December 5, 2025

Welcome to the Friday Waypoint where you'll find the latest updates about opportunities & activities with the Florida Trail Association.

Vendor Applications Open for Florida Trail Fest!

If your products are handmade, trail-inspired, adventure-ready, or simply something festival-goers will love, this is your moment!

We’re seeking artists, candle makers, jewelry makers, woodworkers, potters, painters, photographers, leatherworkers, soap & skin care products and all other creative vendors who want to share their work with nature lovers.

Does your brand provide gear for the outdoor seeker like tents, tarps, nutrition, apparel, footwear, eco-friendly products, equipment or accessories? We've got your audience!

Questions or Vendor Recommendations? fest@floridatrail.org

Volunteer Award Nominations are OPEN! 🏆

Know someone who’s made a big impact on the Florida Trail?

Now’s your chance to shine a spotlight on their amazing work!

Each year, the Florida Trail Association honors members, volunteers, partners, and supporters who go above and beyond to protect and promote the Florida Trail. Visit www.floridatrail.org/volunteer-awards to submit your nomination.

🗓️ Nominations close December 22, 2025, at 5 PM EST.

🏕️ 2025 Award Winners will be celebrated at Florida Trail Fest with an awards ceremony on Saturday evening, March 7th.

👉 Submit your nomination today at floridatrail.org/volunteer-awards

Girls Who Hike FL x FTA Volunteer Weekend Recap

Our partnered Volunteer Work Party with Girls Who Hike Florida was a huge success! Over the weekend, 25 women came together at Rice Creek Conservation Area with incredible energy and enthusiasm. Volunteers completed repairs on boardwalks and puncheons and staged lumber for future maintenance.

Beyond the trail work, we enjoyed time together bonding, learning new skills, and helping ensure safe access to the Florida Trail.

A huge thank-you to everyone who volunteered and made this weekend so impactful!

If you're interested in getting involved with Girls Who Hike Florida, check out their Facebook group!

Volunteers in Action Across Florida

Our volunteers have been hard at work all across the state! From Osceola National Forest to the Kissimmee River, trail crews are staying busy and helping maintain the Florida Trail for all to enjoy.

Thank you, volunteers, for everything you do to keep our trail open, safe, and beautiful.

If you’d like to join the fun, visit floridatrail.org/volunteer or connect with your local chapter at floridatrail.org/our-chapters.

🌿 Want to Know What Our Partners Are Up To?

From community events to workshops and new program offerings, there's always something going on.

👉 Click here to see upcoming events and opportunities.

Are you hosting an event you'd like us to share?

📣 Fill out this form to share it with us!

From races to community gatherings, these events raise vital funds to protect and maintain the Florida Trail. By joining in, you’re directly supporting the Trail you love.

👉Click here to check out upcoming events.

Have an event to share? Reach out to tisha@floridatrail.org

Sunset Trucker Hat

Stay cool, protected, and trail-ready with this lightweight UPF 50+ sun hoodie featuring a vibrant, Florida-themed all-over print. Perfect for long days outdoors—whether you're hiking, doing trail work, or exploring!

FT Blaze Pint Glass

Rep your love for the Florida National Scenic Trail with this bold FNST oval sticker! Featuring the initials for the Florida National Scenic Trail in classic black-and-white style and minimalist design.