A Scenic Drive

Connecting Silver Springs with the city of Ormond Beach, the Florida Black Bear Scenic Byway (SR 40) traverses some of Florida's most pristine ecosystems, centered on the Big Scrub, the world’s largest scrub forest. Providing access to a wide array of public lands, including the Ocala National Forest, the Florida Black Bear Scenic Byway runs through the heart of Florida black bear habitat.

Managing the Corridor

Plans for managing the corridor are developed by the Corridor Management Entity (CME), a group of interested individuals and representatives of organizations along the Byway who meet monthly to guide planning for the Florida Black Bear Scenic Byway. Interested in participating? Have a great idea to showcase the beauty of North Central Florida along the Florida Black Bear Scenic Byway? Come to our meetings! Public input is welcome and encouraged.

Ribbon-Cutting Oct 24

The Florida Black Bear Scenic Byway was designated by the state of Florida as a scenic byway in April 2008. Application has been made to the federal government for designation as a national scenic byway and the results of that application are expected to be announced in August 2009. To mark this recognition as a scenic byway, a ribbon-cutting ceremony is planned for Saturday, October 24, 2009 at Camp Ocala in the Ocala National Forest on SR 19 south of SR 40.