Wekiwa Springs State Park Work Hike | |
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The Florida Trail Association develops, maintains, protects, and promotes a network of hiking trails throughout the state, including the unique Florida National Scenic Trail.
Together with our partners we provide opportunities for the public to hike, engage in outdoor recreation, participate in environmental education, and contribute to meaningful volunteer work.
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As we near the end of hurricane season, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the significant impact the last two major storms have had on our region. In addition to hardships felt by folks across the state, the hurricanes have left parts of the Florida National Scenic trail in need of substantial repairs. From fallen trees to washed out sections, many areas are currently unsafe for hikers.
Maintenance volunteers to the north are working to clear the trails after finding extensive damage along the Aucilla and Suwannee Rivers. I recently witnessed some of the destruction on the interstate while traveling home from visiting relatives, and it was a stark reminder of the shared challenges we face.
Our dedicated trail coordinator Jerry Rogers is working closely with teams to assess the trails and create a plan to restore these affected areas. Over the coming weeks we will provide updates on when and where trail maintenance will be needed.
Please state tuned for upcoming volunteer opportunities. The trails are an invaluable part of out communities, and we are committed to ensuring they remain safe and accessible for all to enjoy.
Best regards,
Chelsey Stevens
Chapter Chair
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Guest Speaker: Chris Stevens
🚨 IMPORTANT: We’ve moved locations! Due to a Halloween event at Leu Gardens, our meeting will now be held at the UF/IFAS Extension Office in Sanford (📍 250 County Home Rd, Sanford, FL 32773). Please make note of the change! 🚨
Join us for our monthly meeting at this new spot! We’ll kick off with some social time at 6:30pm, so feel free to bring a snack to share with the group. The presentation will start at 7:00pm.
This month’s speaker is Chris Stevens, coauthor of the upcoming 5th edition of The Florida Trail Guide. Chris will discuss his work on the FarOut app, the official digital companion to the guidebook. He’ll show how users can use the app to plan their trips, track their hikes, and enter their own waypoints, making the Florida Trail experience even more accessible and enjoyable!
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Tiger Creek Preserve—An Excellent, Dry Place Nearby to Hike During Hunting and Hurricane Seasons
By Rob Rogers
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As the summer temperatures finally begin to cool and the chapter begins returning to the Florida Trail in our home counties for maintenance, many of you may be looking to get out onto the trails to hike again. But we all know that the two H's—hurricanes and hunting—can make hiking on trails in our counties outside of state parks less than ideal, with many of the trails still being considerably wet. But if you’re willing to drive a bit south and west, great hiking on high and dry ground away from hunters can be found at Tiger Creek Preserve.
Tiger Creek Preserve is a 5,000-acre slice of heaven located near Babson Park, just south of the town of Lake Wales, not far from the Bok Tower Gardens. It can be reached somewhat easily by taking U.S. 27 less than one hour south of I-4. Located in the Lake Wales Ridge, the sandy dunes that were among the first landmasses in peninsular Florida to rise above the sea, Tiger Creek Preserve is higher in elevation than most trails in Orange, Seminole, and Osceola Counties. And because it’s operated by the Nature Conservancy, you won’t have to worry about hunters.
The preserve is ideal if you’re looking for more than five miles of hiking on secluded trails far from cars and tourists. It contains three connected loops—the 4.5-mile Highlands Loop, the 1.6-mile Creek Bluffs Loop, and the 1.2-mile Heron Pond Loop—as well as two one-way trails connecting the loops to trailheads bearing the same names—the 1.9-mile Pfundstein Trail and the 0.5-mile Wakeford Trail.
These trails can be connected with perfect distances to suit whatever you’re looking for. For example, if you want more than 10 miles, you can park at the Pfundstein Trailhead, take the Pfundstein Trail to the Highlands Loop, connect to the Creeks Bluff Loop halfway around the Highlands Loop, then finish the Highlands Loop, return on the Pfundstein Trail, and detour on the way back for the Heron Pond Loop, for 11.1 miles. Or you can instead park at the Wakeford Trailhead and take the Wakeford Trail to the Creeks Bluff Loop, then connect halfway through to the Highlands Loop and complete it before finishing the Creeks Bluff Loop and returning to your car via the Wakeford Trail, for 7.1 miles. Or you can cut out the Highlands Loop and do only the Wakeford Trail and Creeks Bluff Loop for 2.6 miles.
Tiger Creek Preserve is an oasis of primeval Florida nestled in the Lake Wales Ridge with that most precious of commodities in Florida—elevation change, dare I say hills (by Central Florida standards). Its trails climb through multiple habitats including sandhills, oak hammocks, scrubby flatwoods and ridges, grassy swales, and fields of palmetto. It is home to more than 15 species of endangered plants and animals, many of which can only be found in the Lake Wales Ridge. A highlight of the Creeks Bluff Loop is a dense ridge of palm looking down on the blackwater Tiger Creek itself, which eventually meets a bridge over Tiger Creek leading to the Wakeford Trail.
The experience of hiking there is best described as serene and secluded. Far from the hustle and bustle of any metropolitan areas, Tiger Creek Preserve is the definition of tranquility. I’ve now been there more than 5 times, and I still have yet to hear a car or even an airplane, and I’ve rarely seen more than a handful of other hikers there. The hikers-only trails are also dry, well-maintained, well-blazed, and almost never on roads. Almost all of the hiking surfaces are compact through most of the year. Besides a key stretch on approximately half the short Wakeford Trail, you need not worry about much sugar sand. I’ve also seen deer, hogs, eagles, osprey, and tons of other wildlife there.
Another highlight of Tiger Creek Preserve are the rest stops. Well-maintained benches can be found at perfect locations throughout the Preserve, including at overlooks of the Tiger Creek on the Creeks Bluff Loop. Perhaps the best is Tricia’s Peak, a covered shelter on the Highlands Loop with two large benches atop one of the highest scrub ridges in the Preserve with panoramic views of the grassy swale and prairie below. This is bar-none my favorite place to have lunch in Florida.
The Pfundstein Trailhead in the southwest corner of the Preserve is the easier of the two trailheads to reach, whereas the Wakeford Trailhead in the northeast corner of the preserve is better suited for quicker access to the Creeks Bluff and Highlands Loop. Both trailheads have easily accessed grassy parking areas with room for several cars, each located just off paved roads. Access to the preserve is free, with hiking being available during daylight hours. Each trailhead also has paper maps and informative signage. No pets, bikes, drones, or camping are allowed.
An excellent description by Sandra Friend and John Keatley of the flora and fauna found there can be found on pages 224-230 of their book 50 Hikes in Central Florida (The Countryman Press 3rd ed. 2019), and also on their website at https://floridahikes.com/tiger-creek-preserve.
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Rob Rogers is the author of Finding My Way Home: Fighting Depression Backpacking in Central Florida, which will be released by Barringer Publishing this November.
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Recognize this Central Florida Chapter location on the cover? | |
Highlighted Hike of the Month! | |
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Greenwood Lakes Cemetery Historic Hike
For October, we will be revisiting a classic series of activities held by our chapter, Historical Hikes. These trips featured in-depth information collected by Steve Rajtar, and embroidered patches were given out at the end of each hike. Our chapter still has several batches of patches, and we plan to host more Historical Hikes throughout the hiking season.
This month we will tour the Greenwood Cemetery in Orlando, to learn more about the history of the city, and some particularly notable Orlandoans. The grounds are open to the public from 7 AM – 7 PM daily, and parking is available at the end of Greenwood Street. The neighboring Greenwood Urban Wetlands can be accessed from the same parking area, for a surprisingly quiet stroll through cypress lined wetlands at the edge of a bustling metropolis. Join our hike on October 25th, and pick up a patch!
The City of Orlando has created an interactive tour of the cemetery online - Greenwood Cemetery Historical Walking Tour
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Activities
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Trail Maintenance
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Discovering exciting events has never been easier! Our engaging activities and Trail Maintenance events are posted and shared exclusively on Meetup.
Due to their overwhelming popularity, spots fill up swiftly. To ensure you never miss out on the latest updates and happenings, we kindly request all members to join our Meetup community. Stay informed and be part of the fun!
Send us a message or email to sign up for our work hike email list. We provide important details the week of and day before each work party, including location to meet and time.
Work Parties are hosted across the state by the Florida Trail Association. They include an area for free tent camping and breakfast, lunch and dinner. Sign up for these events in advance on the FTA website - https://floridatrail.galaxydigital.com/need/
October 2024
October 19: Little Big Econ State Forest work hike (tentative)
October 23: Charles H Bronson State Forest work hike
October 25 – 27: Indian River Chapter Work Party – Bull Creek WMA
October 30: Chuluota Wilderness Area work hike
November 2024
November 6: Seminole State Forest work hike
November 8,10: Indian River Chapter Work Party – Prairie Lakes WMA
November 13: Seminole State Forest work hike
November 16 – 20: Little Big Econ State Forest work hike
December 2024
December 4: Little Big Econ State Forest work hike
December 11: Seminole Ranch Conservation Area work hike
December 18: Charles H Bronson State Forest work hike
December 21: Savage Christmas Creek Preserve work hike
January 2025
January 2: Charles H Bronson State Forest work hike
January 9 – 12: Indian River Chapter Work Party – Three Lakes WMA
January 18,19: Indian River Chapter – Tosohatchee WMA
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Family Camp-out at Moss Park – Save the Date!
Our Central Florida Chapter is excited to announce a family-friendly camping trip at beautiful Moss Park! This will be a primitive tent camping experience, perfect for families and nature lovers of all ages. We’ll host group hikes and other fun activities throughout the weekend!
This event is open to both members and future members of the Florida Trail Association—we hope you'll join us and consider becoming a member!
Camping Nights:
Friday, November 8th
Saturday, November 9th
The camp out will end on Sunday, November 10th.
Look out for more details soon!
In the meantime, if you’re interested in securing your spot, please email: cfchapter@floridatrail.org
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Kayak Trip, Mosquito Lagoon |  | |
Activity: Kayak Trip, Mosquito Lagoon – Round-Trip from Riverbreeze Park
Location: Mosquito Lagoon, Riverbreeze Park, Boat Ramp / Kayak Launch
When: November 16, 2024, Meet at 9:00 AM
Total Participants: 12, FTA Members Only
Sign-Up:
- Prior to 10/11, contact Bill Turman directly
- After 10/11, sign up on Meet-Up
Activity Leader:
This is a repeat of a popular trip we’ve done for the past several years, and it’s always been a great experience for participants. For those who haven’t kayaked in Mosquito Lagoon, you’re in for a unique adventure. At times, you’ll feel as though you’re in the middle of the wilderness, only to round a bend and catch a glimpse of New Smyrna Beach condos. Navigating the numerous islands and shallow waters can be a challenge, so it’s easy to get turned around in the maze of waterways.
Details:
- Launch Point: Riverbreeze Park kayak launch and boat ramp. We’ll cross the inter-coastal waterway, paddle east and north across the lagoon, and weave around several islands.
- Stops: We’ll take breaks at a few island campsites and navigate part of the Shipyard Island Canoe Trail. We’ll end up at JB's Fish Camp restaurant in Bethune Beach for lunch.
- Lunch: Enjoy a meal at JB’s (Grouper Sandwiches, anyone?) before continuing south to Turtle Mound, one of Florida’s largest Indian shell mounds.
- Return: After touring Turtle Mound, we’ll paddle back west across the lagoon to Riverbreeze Park.
Paddling Distance: 11-12 miles round trip.
Skill Level: This trip is rated moderate due to tidal currents, potential strong winds, and waves in shallow bays. Participants should be experienced kayakers capable of paddling this distance and have seaworthy boats.
Important Notes:
- Weather: Mid-November is still warm and sunny, with little shade. Wear appropriate clothing, hats, and sunscreen.
- Bring: Plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Turtle Mound: There may be a fee to tour Turtle Mound as it is part of Canaveral National Seashore, although in the past, we’ve beached our kayaks and walked the boardwalk without having to pay.
Looking forward to another great day on the water!
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Shadow Bay Park
A stones’-throw from Orlando’s famous theme parks, Shadow Bay Park protects one of the last remaining scrub ecosystems on the Mount Dora Ridge.
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31st Annual 2025 Winter Series
Join us for our annual Winter Wednesday Hikes and Thursday Paddles. Each event is numbered for your convenience and scheduled to allow you to explore the unique beauty of Central Florida's natural landscapes. These activities are perfect for anyone who loves the outdoors and enjoys exploring with others.
The Winter Wednesday hikes will be listed in the Footpath and past participants will be notified by email but they will not be on Meetup.
FOR MORE INFORMATION: Contact the leader
Rachael Augspurg lourayfl@mac.com or text 352-552-0626
WEDNESDAY HIKES - Start at 9:30 AM
Jan. 8, 9:30 AM - Winter Wednesday Hike 1
Wekiwa Springs SP - Springs Loop
Jan. 15, 9:30 AM - Winter Wednesday Hike 2
Ocala NF/ Alexander Springs - Florida Trail
Jan. 22, 9:30 AM - Winter Wednesday Hike 3
Ocala NF/ Florida Trail - Juniper Wilderness
Jan. 29, 9:30 AM - Winter Wednesday Hike 4
Ocala NF/ Buck Lake Loop & Florida Trail
Feb. 5, 9:30 AM - Winter Wednesday Hike 5
Withlacoochee SF/ Croom Loop A
Feb. 12, 9:30 AM - Winter Wednesday Hike 6
Withlacoochee SF/ Citrus South Loop C
Feb. 18, 9:30 AM - Winter Wednesday Hike 7
FWC/ Chinsegut Conservation Area - FT
Feb. 26, 9:30 AM - Winter Wednesday Hike 8
Withlacoochee SF/ Citrus A Loop
Mar. 5, 9:30 AM - Winter Wednesday Hike 9
Rice Creek Conservation Area/Florida Trail
Mar. 12, 9:30 AM - Winter Wednesday Hike 10
Caravelle Ranch WMA
Mar. 19, 9:30 AM - Winter Wednesday Hike 11
Doris Leeper Spruce Creek Preserve
Mar. 26, 9:30 AM - Winter Wednesday Hike 12
ONF-St. Francis Trail
THURSDAY PADDLES - Start at 9:00 AM
Jan. 9, 9:00 AM - Thursday Paddle 1
Wekiva River - SP to Katie’s Landing
Jan. 16, 9:00 AM - Thursday Paddle 2
Alexander Spring Run
Jan. 23, 9:00 AM - Thursday Paddle 3
Juniper Springs Run
Jan. 30, 9:00 AM - Thursday Paddle 4
Blue Creek to St Johns River
Feb. 6, 9:00 AM - Thursday Paddle 5
Withlacoochee River
Feb. 13, 9:00 AM - Thursday Paddle 6
Chasshowitzka River
Feb. 20, 9:00 AM - Thursday Paddle 7
Withlacoochee River
Feb. 27, 9:00 AM - Thursday Paddle 8
Rainbow River
Mar. 6, 9:00 AM - Thursday Paddle 9
Ocklawaha River
Mar. 13, 9:00 AM - Thursday Paddle 10
Deep Creek to St Johns River
Mar. 20, 9:00 AM - Thursday Paddle 11
Spruce Creek
Mar. 27, 9:00 AM - Thursday Paddle 12
St Francis Dead River
For additional details, including exact locations, times, and preparations,
please contact the hike leader, Rachael Augspurg,
at lourayfl@mac.com or by text at 352-552-0626.
We look forward to having you join us for these wonderful outdoor adventures!
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THANKSGIVING 2024
Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park
November 28 - December 1
Join us for a memorable Thanksgiving weekend at Paynes Prairie! Whether you're staying for the entire weekend or just visiting for a day, there’s something for everyone.
Camping Options:
- Make your own campground reservations at Florida State Parks Reservations.
- Reservations are currently full, but tent camping accommodations may be available—please reach out if interested.
- If you're hoping to camp with an RV, keep an eye on the reservation site for cancellations.
Activities Include:
Hiking, biking, paddling, and plenty of fun for all ages!
Contact Sue at sue.carroll6@gmail.com for questions
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41st ANNUAL NEW YEAR'S EVE CAMPOUT
Friday, December 27, 2024 - Wednesday January 1, 2025
Celebrate New Year's Eve with FTA friends at the Doe Lake Campground in the Ocala National Forest. Arrive after noon on Friday Dec. 27th and checkout by 11:00 AM on Wednesday Jan.1st. This is a group camp reserved for our group only.
There will be scheduled hiking and paddling activities in addition to group shared dinners, evening programs and campfires.
Cost is $15 per person per night due upon arrival. Those under age 18 camp free. No reservations necessary.
THIS MEMBERS-ONLY EVENT IS FOR FTA MEMBERS WHO PAY DUES TO THE STATE ORGANIZATION & THEIR GUESTS
For more information contact leader. Rachael Augspurg - lourayfl@mac.com or 352 552 0626
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10% off all regularly priced clothing, footwear, and gear
Offer limited & some exclusions apply
Travel Country Outfitters supports Florida Trail Members Simply show proof of membership at the register
www.travelcountry.com 407-831-0777
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Chelsey Stevens - Chapter Chair
Jerry Rogers - Trail Maintenance Coordinator
Stephen Grieger - Membership Coordinator
Kelley Galvin - Treasurer
Doug Kucklick - Outreach Coordinator
Chris Stevens - Media Coordinator
Pam Hoepner - Secretary
Bill Turman - Activity Coordinator
David Magness - Program Coordinator
Media Committee
Rob Rogers
Outreach Committee
Rue Nilson
Stuart Dropkin
Roxane Abelow
Hospitality
Rue Nilson
Jean Williamson
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Join Our Committees!
Interested in getting more involved without the commitment of a leadership position? We're excited to announce the formation of committees to support our leadership roles, and we're seeking enthusiastic volunteers. Initially, we're focusing on the following committees, with plans to expand to additional roles in the future:
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Media Committee: This team will manage social media, share photos, write articles, and coordinate contributions from others.
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Outreach Committee: Members will help set up and staff tables at various outreach events.
If you're interested in joining one of these committees, please don't hesitate to reach out to us!
We hope everyone enjoys a cool and safe summer. Thank you for your dedication to our community and for taking the time to connect with your leadership team. Have a wonderful season!
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Are you passionate about making a positive impact in your community? Do you enjoy engaging in outreach activities that promote environmental awareness and sustainability? If so, we invite you to join our team of dedicated volunteers for upcoming Outreach events this spring!
Here are some exciting opportunities to get involved:
🌿 Volunteers Needed for Backyard Biodiversity Day!
Join us for Backyard Biodiversity Day, a fantastic celebration of Florida's unique flora and fauna, presented by the Florida Native Plant Society. Taking place on Saturday, October 19, 2024, at Mead Botanical Garden in Winter Park, FL, this family-friendly event promises a day filled with informative presentations, interpretive hikes, native plant sales, kids' activities, and more!
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Sign Up for Our Volunteer List!
If you're interested in participating and receiving updates about future Outreach events, please forward your name and email address to
Rue Nilson at rumagoo@embarqmail.com and Doug Kucklick at dkucklick@cfl.rr.com
Let's come together to create meaningful change and build a brighter, more sustainable future for all!
The Florida Trail Guide, Fifth Edition cover is Mills Creek, in the Mills Creek Woodlands!
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