[Fisheating Creek - picture taken by Clyde Butcher]

Fisheating Creek by Clyde Butcher

Florida, see it like a Native

Now don't get me wrong, I'm not even going to attempt to convince you that hiking the Florida Trail compares to hiking the Appalachian Trail, or any of the other great trails which have mountains to climb and offer views which will take your breath away. My purpose here is to remind myself that although Florida doesn't have the mountains, which I love so much, it's unique nature has a magic of it's own. Life has taught me that being with the right people is more important than being in the right place.

WHERE TO GO

Visit The Big Cypress Gallery for a look at the Photographic Art of Clyde Butcher. If you like photography and you've never seen his work, don't miss this site!
Florida Trail Association
The Fakahatchee Strand State Preserve is best known for its orchids, bromeliads, ferns, and royal palms. I believe this is the only Royal Palm-Cypress Forest in the world, and home to the Ghost Orchid.
Myakka River State Park located on S.R. 72 in Sarasota, 9 miles east of I-75. Hike the 39-mile hiking trail or canoe the Wild and Scenic Myakka river
The Torreya Trail is a 15 mile hiking trail in Torreya State Park north of Bristol on the east banks of the Apalachicola River .. Primitive campsites available (call 904/643-2674)
Wekiwa (flowing waters) Springs State Park - 13.5 mile hiking loop which is part of the Florida Trail.
Cape Florida - located at the extreme end of Key Biscayne, is one of my favorite places to rollerblade and practice my fly casting. The historic Cape Florida Lighthouse is the oldest building in south Florida. Mosquitos can be a REAL problem .. it's always a good idea to get a mosquito status report before going (305)361-5811
Florida Camping, Canoeing, and Hiking Trails
Canoe the Wilderness Waterway - a 99 mile inland water route between Flamingo and Everglades City
Ocala National Forest
Everglades (River of Grass) National Park is rich in history and a photographers dream. Perhaps one day I'll get around to posting some of my pictures. Water plays a crucial part in the survival of the Everglades. Read Everglades 101 to better understand the Everglades ecosystem.
Biscayne National Park - 180,000 acres, 95 % is water and living coral reefs. This place is a paradise for marine life, water birds, snorkelers, and divers!
Florida State Parks Home Page
Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission - Florida Fishing License Information, Fishing Forecasts and Fishing Site Locator

LATEST TRAIL REPORT

Collier Seminole State Park (SE of Napels) (941) 394-3397. 6.5 mile hiking trail (part of the Florida Trail), features flatwoods and cypress swamp. We tried to camp here May 1st .. FORGET IT! Mosquitos will eat you alive! Next time we'll go further north.
July .. Angels Rest, Virginia - part of the Appalachian Trail .. hope to see you all out there.

send comments or questions to: Brigitte
hearnr@fiu.edu

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