October 24, 2025

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

Update: Volunteer Work Resumes on the Florida National Scenic Trail

We have an important update regarding the ongoing government shutdown and its impact on FTA volunteer trail maintenance projects. The U.S. Forest Service has restored our Volunteer Services Agreement, which means Workers’ Compensation and liability protections for our volunteers are now back in place. FTA volunteer work along the Florida National Scenic Trail (FNST) can officially resume!

Our team is moving quickly to take advantage of this change, and we already have two staff-supported Volunteer Work Parties happening this weekend.

Please keep in mind that other impacts of the shutdown may still affect the Trail. Many federal land managers remain furloughed, and some public lands are still closed. If you have any questions or concerns about restarting volunteer work, please reach out to your Regional Trail Manager or email fta@floridatrail.org

Thank you for your continued patience and dedication as we’ve navigated this challenging time!

Interested in joining a Volunteer Work Party? Browse the calendar of events here!

🌲 Volunteers Needed: Ocala National Forest

Join the Florida Trail Association for a volunteer trail maintenance project on the Florida Trail in the Ocala National Forest! Help us maintain and improve the trail from Rodman Dam south to Pat’s Island and along the Western Corridor from Salt Springs to Silver Springs State Park.

Dates: Thursday, October 30 (arrive after 4 PM to set up camp) – Monday, November 3

Workdays: Friday, October 31 – Monday, November 3

Camping: Provided at the OHV Center on FR 11, with full bath facilities and a covered pavilion with electricity. RVs allowed (no hookups; contact crew leader in advance).

Meals: All meals provided by FTA in our camp kitchen.

What to Expect:

Routine trail maintenance along the Florida Trail
Hike up to 5 miles per day at moderate difficulty
Breakfast at 7 AM, work begins at 8 AM
There’s a job for everyone—first-timers are welcome!

What to Bring:

Day pack, sturdy footwear, and appropriate clothing (long pants required, long sleeves recommended)
Sunscreen and bug spray
Personal camping gear (tent, sleeping bag, lunch container, personal items)

➡️ Click here for more details & registration!

Questions? Email Jeff Glenn, jeffg@floridatrail.org

Come on out, lend a hand, and help keep the Florida Trail in great shape! 🌿

Looking to explore the Florida Trail but not sure where to start?

Sandra Friend and John Keatley have authored more than 30 books about hiking in Florida and are widely recognized as experts on the Florida National Scenic Trail. The Florida Trail Association has you covered with two of their most trusted guides.

Their latest titles are must-haves for anyone planning an adventure this season:

🥾The Florida Trail Guide – Sold exclusively in the FTA Shop, this is the essential guide for thru-hikers and section hikers.

🥾Florida Trail Hikes – your companion for scenic day hikes and weekend getaways along the FNST.

Carrying their work forward, Chris Stevens is now leading data collection for FarOut, the app that helps hikers access Florida Trail maps and navigation tools right from their phones.

Whether you’re planning a short day hike or a multi-day trek, there’s no better time to explore the beauty of the Florida Trail. 🌿

🌿 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

Visit the FTA Shop to check out our newest arrivals — from lightweight sun hoodies and colorful stickers to guidebooks and more.

🌿 Shop now and gear up for your next adventure.