October 3, 2025

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

With the current government shutdown that began at midnight on October 1, we want to do our best to keep our volunteers, members, and trail users updated on the impacts to the FNST and FTA.

While some things are still unclear, here is what we know now:



➡️Federally managed lands along the FT, like our national forests, remain open to trail users. If this changes, we will post updates here and on our website.

➡️All volunteer projects and trail maintenance along the FT are paused at this time. If you are planning to participate in an upcoming volunteer work day or work party, please await guidance from the project lead, who will share any updates with you.

➡️For areas of trail requiring a permit to access the trail, we are not currently anticipating delays in processing those requests. However, this may change at any time based on our federal partners. We will share any updates here and on our website as they become available.

If you have specific questions, please feel encouraged to reach out to us via email at fta@floridatrail.org. Thank you for continuing to help steward the Florida National Scenic Trail and supporting FTA’s work.

Please join us in welcoming Bri to the Florida Trail Association! Bri serves as our new Community Engagement Manager, a newly created role focused on strengthening FTA’s connection with our members, volunteers, and partners.

In this position, Bri will oversee FTA’s membership program, events, merchandise, chapter activities, photo and video collection, trail user support, and chapter marketing efforts. She’ll also support the Executive Director’s fundraising initiatives and the Communications Manager’s outreach and education efforts.

A lifelong outdoor adventure enthusiast, Bri brings over two decades of leadership experience from her time as Executive Director and Program Director at a camp and retreat center in East Tennessee. With a “challenge accepted” spirit, she loves connecting people with the outdoors through enthusiasm, service, and adventure.

Originally from North Carolina, Bri holds a degree from UNC Greensboro and certificates in Non-Profit Business Management and Outdoor Ministries. She’s an avid paddler, athlete, and wildlife educator — known for her fun facts about misunderstood animals like snakes and opossums. Bri has also fostered over 250 dogs and once paddled 236 miles in 30 days to support public lands (and won first place!).

Now based in Gainesville with her Corgi/Australian Cattle Dog mix, Snap, Bri is always ready for her next adventure — whether it’s on the water, on the trail, or somewhere entirely new.

Welcome to the team, Bri!

✨ Wild Florida Sun Hoodie (UPF 50+)

Perfect for sun or shade, this lightweight, moisture-wicking hoodie features a vibrant Florida Trail-themed print and offers UPF 50+ sun protection, a breathable unisex fit, and comfort for hiking, paddling, camping, or everyday adventures.

➡️ Order yours today!

🌞Hiker Sunburst Sun Hoodie (UPF 50+)

Show your Florida Trail pride with this lightweight, moisture-wicking hoodie featuring a bold orange design, illustrated trail map, and FTA logo. Built for comfort under sun or shade, it offers UPF 50+ protection, breathable fabric, and a unisex fit perfect for hiking, paddling, or trail work.

➡️ Grab yours and rep the Trail everywhere you go!

🐾 Florida Trail Tails Bandana

Stay cool and adventure-ready with this lightweight, moisture-wicking bandana featuring a colorful illustrated map of Florida’s wildlife and flora. Perfect for sun protection, sweat management, or trail flair, it’s a durable, quick-drying essential for every hiker, paddler, and outdoor enthusiast.

👉 Shop the coolest bandana ever!

🐊 Hike FL 4×2 Sticker

Show your love for the Florida Trail with this bold 4×2 “HIKE FL” sticker — perfect for water bottles, coolers, laptops, or your favorite trail gear.

👉 Grab yours here!

🌿 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