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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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Central Florida Chapter Update
As we approach the end of the year, I want to take a moment to reflect on all that we’ve accomplished as a chapter and express my deepest gratitude to every one of you who has contributed to our success.
To our incredible members: thank you for your unwavering support and passion for the Florida National Scenic Trail. Your commitment to this trail and its mission inspires me every day.
To our trail maintainers: we are profoundly grateful for your dedication to keeping our trails safe and beautiful for hikers. The countless hours you spend clearing paths, repairing bridges, and blazing trails ensure that this treasure remains accessible to all who seek its wonders.
To those of you who have gone above and beyond by assisting our leadership team through outreach events and contributing to this newsletter—your energy and creativity breathe life into everything we do.
I would also like to personally thank our incredible leadership team for their tireless efforts this year:
- Jerry Rogers, our Trail Maintenance Coordinator, for being a phenomenal organizer and communicator, ensuring every detail of trail maintenance is handled with precision.
- Kelley Galvin, our Treasurer, for keeping our books in order and—perhaps most impressively—for putting up with Jerry Rogers!
- Stephen Griger, our Media Coordinator, for his valuable contributions to our chapter and helping expand our reach.
- Doug Kucklick, our Outreach Coordinator, for being a devoted leader who constantly puts himself out there to spread the mission of the Florida National Scenic Trail.
- Bill Turman, our Activity Coordinator and past Chapter Chair, for lending us his pool of wisdom through his years of service and for continuing to guide us with insight and dedication.
- David Magness, our Program Coordinator, for finding engaging and inspiring speakers for our monthly meetings, enriching our gatherings.
- Chris Stevens, our Media Coordinator, for collaborating with me and for creating engaging newsletters that keep our chapter informed and connected.
- Pam Hoepner, our Chapter Secretary, for her years of incredible service. Pam is stepping down this year, and while her position will need to be filled, her unique contributions and dedication will always leave a lasting mark on our chapter.
To Pam: you are truly irreplaceable, and we will miss you in this role more than words can say.
Finally, I want to encourage all of you to consider stepping into a leadership position. If you feel you have something to bring to the table—whether it's fresh ideas, skills, or just a desire to help—please don’t hesitate to reach out. Our chapter thrives when we all work together, and there is always room for more hands and minds to help carry our mission forward.
Thank you all for making this an unforgettable year. I am so grateful to be part of this incredible community, and I look forward to everything we’ll achieve together in the year ahead.
Wishing you all a wonderful holiday season and happy trails!
Chelsey Stevens
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Seasonal Hikers' Get Together
December 19, 2024
We’re excited to invite you to our Seasonal Hikers' Get Together – an evening of community, celebration, and holiday spirit! This year, we’re hosting the event at a new location:
📍Geneva Wilderness Area and the Ed & Imogene Yarborough Nature Center
3485 N. CR 426, Geneva, FL 32732
🗓 Date: Thursday, December 19, 2024
⏰ Time: 6:30 PM
While we typically gather at Leu Gardens, this new location offers us a wonderful setting to come together for a memorable evening.
What to Expect:
🥗 Potluck Feast
Bring your favorite dish to share! Whether it’s a cozy winter stew, a sweet holiday treat, or a vegetarian favorite, your contribution will make this feast truly special. Sign up here:
👉 Potluck Sign-Up
Festive Atmosphere
We’ll have access to the indoor education center and the outdoor pavilion. Enjoy mingling, sharing stories, and soaking up the holiday vibes. If the weather cooperates, bring a folding chair and enjoy the evening outdoors – maybe even join us for a short night hike on the property!
Raffle Fun
Get ready for a little friendly excitement with our popular raffle!
Important Info:
🔐 Gate Code Required
Access to the event requires a gate code. Check back on the day of the event for the updated code and any additional details.
✅ RSVP by December 16, 2024
Help us plan by RSVPing in advance.
This is your chance to reconnect, make new friends, and celebrate the season with fellow hikers in a beautiful setting. Join us for an evening of food, fun, and holiday cheer – we can’t wait to see you there!
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Highlighted Hike of the Month! | |
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Bridges of the Little Big Econ
Over the past few years, dedicated volunteers with the Central Florida Chapter of the Florida Trail have replaced numerous bridges along the Econlochatchee River. One of the most popular spots along the entire Florida Trail, the Little Big Econ State Forest hosts nearly ten miles of the orange blazed FNST.
Hiking the Kolokee Loop is the easiest way to see the volunteer handiwork, as it crosses most of the new bridges. Starting at the Barr Street Trailhead, the Kolokee loop combines 2.4 miles of the Florida Trail with a short section of the Flagler Trail and a white blazed loop for an out and back trip of 5.6 miles. This well-maintained path traces tall bluffs alongside the blackwater river, and large alligators are often seen resting on the sandy banks below. The return trip on the white trail explores jungle like forests in the floodplain further away from the river.
This route is also a designated trail in the Florida State Forest Trailwalker Program, a service that rewards hikers with certificates and swag for checking out the beautiful State Forests across the state.
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Exploring the Florida National Scenic Trail: A Plant Lovers Journey Through Florida's Diverse Ecosystems
The below article is a collaboration between the Florida Native Plant Society and the Florida Trail Association written by Chelsey Stevens
I often describe the Florida National Scenic Trail (FNST) as a botanist’s or ecologist’s trail, offering a unique journey through the state’s rich tapestry of ecosystems. Unlike other long-distance trails in the United States that boast a macro-view of towering mountain peaks or cascading waterfalls, the FNST invites hikers to engage in micro-hiking—an experience that emphasizes the intricate beauty of the scenery all around you, such as leaves, bugs, broken branches, wildlife, mini ecosystems, fungi, and moss. With more than eighty distinct ecosystems, Florida ranks among the top five states in biodiversity. For those who appreciate the delicate nuances of nature, the FNST provides an unparalleled adventure.
The FNST is an approximately 1,500-mile trail, with its exact length varying depending on the route you choose. It stretches from Big Cypress National Preserve in the south to Fort Pickens in the Panhandle, making it one of the few long-distance hikes that can be completed during the winter months. This seasonal advantage has drawn more thru-hikers to the trail, but it also means many miss the vibrant blooms of Florida's native plants, which often peak in the late summer and early fall.
Starting in the Southern Region, hikers are immersed in the subtropical beauty of orchids, air plants, and the complex ecosystem of periphyton—an assemblage of blue-green algae, fungi, microbes, and other organisms that form the foundation of life in the Everglades. This region also serves as a battleground against invasive species like Melaleuca, a reminder of the delicate balance required to maintain Florida's natural habitats.
As the trail winds through Central Florida, hikers traverse vast prairies dotted with saw palmettos, dwarf live oak, and gallberry. Here, the diversity of Florida's flora becomes evident, with multiple species of Lyonia and a surprising variety of blueberries that often astonish both locals and visitors. The oak hammocks, with their mix of southern live oak and palmetto, create a landscape that feels otherworldly, while the pine flatwoods introduce hikers to the fascinating world of pitcher plants and other carnivorous flora.
In the Northern Region, the FNST reveals the historical ties between Florida's natural landscape and its agricultural past. Hikers pass through old pine plantations, where remnants of the turpentine industry linger in the form of "cat-faced" trees and scattered herty pots. This region is home to longleaf pine and wiregrass, with oak hammocks providing shady respites along the way.
The Panhandle Region is a treasure trove of botanical wonders, where carnivorous plants steal the show. Over six varieties of pitcher plants, along with butterworts, bladderworts, and sundews, thrive in the moist, acidic soils of bogs, savannas, and wet pinelands. The journey culminates along the emerald coast, where salt marshes and dune grasses frame the trail's end—a fitting conclusion to a hike through one of the most ecologically diverse states in the country.
As this series continues, I look forward to exploring individual sections of the Florida National Scenic Trail in greater detail. Each segment showcases its own unique blend of native plants, from vibrant milkweeds to resilient palmettos. Join me on this virtual journey along the FNST to discover the botanical treasures that make this trail a true gem for nature lovers and conservationists.
You can access this article and future write-ups in the series by visiting the Sabal Minor Newsletter:
https://www.fnps.org/resources/sabalminor.
While you're there, I encourage you to consider joining your local Native Plant Society chapter. It’s a great way to connect with others who are passionate about Florida’s native plants and their conservation!
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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.
December 2024
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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A Little Church with a Big Heart: New Testament Baptist Church's Impact on Florida Trail Hikers
Written by Chelsey Stevens with information provided by Kay Farrara of the Happy Hoffers Chapter
Within the southern region of the Florida National Scenic Trail, which stretches 65 miles from I-75 (Alligator Alley) to the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) boundary, there lies a remarkable story of generosity, community, and resilience. One small church, New Testament Baptist Church, located within the Big Cypress Seminole Indian Reservation, has opened its doors and hearts to support hikers in need, creating a lasting impact on the Florida Trail.
Before COVID-19, hikers traversing the 19.2-mile section of trail through the Big Cypress Seminole Indian Reservation enjoyed well-established resources. Many camped at Nobles Camp in Big Cypress National Preserve and hiked the 11.1 miles to Big Cypress Campground, often stopping at Billie Swamp Safari for a hot meal or shower. For $10 per night, the Big Cypress Campground provided a dedicated tent area with chickees, picnic tables, laundry, and showers—a haven for hikers.
However, when the pandemic hit, these amenities disappeared. Billie Swamp Safari closed, and Big Cypress Campground no longer permitted tent camping. This left hikers with a grueling 28+ mile trek from Big Cypress National Preserve to the first designated campsite under SFWMD regulations. Stealth camping was no longer allowed, adding to the challenges.
In response to this growing need, Pastor Payne and his wife Lana, along with their congregation at New Testament Baptist Church, stepped up in an extraordinary way. Recognizing the hardships hikers faced, they opened their church and fellowship hall to the hiking community, offering a much-needed safe haven.
Their church, which seats about 100, holds services on Wednesday nights and Sunday mornings. But next door is where hikers find their sanctuary—the Fellowship Hall. This building boasts a dining area, a commercial kitchen, restrooms, and showers. Hikers are welcome to camp on the property, either outdoors in the beautiful camping area behind the church or, on cold nights, inside the Fellowship Hall.
The camping area includes RV sites, a chickee with picnic tables, a fire ring, and stocked firewood. There is even an original restroom building built in 1979, providing hikers with the comforts of modern facilities during their journey.
While the church embraced hikers, the restroom building was in dire need of repairs. Water damage and aging materials made the facility unusable. To address this, the church members raised $7,200 to replace the roof and borrowed additional funds to completely renovate the interior. One side of the building was transformed into a restroom with showers, while the other side became a laundry room with a second shower. A washer and dryer were generously donated by Ron Bergeron, a prominent businessman and environmental advocate in South Florida.
To further support the project, volunteers from the Happy Hoofers Chapter of the Florida Trail Association stepped in to help. On September 2, 2024, chapter members prepped and painted the exterior of the building, bringing new life to this essential facility.
The project culminated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony on October 9, 2024, with Pastor Payne blessing the newly renovated bathhouse. Attendees, including Happy Hoofers Chapter members and other supporters, celebrated this milestone, which will benefit countless hikers for years to come.
How You Can Help
The Church and FTA members have raised approximately $15,000 for the bathhouse renovations, but an additional $8,000 is needed to pay off the loan. If you would like to contribute, your tax-deductible donation will directly support this vital project.
There are two ways to donate:
1: Online Donation
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Visit www.BigCypress.us
- Click the “Online Giving” button.
- Choose “one-time” or “recurring” gift.
- Under “Fund,” select “Building Fund” and enter your donation amount.
- Fill in your billing details, then click “Submit.”
2: Mail a Check
- Make the check payable to Big Cypress New Testament Baptist Church.
- Address: 30550 Josie Billie Hwy, PMB 40, Clewiston, FL 33440.
- Write “FTA Building Fund” on the memo line.
Your support will help New Testament Baptist Church continue to be a beacon of hope for hikers along the Florida Trail. Thank you for giving back to this incredible community.
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Hal Scott Preserve
At Hal Scott Preserve, enjoy vast prairies and seepage bogs, the Econ River, and camping under a live oak canopy—all within minutes of the Orlando International Airport.
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The Florida Trail Fest is an annual event celebrating the Florida Trail Community, held at the approximate halfway point for thru hikers who started at kick-off in January. This year’s event takes place on February 7th-9th, 2025 at Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park, in White Springs. Admission is free.
Florida Trail Fest 2025 Festivities will begin on Friday at 5 pm. and end Sunday before noon. Be sure to check out the Florida Trail Association tent for information on a planned day hike Sunday!
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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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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
Vacant - 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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Central Florida Chapter Activity Leaders
Bill Turman, Activity Coordinator
One of the most important areas of the FTA and the Central Florida Chapter are the on-going stream of enjoyable and exciting Activities. These give our members the opportunities to experience and hopefully learn from the outdoors, whether hiking, backpacking, kayaking, cycling or a multitude of other activities. Participation in these activities also allows our guests to experience the FTA, get to know our members, enjoy themselves and hopefully this will result in them joining the FTA. This is only possible through the dedicated
work of our FTA Activity Leaders.
Our current group of certified Activity Leaders are as follows:
- Rachael Augspurg
- Mary Slater Linn
- Ron Aube
- Tom Regan
- Jerry Rogers
- Kelley Galvin
- Chelsey Stevens
- Joan Jarvis
- Erica Johnson
- Steve Grieger
- Russ Klette
- Judy Minter
- Bill Turman
- Chris Stevens
- Jim Krell
- Jackie Warren
- David Magness
- Stuart Dropkin
In-Process:
- Jeanne Panciera (In-Training, 1 of 2 Co-Led)
- Kristen Gilbert (In-Training, 1 of 2 Co-Led)
- Elda Larche (In-Training, 1 of 2 Co-Led)
Being an Activity Leader is an excellent way to get involved, conduct exciting activities (whether a couple hour hike or a multi-day expedition), meet a lot of great people, while expounding the value and benefits of the Florida Trail Association. We really need you to step up and get involved. If you would like to become a Certified FTA Activity Leader (AL), please contact me: Bill Turman, 407-413-2950 or HokieBill@bellsouth.net
We will work to get the process started. To become an AL, you will need to co-lead two activities, working with and learning from two
different current Activity Leaders. We also hold training sessions from time to time to allow you to build upon your initial training.
Looking forward to growing the list of Certified FTA Activity Leaders, with hopefully including your name.
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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! | |
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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!
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