation or a guarantee that the full route is open. Confirm exact roads, current conditions, parking and any attraction reservations before departure.