The Hanna Park Ride

I'm not sure what my hopes were for this one, but in the back of my head I knew that I shouldn't be expecting too much. This is a good change of pace to get to the Mayport area, but I wouldn't go out of your way for this one. The destinations along the way are more interesting than the ride itself.

We will start going east from 9A on Merrill road. In all reality, you could take this road all the way down to where we will be ending, but where is the fun in that. Head down Merrill road first for a little bit after you get off the highway towards Fort Caroline road. This stretch will be your standard byway complete with regular traffic lights and idiot drivers. Take a left when you get to Fort Caroline and prepare yourself for the most enjoyable section of the ride. The first time I traveled this road, I was surprised to find that there were actually substantial hills, which added a little variation to the standard flat curves that I'm used too. Keep an eye out for Fort Caroline Park, which has a few nice walking trails right along the outlet of the St. Johns River as well as a real historic fort that you can take a look at. A little bit further down Fort Caroline on the left is Theodore Roosevelt park that has some more lengthy but excellent hiking trails that are so hilly you wont even feel like you are in Florida. After you pass the Monument road light, this where you might be able to open is up a little bit but there are a few neighborhoods and driveways to look out for. Enjoy the hills regardless. Follow this all the way down to where Merrill has turned into Mt. Pleasant road that will eventually turn into Wonderwood Dr. and head left. Here is where the fun stops, since you will take this all the way down to Hanna Park. There are a few nice views from the bridge over the start of the intra-coastal. If you do plan on actually going into Hanna Park, make sure you have a couple bucks to cover the entry fee. Look up the park's website for more detailed information. You'll find some nice hiking trails as well as beach access if that is what you're in the mood for.

A bit of a short ride at 11 miles from start to finish, it will take you about 21 minutes depending on the traffic. Depending on what time you choose to take the ride, traffic could be pretty bad since this road is a straight shot to Mayport Naval Base.

I'd have to give this ride a tough 3 twists of the throttle out of 5. The Fort Caroline loop saved it from a 2 as well as the views that the bridge offers. Nothing too exciting this time around. My next ride will reach out pretty far into the surrounding Jacksonville areas, so don't get too bored with me yet.