|
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.
| |
|
It appears as though November first has brought wonderful hiking weather to Central Florida. Time to dust off the parkas, mittens, and snow boots! As we gear up for Florida's "Hiking Season", our chapter hopes to add many new events in the coming months. Be on the lookout for hikes, wildlife walks, paddling trips, and campfires!
Our volunteer trail maintainers have been hard at work clearing a year's worth of growth along wooded paths in the Econlockhatchee and Seminole State Forests, Mills Woodlands, and Wekiwa State Park. Earlier this month, members of our chapter joined statewide volunteers on a mission to remove hundreds of downed trees along the Suwannee section after Hurricane Idalia moved though.
As the leaves change color and fall from the red maple trees, Virginia creeper, and shining sumac, migrating birds flock to the state to overwinter in our warmer climate. While out on the trails, it may sound as though a stray feline has wandered into the woods when catbirds cry out from the trees with cat-like calls. The Orlando Wetlands is an exceptional place to venture out and spot a number of seasonal songbirds among countless other wading herons and waterfowl. A newly installed boardwalk allows visitors to get up close, although it might still be a good idea to bring binoculars for the shy critters in the distance.
Happy Hiking!
| |
Seasons Meetings!
Although our chapter typically gathers at Leu Gardens each month, last year we selected another venue, and opted to jazz up the event for the holidays.
We are returning to the same location on December 21st, hosting our chapter meeting at the Seminole County IFAS Extension in Sanford. At this festive get-together, we will have a potluck dinner, and a free gift raffle. Hope to see you there!
Date: December 21, 6:30 pm
Location: Seminole County IFAS Center
250 County Home Rd, Sanford, FL 32773
| | | |
|
|
FTA Thanksgiving Campout
It’s about time for our annual FTA Thanksgiving weekend campout. This year it is at Tillis Hill Recreation area in the Withlacoochee State Forest.
You will need to make your own campground reservations, or just come for a day. Lots of hikes and other activities. Potluck dinners. Campfire every night. More details and food sign-up list will be posted on Meet-up.com as we get closer to the date.
| | | |
|
Hickory Bluff
Preserve
Just east of Osteen, Hickory Bluff Preserve provides a 1.5-mile loop to a bluff of notable size along a scenic stretch of the St. Johns River
| |
|
Dr. Albert Burchsted, Ph.D.
Have you ever wondered about pollination, or why flowers look and smell like they do? Dr. Burchsted will discuss how pollination takes place, the co-evolution of flowers and pollinators, methods of attracting pollinators, some of the problems facing pollinators today, and much more!
| | |
Come Celebrate National Take a Hike Day at
Deviant Wolfe Brewing!
Enjoy a pint after a day on the trails or brainstorm with local hikers about upcoming treks. Whether you're a seasoned Florida Trail member or a new hiker interested in learning more, we will have all the essential information to help you on your journey. The Florida Trail Association will be talking all things hiking and backpacking.
*Deviant Wolfe will be promoting one of their iconic brews (flavor TBD, stay tuned for more info). For each pint sold, $1 will be donated to the Florida Trail Association.
*A $25 Deviant Wolfe gift card is up for grabs to those who enter our raffle.
| |
|
We will have a booth set up at Great Outdoors Day in St. Cloud this year. Stop by and say hi!
Lakefront Park
1402 Lakeshore Blvd, St. Cloud, FL, Saturday, November 4, 10:00am to 2:00pm
| |
|
Activities
&
Trail Maintenance
| |
|
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!
| |
|
Explore exclusive experiences effortlessly! Our captivating activities and Members-Only Gatherings are shared and organized by FTA Volunteers. You must reach out to the individual activity leaders directly to reserve a spot!
*Members-only events are for FTA Members who pay dues
to the state organization & their guests*
| |
Econlockhatchee Sandhills Conservation Area
| |
Offering free access twenty-four hours a day, Econlockhatchee Sandhills Conservation Area is one of several properties preserving the natural landscapes surrounding its namesake. Originating in the swamps of Osceola County, the river most locals refer to simply as the Econ winds through East Central Florida for over fifty miles before emptying into St. Johns River.
In addition to protecting the sensitive watershed, this parcel features sandhill habitats, which have become increasingly rare due to development. These ecosystems are typically characterized by a spotty canopy of turkey oak, sand live oak, and pine, and yellow-tinted sandy soils. Turkey oaks are one of the few upland trees in the area that shed their leaves in the winter, turning brown this time of year before they drop to the forest floor.
| | |
|
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
| | | | |
