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January 10, 2025

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

Trail Accessibility Event in Gainesville, FL

Join us on February 22nd, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM for a day of family-friendly fun and adventure! Hosted by the Florida Trail Association, Alachua Conservation Trust, Sportsability Alliance, and EcoRover, this event is designed to make the outdoors more accessible to everyone.


What to Expect:

🌾Explore the trail using the EcoRover or Jolette accessibility devices

🍃Meet organizations working to make the outdoors accessible to all

🌿Participate in demos and training sessions for those interested in volunteering


Details:


Location: Prairie Creek Lodge, 7204 County Road 234, Gainesville, FL 32641

Accessible restrooms available at the Lodge

The area surrounding the lodge is soft grass, and the road leading into the lodge is a dirt road, but accessible by regular cars


Hike Options:

🌾.6 mile loop with scenic views of wetlands and hammocks

🍃A shorter trip around the Native plant garden area

🌿EcoRover and Jolette devices available on a rolling basis, with 30-minute time slots and 15-minute buffer between trips


To Participate:

Pre-register to secure your time slot and choose from the available hike options (we will do our best to accommodate everyone)

Walk-ins are welcome if you don’t register in advance.

If you plan to use the EcoRover or Jolette, please bring a family member or buddy to assist with the transfer.


We look forward to seeing you there for a fun and accessible outdoor experience!


For more info and to register, visit: Floridatrail.org/ftaccess


Trail Accessibility Event

South Region Conference - Fisheating Creek WMA - Palmdale - Jan 3rd-5th, 2025


Report-back from Abe Christian, Acting Executive Director

What a fantastic time we had at the 39th South Region Conference at Fisheating Creek! I was so pleased to see so many familiar faces and welcome some new ones. The highlight for many, myself included, were the guided hikes. Exploring the trails and learning about the local flora and fauna was truly enriching. We were also treated to some excellent speaker presentations. I especially enjoyed David Denham's insights into the history of the Fisheating Creek area and Bea Rogers' inspiring story of creating the Ocean to Lake Hiking Trail. Their passion for the trails was contagious.


Beyond the hikes and talks, the social aspect of the conference was top-notch. The catered meals were delicious, but I have to say, the s'mores around the campfire each evening were a real treat! It was the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow hikers, share stories, and simply enjoy the beautiful surroundings. The silent auction was also a resounding success, raising important funds for the local chapters of the FTA.


One of the unexpected bonuses of holding the conference at the Outpost Campground was the opportunity to interact with other campers. We had many friendly conversations and were able to raise awareness about the FTA and the important work we do. It was a wonderful weekend of hiking, learning, camaraderie, and outreach—a true testament to the spirit of the Florida Trail Association.

Honoring the Life and Contributions of David Waldrop

Photo: David Waldrop and Leslie Wheeler at the Smith Lake Preserve celebration


It is with a heavy heart that we share the news of the passing of David Waldrop, a longtime member and dedicated volunteer of the Florida Trail Association. David’s passion for the Florida Trail and his tireless contributions over the years have made a lasting impact on our community.


David was leading an FTA hike in Bellini Preserve, surrounded by hikers who knew and loved him, truly in his element, loving life on the trail. His history with the Florida Trail is immense, having served as a board member and integral volunteer for many years.


During this difficult time, we invite you to join us in keeping his family and loved ones in your thoughts.


A memorial service will be held 3:00 PM, Friday, January 10, 2025 at Marion Nelson Funeral Home in Lake Wales with Rev. Dr. Bill Fisackerly officiating.


If you would like to share any memories or condolences, please visit David’s memorial webpage.


With heartfelt sympathy,

The Florida Trail Association


Join the Tropical Trekkers for the 7th Annual Micco Bluff Celebration!

Support the Trail:

Help Us Fund a Reliable Work Vehicle!

Our Technical Advisors and North Florida Regional Manager need a reliable vehicle to maintain and improve critical trail infrastructure. Their current outdated truck lacks essential features like four-wheel drive and air conditioning, making it difficult to navigate challenging terrain and requiring frequent costly repairs. We’re raising $70,000 to purchase a dependable replacement, and your support will directly help our team continue delivering essential services to the trail community.


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