November 7, 2025

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

Trail Maintenance in the Ocala National Forest

FTA staff recently led a volunteer trail maintenance project in the Ocala National Forest alongside members of the Black Bear Chapter and volunteers from across the state. Under beautiful Florida fall weather, volunteers camped and worked along the Florida Trail from Rodman Dam heading south to Pat’s Island, as well as along the Western Corridor from Salt Springs toward Silver Springs State Park.


It was a weekend filled with teamwork, camaraderie, and dedication to keeping the trail clear and welcoming for hikers. A huge thank you to all the volunteers who came out to make it happen!


👉Learn more about what to expect when you volunteer with us!


👉View upcoming events & register!

FTA Joins Give Miami Day 2025!

The Florida Trail Association is proud to participate in Give Miami Day 2025, one of the nation’s largest annual giving events!


This community-wide fundraiser helps make the vital work of nonprofits possible—providing support that allows organizations like FTA to meet the needs of our community and continue protecting and promoting the Florida Trail.


This year marks the 14th anniversary of Give Miami Day, which has raised more than $130 million for over 1,000 local organizations. It’s a day when anyone can be a philanthropist by giving back to the causes that matter most.


Give Miami Day: Thursday, November 20, 2025

Early Giving: November 15–19, 2025


Visit our profile page on GiveMiamiDay.org to make a gift and help us continue connecting communities with the outdoors. Every contribution—no matter the size—makes a difference!

Join the Happy Hoofers for Trail Maintenance in Big Cypress!

Come join the Happy Hoofers Chapter of the Florida Trail Association for a trail maintenance weekend in Big Cypress National Preserve, November 14–17!

Help us restore the trail using both hand and power tools. We will be repainting blazes, installing new signage, and clearing the trail.


Camping & Meals: Primitive camping will take place at Nobles Camp. There are no restrooms, showers, or electric hookups, but we’ll have a toilet tent, handwashing station, and shared meals from Friday dinner through Monday breakfast.


Schedule: Meet at the I-75 Rest Area (MM 63, north side) at 7:30 a.m. on November 14. Workdays are Friday through Sunday; Monday is for packing up camp. Join us for a single day or the full weekend!


What to Bring: Bring a day pack, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt for trail work, plus sun protection, bug spray, and your own camping gear. Quick-drying footwear is recommended. No flip-flops or Crocs.


Expect challenging but rewarding work on one of the most unique sections of the FT!


👉Click here for full details and registration!

🌿 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

We’ve teamed up with Girls Who Hike Florida to create a limited-edition custom Kula Cloth, designed just for Florida Trail adventurers. This antimicrobial, reusable pee cloth combines art, function, and Leave No Trace ethics, perfect for women who love to explore the wild side of Florida.


Grab yours today!


Not sure how to use a Kula Cloth? Click here to learn more!

Inspired by the beauty and mystery of Florida’s wilderness, our Owl T-Shirt celebrates the connection between people, wildlife, and the trail we love.


Made from 100% soft cotton, this shirt offers a relaxed fit that’s perfect for everyday wear, from trail adventures to weekend outings.


Grab your Owl Tee and show your love for the trail!