December 19, 2025

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

Good news—registration for the 40th South Regional Conference has been extended through December 23! If you haven’t signed up yet, there’s still time to join the Florida Trail community for a weekend of outdoor adventure.

This year’s conference promises an exciting mix of hiking and paddling, workshops, gear swaps, a silent auction, camping, and great camaraderie—you won’t want to miss it!

Details and registration can be found at Floridatrail.org/SRC. Payment can be made online by credit card or by mailing a check.

Important reminders:

• There are no canoes remaining—please do not reserve one.
• If you are already registered, please arrive no earlier than 3:00 PM on January 9.

If you have any questions, please email Lynn Thompson . We look forward to seeing you there!

Celebrate Valentine’s Day on the trail at IDIDAHIKE 2026, hosted by the Choctawhatchee Chapter on Saturday, February 14, 2026, with unforgettable hikes through the stunning Nokuse Land Conservancy—a vital black bear and gopher tortoise sanctuary within the Florida Wildlife Corridor.

Choose from several curated hike options, connect with fellow outdoor enthusiasts, enjoy speakers and food trucks, and celebrate your love for nature and community.

Optional camping at Pine Log WMA makes it easy to turn your hike into a full weekend adventure!

For full details and registration, visit floridatrail.org/ididahike.

Experience the wild heart of South Florida while supporting the Florida Trail Association. The annual Ocean to Lake Hiking Trail (OTLHT) Fundraising Hike invites hikers to take on a three- or six-day guided backcountry journey through some of the region’s most diverse landscapes. From scrub and pine flatwoods to cypress swamps and wet prairies, this unique route showcases the ecological richness that makes the Ocean to Lake Hiking Trail so special.

Proceeds from this event directly support the Florida Trail Association and the Loxahatchee Chapter, helping fund essential trail maintenance, equipment, and stewardship efforts. Participation is limited, and prior backpacking experience is encouraged. Visit the event website for full event details, requirements, and registration information.

Florida Trail chapters are busy hosting hikes, workdays, and gatherings across the state, creating opportunities to connect, explore, and give back on a local level.

From casual day hikes to chapter-led adventures, there’s always something happening along the Trail.

➡️View upcoming FTA chapter events happening statewide.

Be part of the magic that brings Trail FEST to life! Become a sponsor and help people connect with the outdoors by choosing from multiple sponsorship tiers or support specific activities and items throughout the weekend.

Lots of options for your brand or organization to be involved. Join us in creating an unforgettable trail-powered celebration! Become a Sponsor at floridatrail.org/fest

Questions? Email fest@floridatrail.org

The Tropical Trekkers Chapter had an incredibly productive trail maintenance weekend in the Kissimmee River region, accomplishing an impressive 50 miles of trail maintenance! This outstanding effort helps keep the Florida Trail accessible, safe, and enjoyable for all who explore it.

A special thank you to Rich and Barbara Quinn, who spearheaded the organizing and facilitation of the weekend and helped make it such a success. Their leadership, along with the dedication and hard work of our volunteers, made a huge impact on the Trail.

Another special thank you goes to our seasonal technical advisors, Rowan and Kiki, who helped facilitate the weekend and received high praise from the Tropical Trekkers for their leadership and support.

We are deeply grateful to everyone who showed up, put in the miles, and gave their time and energy. Thank you, volunteers!

Learn more about the Tropical Trekkers Chapter here, or get connected with your local chapter!

Photos by Eleanor Lopez

LAST CALL for Volunteer Award Nominations!

Know someone who’s made a big impact on the Florida Trail?

Now’s your chance to shine a spotlight on their amazing work!

Each year, the Florida Trail Association honors members, volunteers, partners, and supporters who go above and beyond to protect and promote the Florida Trail. Visit www.floridatrail.org/volunteer-awards to submit your nomination.

🗓️ Nominations close December 22, 2025, at 5 PM EST.

🏕️ 2025 Award Winners will be celebrated at Florida Trail Fest with an awards ceremony on Saturday evening, March 7th.

👉 Submit your nomination today at floridatrail.org/volunteer-awards

🌿 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

Gift Membership

Still searching for a last-minute gift? Give the outdoor lovers in your life an FTA Membership! It’s a gift that unlocks members-only events, workshops, discounts, and more. Wrap up connection, adventure, and impact all in one easy present.  

Thru-Hiker Map Packet

Give the ultimate gift for the avid hiker in your life. The Florida Trail Thru Hiker Packet, with all 46 official weatherproof maps, the essential Data Book, and a Florida Trail Passport. This all-in-one bundle has everything they need to plan, navigate, and celebrate their journey on the FT.