July 18, 2025

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

We’re excited to share a fantastic new video created by the Tropical Trekkers Chapter, spearheaded by the passionate and creative Chaz Rodriguez! 🌿

This short film captures the beauty, challenge, and unique character of the Florida Trail, helping to inspire more people to explore and appreciate our incredible trail system.

👉 Watch it here!

👏 Huge thanks to Chaz and the Tropical Trekkers for your amazing work and dedication to promoting the FT!

Feeling inspired? Click here to become a member or volunteer and give back to the Trail you love.

Two important updates to help you plan your hike:

🔒 S-65A Lock Closure – Kissimmee River

The S-65A Lock is now closed for maintenance, per Polk County.

• This lock is the only way to cross the Kissimmee River on the Florida Trail.

• Expected to remain closed through October.

• Plan to reroute or postpone hikes in this area. Do not attempt to cross the river.

🌿 Permit Changes in Big Cypress

Good news: Backcountry permits are no longer required to hike in Big Cypress National Preserve.

However, please note:

🚧 Permits are still required to hike across the Big Cypress Seminole Indian Reservation.

✅ Reminders for Big Cypress hikers:

• Sign hiker logs at Oasis and I-75 Trailheads

• Leave a note in your vehicle with your itinerary

• Follow Leave No Trace principles

Help us protect the trail by staying informed and hiking responsibly.

We’ll continue to share updates as they become available!

For more information, check out our Notice to Hikers page.

🌟 We’re hiring! 🌟

Join our team and help protect and promote the Florida Trail!

We’re looking for Regional Trail Program Managers in these areas:

🌿 South/Central Florida

🌿 The Panhandle

If you’re passionate about public lands, volunteer engagement, and trail stewardship — we’d love to hear from you.

🔗 Full job descriptions & how to apply: www.floridatrail.org/jobs

A new trail season brings new opportunities. We’re thrilled to offer year-long internships to current University of Florida undergraduates to work closely with FTA staff, volunteers, and local communities on projects that align with their academic and outdoor interests.

What We're Looking For:

• UF undergrads (eligible for Federal Work Study OR class credit)
• 10–15 hrs/week, Sept–May
• Passion for trails, education, and conservation

Apply by July 31 at floridatrail.org/jobs

Questions? Contact emilyp@floridatrail.org