JUPITER SUP FIELD GUIDE
Pedal & Paddle: Bike the oak‑shaded trails, then glide the Loxahatchee’s cypress corridors
A four‑hour combo from Jupiter Outdoor Center that pairs a 10+‑mile, shaded bike ride with a two‑hour paddle on the Wild & Scenic Loxahatchee River—everything you need to plan the outing in one practical guide.
Pedal & Paddle: Bike the oak‑shaded trails, then glide the Loxahatchee’s cypress corridors.
Pedal & Paddle at Riverbend Park stitches two classic Florida landscapes into a single outing: wide, hard‑packed bike trails beneath towering oaks and pines, and a tannin‑stained, cypress‑lined stretch of the Wild & Scenic Loxahatchee River. The combo—two hours on land and two on water—invites families and nature lovers to watch for deer, otters, shorebirds and butterflies, and to pause for a picnic under authentic chickee huts scattered through the park.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Two worlds in one outing: shaded trails and ancient cypress
Riverbend Park’s terrain is deceptively varied: more than 10 miles of wide, shaded, hard‑packed trails for a relaxed bike ride, followed by a serene paddle through cypress‑lined channels on the Wild & Scenic Loxahatchee River that feels like stepping back into old Florida.
Consistent wildlife sightings from saddle and seat
Both the trails and river are active with wildlife: expect to see white‑tailed deer, turtles, otters and a variety of Florida birds as you move through the park’s mosaic of habitats.
Family‑friendly flow with picnic chickee stops
The combo is organized so each activity runs about two hours and can be taken in either order, with chickee huts available for a shaded picnic break—an easy rhythm for families, couples, or anyone wanting a full nature day without technical difficulty.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
You start at Jupiter Outdoor Center for a brief check‑in and gear run‑through, then set off on a gentle bike tour across shaded trails where wildlife sightings punctuate the ride. After a break—often at a chickee hut—you swap pedals for a paddle and drift downstream through a canopy of ancient cypress on a two‑hour stretch of the Loxahatchee, returning to shore to wrap up and return gear.
THE LANDSCAPE
Two worlds in one outing: shaded trails and ancient cypress
Riverbend Park’s terrain is deceptively varied: more than 10 miles of wide, shaded, hard‑packed trails for a relaxed bike ride, followed by a serene paddle through cypress‑lined channels on the Wild & Scenic Loxahatchee River that feels like stepping back into old Florida.
THE WILDLIFE
Consistent wildlife sightings from saddle and seat
Both the trails and river are active with wildlife: expect to see white‑tailed deer, turtles, otters and a variety of Florida birds as you move through the park’s mosaic of habitats.
THE ROUTE
Family‑friendly flow with picnic chickee stops
The combo is organized so each activity runs about two hours and can be taken in either order, with chickee huts available for a shaded picnic break—an easy rhythm for families, couples, or anyone wanting a full nature day without technical difficulty.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this outing suits—and who should check details first.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Water bottle, sunscreen, bug spray, hat and sunglasses, snacks or a packed lunch for chickee huts, and a phone or camera (waterproof bags are available to rent).
Comfortable, quick‑dry clothing and water shoes or shoes you don’t mind getting wet—you may get a little wet during the paddle; bring a towel and a change of clothes if desired.
Waterproof bags for electronics are available to rent; light snacks and beverages can be purchased on site if you arrive without supplies.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Bike & Paddle Combo experience?
Each activity—biking and kayaking—typically takes about two hours, for a total of roughly four hours; you can choose the order and your pace.
Do I need prior experience to join?
No—this combo is beginner‑friendly; staff provide basic instructions and safety tips before you head out.
What type of bikes and boats are provided?
Beach cruiser single‑speed bikes are provided; for paddling the operator offers single and tandem kayaks, larger kayaks that fit two adults and a small child, and canoes.
Do I need to know how to swim?
All participants must wear a life jacket while paddling; basic comfort in the water is recommended but strong swimming skills are not required.
Is this a guided tour?
The combo is typically self‑guided; guided options may be available for an additional fee—call Jupiter Outdoor Center to check availability.
Will I see alligators, and is that safe?
Alligators are part of Florida’s ecosystem and may occasionally be seen; they typically avoid people when left undisturbed—observe wildlife from a distance and never feed or approach animals.
Where do I check in?
Check in at Jupiter Outdoor Center inside Riverbend Park at 9060 W Indiantown Road, Jupiter, FL—look for the large chickee/tiki hut a few hundred feet inside the main entrance.
Are there age or weight limits?
All ages are welcome. Kayak weight limits vary by model (examples: Malibu Single 9.5 — 250 lbs; Malibu Single 11.5 — 300 lbs; Tandem kayaks — 450 lbs; RTM Quattro — 570 lbs). If you need a specific kayak to meet weight requirements, request it in the special remarks at checkout.
What if the weather turns bad?
The operator runs rain or shine, but for severe weather or unsafe conditions they may delay or reschedule; refunds are only issued if Jupiter Outdoor Center cancels the activity.