Past Issues

 
Issue 28

Dec. 2000 - Feb. 2001 

12/2
Saturday
Leisure
Orange County

Rock Springs Run Paddle

Join us for one of Florida’s most beautiful waterways. This is a leisure 8-mile trip through dense cypress, pine, and hardwood forests of Central Florida. The clear water of the run flows swiftly through some stretches, but slows in others where the stream widens into quiet pools. We’ll meet at kings landing in Apopka and do our own shuttle. Rentals are available, call livery for directions and rental info (407-886-0859). Camping is available at nearby Kelly Park (407-889-4179) Launch and take-out fee $6.00 per boat. Reservations required. Members and their invited guest only. Limit 12 boats. Event host: Jim Adtkins 407-892-5373 0r kboat@webtv.net.

12/2
Sat 8:30 AM
Strenuous
Volusia County  
Spruce Creek Trail Ride

Spruce Creek Trail Ride-Come Mountain bike this trail near New Smyrna Beach. It takes you to high overlooks of Spruce Creek and it's tidal waters. We'll ride along a swampy spot with lush vegetation and meander through hilly oaks and pine. Helmets are mandatory. Reservations required, limited trip. Members and their invited guest only. Event host: Mary Ellen Bell (904)761-7418 orbellme@cts.db.erau.edu.

12/2-3
Sat./Sun
Strenuous
Calhoun County
Torreya State Park Backpack

Backpack through some of Florida’s finest scenery. Torreya State Park contains many ravines and deciduous forests more common in the Appalachian Mountains. We'll backpack to Rock Bluff, a beautiful primitive campsite on a high bluff overlooking the Apalachicola River. The moderate loop trail is seven miles long. Limited trip, reservations required, members and their invited guest only. Deadline for response: 11/25/00. Further details & directions upon registration. To reserve your spot on this trip send $5pp & a SASE to 4090 Hodges Blvd. Apt. 3303, Jacksonville, Fl 32224. Trip Host: Rick Stanton, (904)-992-0957 or r.r.stanton@worldnet.att.net.

12/3
Sun/ 9 AM

Moderate
Orange County
Wekiwa Springs State Park Day Hike

We'll walk some of the more remote part of the main trail, eat lunch at either Camp Cozy or Big Buck Camp, and end up at the Sand Lake parking area. This is a 7+ mile hike, mostly through well-shaded and heavily forested areas. No reservations required. Contact host by12/1. Directions: From I-4, Exit 49, go west on SR 434 about a mile to Wekiva Springs Rd. Turn right and go 4 miles to park entrance. $4.00 per vehicle. We will meet at the Sand Lake parking area inside the park. Members and their invited guest only. Event hosts: Chuck and Gail Russakov. russakov@mpinet.net (preferred) or 407-774-5737.

12/4-8
Mon-Fri.
Moderate

Cancelled - To be reschedule for another date...

Blackwater River Paddle & Camp Cancelled

Host: Peter Blichfeldt kayak@cfl.rr.com (preferred) (407) 298-6662. 

12/5
Tue.
Moderate

Orange County
Wekiva Springs State Park Hike

Come enjoy a 6-mile hike through wilderness. The Wekiva trail passes through open woods of pine and palmetto hardwood hammocks, and vine tangles jungles. The trail makes several picturesque crossings of spring-fed streams. Directions: from I-4 exit 49 turn W. on SR 434 and 1.0 miles to Wekiva Springs Rd., follow signs to Wekiva Springs State Park 4.0 miles. $3.25 per vehicle. Meet in the parking lot. Please call if you are planning to meet us at the park. Members and their invited guest only. Event host: Mary Kelsh 407-628-4908.

12/9
Sat/9am
Leisure
Volusia County
Dead River and Canals Paddle

This will be a 6+ mile tour of the old logging canals that connect the Hontoon Dead River and the St. Johns river. It will be a leisure paddle with no tight turns or obstacles, however, there will be some open water and wind could be a factor. We will stop for lunch afterward, in the park, where you may wish to paddle up Blue Springs Run, or stroll up the boardwalks to the boil, or swim in the cool crystal clear water. Directions: Take I-4 to Exit 53CB, Orange City. Go west on Saxon Blvd. To Rts. 17,92. Turn right and go 2.8 miles to E. French Ave. Go left 2.1 miles to Blue Springs State Park. Entrance Fee $2 for a one occupant vehicle, $4 for 2-8 occupants. We will meet at 8 AM when the park opens. No reservations. Event Host: Larry Blundell larry.b.blundell@lmco.com or 407 381 4969.

12/10
Sun/ 9 AM
Moderate
Brevard
Merritt Island's Ulumay Wildlife Refuge Paddle

 Join us for a fun paddle along a series of winding trails through a scenic mangrove estuary. Home to numerous waterfowl, wading birds, and raptors this time of year – the 3-hour trip will skirt half the perimeter of the refuge and return. No carry-overs, but basic paddling skills are a must. From Orlando: Take Hwy 528 (Beeline) east 6 miles past the I-95 interchange to SR 3, then right (south) 3 miles to Hwy 520. Turn left (east) and go ½ mile to Burger King, where we’ll meet. (NOTE: you pass a Burger King on SR 3 -- this is NOT the meeting place!) Come early for breakfast; we depart for the put-in at 9:00 AM sharp. Lunch at an area restaurant afterwards. Sorry -- no rental boats available. Members and their invited guest only. No reservations required. Event host: Larry Reed paddleFL@aol.com.

12/15-17
Sat-Sun
8 AM

Manatee
Myakka River State Park Paddle & Camp 

Famous for its alligators and other diverse wildlife and semitropical feel. The river flows slowly through a dim and mysterious channel. One of only two rivers in Florida designated as Wild and Scenic. Put-in is at the state park no shuttle required. Arrive before dark on Friday, as we shall put-in at 8:00 a.m. SHARP and paddle from the big Myakka Lake to the small lake and back. Last February we were treated to a wide range of birds and a larger range of gators. If you have never paddled this it is a must. Will find a half day paddle for Sunday a.m. We will potluck dinner on Saturday night around the campfire. Bring your favorite dish and some firewood. Located 12 miles east of Sarasota. For directions and camping info call (941) 361-6511. Reservations required. Host: Peter Blichfeldt (preferred) kayak@cfl.rr.com or (407) 298-6662.

12/16
Sat
Seminole
 
 
Wilderness Trekker Holiday Party 

Mike and Alice invite their Trekker friends to join them for the annual Wilderness Trekkers holiday party at their beautiful home in rural Lake Mary. Their log house, nestled on a 5-acre natural wooded lot and surrounded by acres of woods, will be decked to the hilt with holiday delights. Beer, mix for drinks, ice, firewood, and BBQ chicken will be provided. Please also bring your favorite dish/appetizer to share. BYO beverage, camp chair, and table setting, please. BYO swimsuit if you wish to relax in the spa, and bring instruments for the holiday sing if you have them! Limited primitive camping is available for those who would rather not drive home. This event is limited to WT members and their (1) invited guest only, and due to the expected turnout, your RSVP is requested. For RSVP, directions, start time, and further details, please e-mail WT president Larry Reed at paddleFL@aol.com or send SASE to 510 Harrison Ave, Cape Canaveral, FL 32920. -- RSVP requested by Wednesday, 13 December.

12/17
 
Sun/8:30 AM
Leisure 
Seminole
Lake Monroe Conservation Area Paddle/ Photo field trip 

Join us for a leisurely paddle through a beautiful section of the St. Johns river. This area is filled with wildlife. You are likely to see bald eagles, deer, herons, egrets, and a variety of other wading birds. We will concentrate on taking photographs of birds in the bush, so this paddle will have no destination in mind. We will paddle slowly and cautiously to an area with wild life and stay as long as we’re getting good pictures. Be prepared to have your camera in the boat with you, extra towels and a plastic bag. Directions: From I-4, exit 46A, go East 7 miles, (46A becomes Hwy 46 east of 17-92) Cross 17-92 and continue on Hwy 46; pass the Citgo 7-11 at Hwy 415 and go 1 more mile to Genvea Rd. turn Left to Cameron Wright Park for the put in. Reservations required members and their guests. There are no boat rentals available. We will meet at the put-in. Event host: Jamie Aiello AIELLOFOTO@worldnet.att.net 407-880-8452.

12/23
Sat/9 AM

Moderate
Volusia
Indian River Paddle

Come join us for a great 3 -4 hour paddle on the Indian River near the New Smyrna area. We will paddle across the Indian River and head towards the small islands that dot the area. The islands should be filled with many birds, as this is the migratory season. On our last visit we escorted by at least 75 various birds on one of the islands. We also saw dolphins and a shipwreck. Afterwards we can enjoy lunch at the Breakers restaurant. A casual restaurant which sits so close to the ocean you can practically dangle your toes in the water while you eat. Good paddling skills are necessary for this trip. Members and guest call or email for directions. Event host Jamie Aiello 407-880-8452 AIELLOFOTO@worldnet.att.net.

12/30-1/1
Sat - Mon

New Years Campout

Join us to bring in the New Year Trekker's style. This year we'll meet at Moss Park in Orlando on Saturday, 12/30 through Monday, 1/1/2001. Come for the daytime activities or pitch a tent and spend the night. Camping will require pre-registration please send $2.00 per person per night, and SASE to Debi Ritt P.O. Box 700122, St. Cloud, FL 34770-0122. If you are coming for day activities only, no registration is required; there is a $1.00 park entrance fee. We have a large group campsite reserved and the group campfire ring is reserved for Dec. 31 to accommodate those that would like to come for the evening campfire only. Bring your boats for a leisurely, early morning birding paddle. This event is for members and their invited quest only. More information to follow on the website in December. Contact event host Debi Ritt tippycanoe3@hotmail.com.

1/1
Mon 9AM
Leisure
Split Oak Forest day-hike

In conjunction with the New Years Campout (see above 12/30-1/1) Join the Trekkers on a 4.2 mile hike through the Split Oak Forest. Located in southeast Orange County, this magnificent 1,700 acre forest offers much evidence that it is a preserve for wildlife. Split Oak Forest contains an example of almost every type of central Florida habitat. Hikers may catch a glimpse of sandhill cranes, scrub jays, fox squirrels, deer and more. No reservations are required for the hike. For directions to the trailhead, call the park at (407) 273-2327. Members only. Event leader: Jerry Sirmans 407.359.9422 Jerry_Sirmans@stricom.army.mil, Co-leader: Chuck Russakov. website can be found at Moss Park.

1/5-7
Fri-Sun

Moderate
Polk County
Lake Kissimmee State Park Paddle and Camp

Meet at Park Friday evening to get acquainted and “swap yarns”. Saturday morning, take Zipper Canal across park into Rosalie Creek, down to Tiger Lake, up Tiger Creek, skirt small edge of Lake Kissimmee and back into Zipper Canal to camp ground. This is an approximate 5-7 hour moderate paddle depending on the water level. There are a number of wonderful activities available at the park for Sunday morning. The camping fees are $15.32 per night for 8 people and 2 tents per site with water and electricity. With no electricity or water (on the honor system) the fee is $13.20. Members and non-members welcome, reservations required by 12/15/00. Event Host: Claudet Benton, 12455 Grumman Way, Port St. Lucie, FL 34987, Fax 561/466-8801, email:jcb1564@aol.com. Co-host: Kimberly Cummings.

1/6
Sat / 8:30 AM

Strenuous
Volusia County
Spruce Creek Trail Ride

Spruce Creek Trail Ride-Come Mountain bike this trail near New Smyrna Beach. It takes you to high overlooks of Spruce Creek and it's tidal waters. We'll ride along a swampy spot with lush vegetation and meander through hilly oaks and pine. Helmets are mandatory. Reservations required, limited trip. Members and their invited guest only. Event host: Mary Ellen Bell (904)761-7418 orbellme@cts.db.erau.edu.

1/7
Sun/9:00am
Leisure
Broward
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge Hike/ Scenic Drive

Merritt Island NWR is one of the most well known birding locations in the world. At and around Christmas is the peak time for migratory birds. It is not uncommon to see just about every kind of bird you’ve ever heard of somewhere in the refuge. The refuge is a salt marsh estuary with small hammock islands and mangrove patches. There is a short scenic drive with numerous pullovers as well as a five-mile hiking trail along the way. Directions: from the intersection of the Beeline (Hwy 528) and I-95 go north on I-95 to Hwy 406 (Exit 80). Head east on 406, across the causeway. The NWR Visitor Center (our meeting place) is on the south (right) side of the road. Reservations Required limit 20 people, non-members welcome. Host: Rob Boersma 321-725-7829.

1/13
Sat / 8:30 AM
Leisure

Polk County
Alafia River Paddle

This River is fairly swift, especially for Central Florida and some small shoals are exposed in low water. It is a narrow, twisting trail that begins at Alderman Ford County Park. Large oak, cypress and cedar trees line the banks and form a canopy overhead. We'll get an early start Saturday morning to shuttle canoes and cars to our take out point Lithia Springs Park. There is a small donation fee required at both Aldermans Ford and Lithia Springs Parks. Lunch will be on the banks of the river. Paddling an estimated 4 hours on the 12 miles we will cover, we should be at the take out point by mid-afternoon. Canoe rental reservations available from Alafia River Canoe Rentals (813) 689-8645 (request their brochure be sent to you when you speak with them). If you are going to utilize the livery, you will need to be there by 7:30AM to be certain that you are at the put-in when the rest of the group is ready to start at 8:30. Excellent camping is available at nearby Lithia Springs County Park (813) 744-5572 and Aldermans Ford County Park (813) 681-7900. Directions: West on I-4 to Plant City, exit 13. South approx. 11 mi. on route 39 to Thompson Rd. Turn right. The Alderman Ford Park canoe launch area is on the right. Reservations required members only, limit 15 boats. Event host: Debi Ritt tippycanoe3@hotmail.com (preferred) cell phone 407-922-2209

1/13
Sat / 8:30
Leisure
Lake County
Seminole Forest Hike

The south entrance to this beautiful forest is located on HWY 46 approximately 10 miles west of I-4 and Sanford/Lake Monroe. After passing the road that leads to Katie's Landing and then crossing the Wekiva River Bridge, look for the Forest sign on the right. If coming from the west, the forest is about two miles after the Bear Crossing. We'll meet at 8:30 and then carpool to the north entrance to begin our 8 mile hike. This is a moderate hike with a variety of terrain. We will stop at Shark's Tooth Spring and have lunch at Blackwater Creek. No reservations required. Guests welcome. Hosts: Lynn and Kurth Chin Fatt lvh@mpinet.net if you need more information. 407-331-8609.

1/14
Sun 7:30AM
Strenuous
Marion County
Santos Greenway Mountain Bike Ride

Join us for a half-day of quality mountain biking at one of Florida’s premier off-road riding destinations. With its 40+ miles of quality trails on 300 acres of Florida’s Greenway. Trails are marked for varying levels of technical difficulty, bring plenty of water, we will ride till about 11:30 and have lunch back at our cars. Helmets are mandatory, reservations required, open to members and guests, call for reservations. Directions: From Orlando take the turnpike west to I-75 northbound, exit I-75 on CR484 east (exit #67), continue to US 27/301/441 and go north about 5 miles, turn left on 80th St. (CR328, just past the Sheriff’s Station), .1 mile look for sign and turn left on the dirt road and follow to the end trailhead parking area. Host: Eric Kendrick 407-445-0603 or kendrije@sverdrup.com.

1/14
Sun/8:30 AM
Moderate
Bulow Creek Day Hike

The scenic Bulow Woods Trail runs north from Bulow Creek State Park to Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic Site. White-tailed deer, barred owls, and raccoon are often seen amid lush stands of live oak, hardwood swamp, and salt marsh. We'll begin our 7-mile hike at the Park, arriving at the Historic Site in about 4 hours, and then take some time to explore the ruins and interpretive center. We will arrange our own car shuttle back to the trailhead. Parking at the Historic Site is $2/vehicle. Directions: Take I-4 north from Orlando about 45 miles to I-95, then north 17 miles to exit 90 (Old Dixie Hwy). Turn right (east) and follow road about 2 miles to Park entrance on left. NOTE – look for the Wilderness Trekkers sign! Members and their invited guest only – no reservations required. There is camping available nearby at Tomoka State Park (904-676-4050). Event Host: Larry Reed paddleFL@aol.com .

1/16
Tue 9AM

Moderate
Volusia
Blue Springs State Park Hike

Blue Springs plays a vital role in the survival of the manatee. An observation platform provides a view of the endangered mammals that gather at the spring from November through March. Come early or stay late to view the manatees. We will hike the 8.8 mile trail and have lunch on the banks of the St. Johns River. Directions: take I-4 N to exit 54; CR 472 West to dead end; right (south) off ramps onto 17/92 S. one mile, right to French Ave 2.1 miles, left into park 1.2 miles to trailhead our meeting place. Please call if you are going to meet us at the trailhead. There is a $4.00 per car entrance fee to the park. Host: Mary Kelsh 407-628-4908, Co-host: Mary Ann Freyer.

1/19-21
Fri-Sun
Moderate
Loxahatchee River Paddle and Camp

Paddle the Wild and Scenic Loxahatchee River, a pristine waterway meandering 8 miles under a heavy canopy of native growth. Friday: Arrive at Jonathan Dickinson State Park (Martin County) before dark. Saturday 8:00 AM SHARP Loxahatchee River paddle. We will run our own shuttle. Saturday evening we will have a pot luck dinner and campfire. Bring food and firewood. Sunday: paddle a section of the Intracoastal Waterway. (Kayaks only) No shuttle required. Reservations required. Limited to 12 boats. Upon confirmation call JDSP at (561) 546-2771 for camping reservations. Campsites are for up to two automobiles and 8 people. Members and their invited guest only. Event Host: Peter Blichfeldt kayak@cfl.rr.com preferred or 407-298-6662.

1/20-21
Sat - Sun

Moderate
Orange County
Rock Springs/Wekiva River Paddle/Camp

Paddling to your campsite is always an adventure and lots of fun. We'll do just that as we spend 2-days/1 night exploring a 22-mile stretch of the scenic Rock Springs/Wekiva River runs. At about the midway point we'll set up camp at a primitive riverbank site. If you have never tried canoe/kayak camping this would be a good first trip. Limited trip due to permit restrictions. Contact host by January 15 to register and to obtain additional details. Host: Chuck Jones 407-892-2105 or kayakk@webtv.net.

1/21
 
Sun 8AM
Volusia
Blue Springs State Park Hike

Blue Springs State Park hosts a first magnitude spring, a scenic ¼ mile boardwalk along the spring run, and a 4 mile one–way (8 miles round trip) hiking trail into the back country. We will be going in the height of manatee season when the spring run is loaded with wintering manatees. We’ll hike in the backcountry trail and eat a snack on the beach at the end. The trail hosts a magnolia hammock, a cypress dome and a Palmetto Scrub ecosystem. Directions: North of Orlando on Hwy 17/92 to Orange City (or Hwy 472 exit off of I-4 (exit 54), then go west to 17-92 and back south slightly to Orange City.) In Orange City there is a large brown sign pointing out the park down a small westward road. Reservations required limit 20 people, non-members welcome. There is a $4.00 per carload (max 8 people) entrance fee to the park. Host: Rob Boersma 321-725-7829.

1/26-28
 
Sat-Sun
Strenuous
Lee County

Cayo Costa Island State Park Kayak & Camp

Take a kayak trip with us to Cayo Costa Island. This 2000+ acre state park is one of Florida's largest unspoiled barrier islands. Accessible only by boat, it is located 6 miles west of Pine Island. On Friday morning we'll paddle from Pine Island to Cayo Costa and that afternoon will explore the island. On Saturday we'll fish, shell, hike, and/or relax. Late that afternoon we'll paddle to Cabbage "Cheeseburger in Paradise" Key for dinner at the restaurant and moonlight paddle back. On Sunday we'll return to the mainland. Cabin reservations have been made. Kayak rentals are available. This trip is limited to 18 experienced kayakers. Guests welcome, but members have first priority. Reservations are required by 12/01/00. Prior to the trip, we will host an information seminar, which you must attend. Detailed information will be provided upon registration and receipt of a SASE. Event Hosts: Bob Stevens and Tina Hamilton (407) 816-4224 (evenings) or thamilton@harcourt.com. Send SASE to Bob and Tina at 3254 Inverness Ct.,

2/4
Sun
8:30 AM
Strenuous
Volusia

Spruce Creek Trail Ride

Come Mountain bike this trail near New Smyrna Beach. It takes you to high overlooks of Spruce Creek and it’s tidal waters. We’ll ride along a swampy spot with lush vegetation and meander through hilly oaks and pine. Helmets are mandatory. Reservations required limited trip. Members and their invited guest only. Event host: Mary Ellen Bell (904) 761-7418 or bellme@cts.db.erau.edu.

2/4
Sun/9:00 AM

Moderate
Osceola
Prairie Lakes Day Hike and Paddle

This is a section of the Three Lakes Wildlife Management area. We'll hike the 5+ mile south loop trail, eat lunch at Parker Slough, and continue back to the parking area. Those who wish can then paddle and observe the abundant wildlife on Lake Jackson. Directions: From St. Cloud, travel south on SR523, Vermont Ave., becoming Canoe Creek Rd., approx. 25 miles. Pass the sign for Three Lakes WMA and continue approx. 2 miles to the Lake Jackson-Prairie Lakes sign. Turn in, pay the $3 daily use fee and proceed over the bridge at Parker Slough. Turn at the Lake Jackson Boat Ramp sign and then turn left into the parking area just before the boat ramp. DeLorme Atlas and Gazetteer p. 94. Members and their invited guest only. No reservation needed, but please notify host if planning to attend, so that updates can be provided. Event host: Chuck Russakov russakov@mpinet.net.

2/6
Tues 9:00
AM
Moderate
Volusia
Seminole State Forest Hike

The distinctive character of Seminole State Forest is its ecological diversity, which includes almost all of the naturally occurring vegetation communities found in Central Florida. A peaceful 7.5 mile hike and leisurely lunch at Blackwater Creek should be enjoyed by all. Directions: exit I-4 at exit 51/Sanford; take SR46 west 7.5 miles; right on to SR46A 5.6 miles; right onto SR44 four miles. Look for the trailhead, our meeting place, on Blantely Branch Rd. Please call if you are going to meet at the trailhead. Host: Mary Kelsh 407-628-4908, Co-host: Mary Ann Freyer.

2/10
Sat 9:30 AM
Leisure

Winter Park Chain of Lakes Paddle

We will explore Lake Virginia, Lake Osceola and Lake Maitland during this “Urban” Wilderness Trek. These beautiful lakes are connected by narrow canals built during the early part of the century to serve the logging industry and provide abundant opportunities to observe Osprey, Heron and Egret, and even an occasional gator. We will also be observing numerous homes and parks and possibly even have an encounter with the Winter Park Boat Tour. Further details and directions will be provided to registered participants. Open to members and their invited guests. Limit 12 boats. Event Hosts Shelley Claudin claudin@bellsouth.net and Debi Ritt.

4/7-8
Sat - Sun
Leisure
Seminole
Lake Mills Paddle/Canoe Camping Clinic

  Enhancing your paddling skills will increase your enjoyment of the activity. Our Instructor for this event will be Claudet Benton and will include the "tippy test" in the lake, demonstrations and practice of various paddling strokes, as well as safety considerations, together with planning and packing for canoe camping and other skills. Join us for a group camping/canoeing weekend at Lake Mills, with a possible paddle on the Econ (depending on water levels) to test our new and improved skills. Dinner Saturday night will be provided by the event host. Canoe Rentals will be available for this weekend through Hidden River Canoe Rentals (407)568-5346. This event will be limited to 20 participants-to secure your reservation send $12.00 with SASE to Debi Ritt P.O. Box 700122 St. Cloud, FL 34770-0122 The fee will cover camping and the instruction manual. Host Debi Ritt tippycanoe3@hotmail.com(407)922-2259 Co Host Dee Fuentes