July 2022 Florida Trail E-Blaze

July 2022

The Florida Trail Southern Terminus in Big Cypress National Preserve Gets a New Look!

As a part of the US Forest Service's partnership with the National Parks Service, Florida Trail Association volunteers and National Parks Service staff were able to add a new and inviting beginning (or end) to the Florida Trail.

A new crushed shell path leads hikers, and hopefully curious visitors, from the Oasis Boardwalk into the Big Cypress Preserve. Hikers can also visit our new kiosk to learn all about the Florida Trail and what awaits them in the swamp!

Thank you to our partners for this wonderful addition to the Florida Trail Southern Terminus!

Re-cap of the 2022 Florida National Scenic Trail Coalition Meeting

Earlier this month, members of the Florida National Scenic Trail Coalition met for the first time since the pandemic in Naples and in Big Cypress National Preserve for a field adventure. Coalition meetings serve as gatherings for Florida National Scenic Trail land managers and partners to discuss progress toward the goals of our strategic plan.

Representatives from the US Forest Service, the Florida Trail Association, Big Cypress National Preserve, Florida Forest Service, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Orange County, Seminole County, and University of Florida joined in person and virtually. In addition to ours goals, the group discussed visitor usage on the Florida Trail, new GIS tools, and the upcoming 40-year Anniversary of FNST designation.

Thank you to all who attended and thank you to our partners for your continued commitment to the Florida National Scenic Trail!

FNST Coalition

Florida Trail Data Book on Sale!

On sale now for $5!

A pocket-sized, detailed chart of mileage points along the Florida Trail, including features such as campsites, water sources, road crossings, trailheads, and re-supply spots. A must-have for thru-hikers and section hikers, valuable for day hikers and weekenders.

Head to the FTA Shop to grab a copy for your next adventure on the Florida Trail.

FTA Shop

Comings and Goings

The Florida Trail Association has had some changes to the board and staff this summer. Sean Spence resigned from the board and was replaced by Shawn Naugle at Board of Directors meeting in June. Bill Bush, who was elected in 2021, also resigned his board seat. The seat vacated by Alan Bradshaw is still vacant.

Trail Program Director, Kelly Van Patten, resigned her position. Kelly will be greatly missed but we wish her and her family great success in their new ventures in New York. Adam Fryska, Panhandle Trail Program Manager, has been promoted to Trail Program Director and we are in the process of replacing Adam in the Panhandle. We are also in the process of hiring for a Gateway Communities Coordinator, a new full-time position, and will shortly be advertising for an Administrative Assistant and a seasonal Technical Advisor. FTA is thrilled to grow, expand our capacity, and provide advancement opportunities.

Meet the FTA Team

Wild Florida Trail Run

We're excited to partner with Rum Bum Tours on this incredible trail run along the beautiful Suwannee River with 50k / 20k / 8k options. All proceeds benefit the Florida Trail Association!

All fitness levels welcome, including hikers and walkers.

We encourage you to get signed up and make reservations for lodging soon.

More details here: FloridaTrail.org/fta50k

Wild Florida Trail Run

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Florida Trail Association