long, straight tunnel of trees. Majestic southern live oaks, their branches laden with Spanish moss, create a shaded canopy with dappled sunlight. Suddenly you’ re in a different world, and if it’ s early in the morning, you may have the road to yourself.
The road cuts through a wetlands area between the Tomoka and Halifax rivers. A mile into the tunnel of trees you’ ll see the entrance for Tomoka State Park, a popular spot for birdwatching, fishing, boating, and hiking, and it has a campground with a well-stocked store.
After Tomoka State Park, you’ ll encounter the first curve of the loop, bending gently to the left before a bridge crosses the Tomoka River. The view opens onto a broad area that’ s part of the Tomoka Marsh Aquatic Preserve. At the junction with Pine
The Ormond Scenic Loop and Trail includes a section of Old Dixie Highway as well as state parks that protect southern live oaks and wetlands.
RIDERMAGAZINE. COM / JUNE 2026 / 59