Wilderness Trekkers, Orlando kayaking, Orlando Hiking, Orlando Cycling, Silver Springs, Rock Springs, Jacksonville-Balwin Trail, Orlando adventure, Orlando camping, Orlando Backpacking

09/25 - 9/27/2009
Friday - Sunday
Time: Contact Host
Paddle
Moderate
Loxahatchee River and
Jonathan Dickinson S.P.
Jupter FL

Loxahatchee River Paddle and Jonnathan Dickinson State Park Camping - We will be day paddling the Wild and Scenic Loxahatchee River on Saturday. We will be car camping in Jonathan Dickinson State Park on Friday and Saturday nights. This river has earned the name "Wild and Scenic" The first 2/3s of the river is narrow, very twisting and beautiful. In fact, it is one of the most beautiful in Florida. We paddle to a historic site that was the property of the legendary Trapper Nelson. We can explore the premesis on our own, and may even get a ranger tour. The last part of the river is wider, and open with mangroves.

There are good hiking and biking opportunities for Sunday.

Event Host: Nancy Doucette (561)968-1789 kayakldy@yahoo.com

09/27/2009
Sunday
8:30AM meet Paddle
Training
Kayak Rolling Clinic
Location: Contact Host

Kayak Rolling Clinic- For All Skill Levels - If you know Ken Knapton, then you know he is THE best instructor. The session is about three to four - hour long with Ken Knapton, Michael Shugg and Mariam Mohsenin. RSVP is required. For members only. PFD (Type III) and whistle are required on all sessions. We'll start at 9:00, so meet at 8:30 for a 9:00 Start, come early to ready yourself.

Event Host: Focus all questions and reservations to Mariam Mohsenin at (407)325-7596, mohseninma@gmail.com

10/2 - 10/4/2009
Friday - Sunday
Time: See Details Biking
Leisurely
Ameilia Island
Ft Clinch State Park
Fernandina FL

Northeast Florida Bike Rides – Amelia Island & Jacksonville-Baldwin Rails-to-Trails - Fort Clinch State Park is one of Florida’s great parks all unto itself. It is a very large park surrounded on 3 sides by the Amelia River to the west, St Mary’s on the north and the Atlantic Ocean on the east. Cumberland Island appears to be a stone throw across the treacherous St. Mary’s inlet. It has this tremendous 2 mile canopied drive to the fartherest northeast point in Florida where there are 2 campgrounds and the completely intact Fort Clinch historical site. This and the historic town of Fernandina Beach and parts of the north end of Amelia Island will consitiute our Saturday bike ride. Sunday we will break camp and head west of Jacksonville to the Jacksonville-Baldwin Rails-to-Trails path. We will be camping at Little Talbot Islando State Park south of Amelia Island. There are sitll plenty of camp sites available. The idea is to come Friday so that we can depart camp on Saturday morning to begin our cycling. For all the details of this weekend, including the best camp sites, along with some pictures of Talbot Island, Amelia Island, Fort Clinch and Fernandina Beach, click the Amelia Island and Jacksonville-Baldwin link. Helmets required, ear buds prohibited by law.

Host: Clark Getz cagola1@aol.com 407 222 2846

10/3/2009
Saturday
9:00 AM Hike
Leisurely to Moderate
Wekiva Springs State Park
Apopka FL

Wekiva Spring Hike and Swim - Meet us at Wekiwa Springs State Park in front of the swimming area. We will carpool to the trailhead and hike for 6 miles in mostly shaded woods. We will end up back at our cars in front of the swimming area and cool off in that 72 degree water. It is the perfect way to end a hike in Florida! Bring a hat and plenty of water. Reservations not required but appreciated.

Hosts: Lynn and Kurth 407-331-8609 lynnvh@embarqmail.com

10/8 -10/11/2009
Thursday - Sunday
Paddling
Leisurely to Moderate
Sebastian Inlet Area
Vero Beach FL

2009 FL Paddlers’ Rendezvous - Sponsored by the Indian River Paddling Club, this is a state-wide coming together of paddlers/clubs.

Check out the Florida Paddlers' Rendezvous http://www.kayaksetc.com/Florida-Paddlers-Rendezvous.html website for more details. Paddling trips will be to Blue Cyprus Lake, St Sebastian River, Pelican Island Wildlife Refuge, Round Island Park, and spoil islands off Sebastian. Base of event and some camping is available at Skydive Sebastian with limited elec sites for RVs only ($15/night) and tent camping in a field ( $5/night); if you camp there mention the Paddlers' Rendezvous when making reservations. Other camping options include nearby Donald MacDonald Park (no elec, no reservations) or Sebastian Inlet State Park (about 35 min away). There are also specials for lodging, from $49 to $99 for motel rooms.

Also please check these websites for contact info, schedule and updates.

http://paddlersrendezvous.com/information.html
http://paddlersrendezvous.com/schedule.html

Wilderness Trekker Contacts: Erica Johnson or Linda Leeds lindamarie7@juno.com

10/16 - 10/18/09
Friday - Sunday
Time: contact host
Paddling w/camping
Moderate
Fisheating Creek
SW Lake Ockeechobee

Fisheating Creek Overnight River Camping Trip - Awesome River Camping on Fisheating Creek, west of Lake Okeechobee. It is one of the most beautiful rivers in the state. I plan to car camp in Palmdale on Thursday night, then put-in on Friday at Ingram's crossing. This is the prettiest part of the river. We will camp Friday night at Sand Lake. Then on Saturday night, we will camp at Lemon Lake. That will leave a shorter day of paddling on Sunday. There will be a fee of nearly $25.00 per boat for the shuttle. If anyone wants to go on Saturday, or just a day trip, we can make arrangements to meet.

Host: Nancy Doucette (561)968-1789 kayakldy@yahoo.com

10/18/09
Sunday
Time: 9:00 - 4:00
CPR/First Aid
American Red Cross
5 North Bumby AVe
Orlando

CPR/First Aid Training - Cost is $55.00. Train lay responders to overcome any reluctance to act in emergency situations and to recognize and care for life-threatening respiratory or cardiac emergencies in adults. Provide the lay responder with the knowledge and skills necessary in an emergency to help sustain life and to minimize pain and the consequences of injury or sudden illness until professional medical help arrives. See this link for every detail of the class - CPR. Click here for directions. Also, you can register for the class online.

Suggested opportunity brought forth by Mariam Mohsenin

Mid October
Weekend overnight
Time: contact host
Paddling w/camping
Moderate
Fisheating Creek
SW Lake Ockeechobee

Fisheating Creek Overnight River Camping Trip - FFisheating Creek flows into Southwestern Lake Okeechobee. It is one of those rivers that often doesn't have enough water to paddle. It rises and falls quickly. It's a live, healthy river, with lots of wildlife most of the time. So - when there's enough water to do the trip, and time enough to contact everyone beforehand, we'll do it then! We'll stay at Palmdale Campgrounds on Friday evening, and meet by the parking lot/boat ramp in the Palmdale Campgrounds on Saturday at 9 AM. The shuttle ride is $20 per boat (which includes the passenger(s) and the gear that go in it). Happy Hour and hors d'ouerves will be an integral part of the trip, which is really all about having a good time in the great outdoors. If you think you'd like to participate, sign up early, and then, drop off the trip f you can't make it when we have the water to do the trip. (Easy, if the water level is high enough).

Host: Jim Ostrander, j14152@gmail.com , 561-627-1943. I will be away from home between now and mid-October without regular access to e-mail, so I may not respond for weeks.

10/25/09
Sunday
Time: contact host
Paddling
Leisurely
Mosquito Lagoon
Bethune Beach

Mosquito Lagoon from Bethune beach - There is a small county park off Ladyfish Ave. in Bethune beach west of A1A. Ladyfish Ave is approximately one mile north of the Canaveral Natl Seashore entrance. This area is a great place to see Manatee and Dolphin. This is usually a leisurely trip but can get tricky if the winds pick up. We will paddle south towards Turtle mound and explore the area in the Canaveral National seashore. We can also explore the channels at Shipyard Island. This trip will be eight miles or less.

Event Host: Bill Smith madriver33@gmail.com or 407-488-7290

10/31/09 – 11/01/09
Saturday – Sunday
Time: contact host
Paddling w/camping
Moderate
Peace River
Fort Meade to
Zolfo Springs, FL

Annual Peace River Halloween Cruise - Fort Meade to Zolfo Springs. Wilderness camping. This is the prettiest part of the Peace, one too far north for the outfitters, so it's less traveled. It's narrower and has more twists and turns than the sections lower down, as well as a "waterfall," and a few mini-rapids. It also has a few rocky areas, so if the water is a bit low, you might get your bottom scratched! Our car-camping site on Friday night is very pretty and quiet, as is our wilderness site the next night. Pumpkin carving contest on Halloween. Sign up early, as space will be limited. (If water levels permit, we'll move upstream and put in at Bartow.)

Event Host: Linda Leeds, (561) 683-2851, lindamarie7@juno.com.

10/31/09 – 11/01/09
Friday – Sunday
Time: contact host
Paddling w/camping
Moderate
Peace River
Zolfo Springs, FL

Traditional Peace River Halloween Trip - Lower Peace River - This is P&P’s annual Halloween overnight camping trip on the Peace River. Plan on a happy hour with plenty of hors d'ouerves for Saturday evening, and pumpkin carving before dark for those who want to participate. If you're not a river camper and you'd like to go, but there's something you are unsure about regarding river camping, or you're missing some gear, maybe we can accommodate you. We’ll stay at Pioneer Park on Friday night, or if you don’t want to camp Friday night, meet us at the Pioneer Park boat ramp on Saturday for an 8 AM launch. Takeout and shuttle is on Sunday around noontime. If you need more information, feel free to call me.

Host: Jim Ostrander,j14152@gmail.com , 561-627-1943. I will be away from home between now and mid-October without regular access to e-mail, and may not respond promptly. No limit! All are welcome!

11/01/09
Sunday
Time: 8:30
Paddling
Moderate-Strenuous
Banana River
Cocoa Beach, FL

Paddling the 1000 Islands at Cocoa Beach, Banana River- We will meet at Beach Park and Ramp off S.R. 520 causeway. It is on the south side after you pass Merritt Island (See Map). If you pass the Cape Canaveral Hospital when traveling west, then you went too far. The park does not have toilet facilities but there are convenience stores and gas stations nearby.

This is a 9-10 mile paddle through the channels of the mangroves. 1000 Islands is a unique area which is mostly comprised of mangrove tunnels and mangrove islands. How many islands there really are is anybody's guess. Manatee and dolphin are usually present on the paddle over. This area was recently bought up so that it can be protected from further development. It's really nice to see areas like this preserved.

It is recommended that short recreation crafts NOT be used since the smaller boats could get blown around when crossing to the mangroves. ACA and coast guard rules apply. PFD's and whistles required, PFD's must be worn!

Host: Bill Smith madriver33@gmail.com 407-488-7290.
Co-Host: Curt Gashlin landsharc@aol.com

11/6 - 11/8/2009
Friday – Sunday
Friday @ 4:00 PM
Annual Gathering
Paddling, Hiking, Biking
Silver River State Park
Silver Springs FL

The Wilderness Trekker Annual Gathering Weekend - Please refer to the Annual Gathering web page for the most current (and changing) deteails.

11/13 - 11/15/2009
Fridday – Sunday
Time: contact host
Paddling w/camping
Moderate
Arbuckle Creek

Arbuckle Creek Overnight Trip - We'll stay in the Lake Wales State Forest on Friday night and launch on Saturday morning at the Williams Fish Camp on SR 64. We'll river camp on Arbuckle Creek on Saturday night. Plan on a fun Happy Hour & hors d'ouerves on both Friday and Saturday evenings. Sunday, we'll paddle on down to Niebert's on US 98, take out there, then run the shuttle. We've been doing this moderately difficult trip for years, and it's worth it! If you have questions, or if something is holding you back, contact me, and maybe I can help get you there! Plan on hors d'ouerves and a happy hour for both Friday and Saturday nights - it's more fun that way! (Moderate - long first day)

Event Host: Jim Ostrander,j14152@gmail.com , 561-627-1943. I will be away from home between now and mid-October without regular access to e-mail, so I may not respond for weeks.

11/20/09 – 11/22/09
Friday - Sunday
Paddling w/camping
Econlochatchee River

Econlochatchee River Paddle - we will car-camp on in Lake Mills County Park. On Saturday morning, we will run a short shuttle from 419 to Snowhill Road. We will river camp on Saturday night, paddle a very short distance on Sunday and take-out. Plan to relax on this trip.
Host: Nancy kayakldy@yahoo.com

11/21/09 – 11/22/09
Saturday & Sunday
Time: 9:00AM
Paddling w/camping
Moderate
Santa Fe River
High Springs, FL

Santa Fe River/Camp/Paddle - Come join fellow Trekkers on a 2 day paddle down the Santa Fe River near High Springs, Fl., Gazetteer page 65 or See Map. We will meet at the Santa Fe River Outpost (386) 454-2050 at 9AM sharp. This will be a 20-mile paddle in 2 days, starting at the Outfitter's launch at US 441 just South of the Santa Fe Bridge. We will paddle upstream for 2 to 3 miles seeing part of the river most people miss. After reversing our course back past the Outfitters, we will stop for the night at Lilly Springs to camp. Nature Ed has an agreement with Santa Fe Outfitters for groups to camp overnight. The cost for the Outfitter will be $25.00/boat (insurance has gone up), and $9.00 per person at Lilly Springs. Nature Ed will provide firewood for the campfire.

The group will continue down the river on Sunday morning and take out at the Hwy 47 Bridge. This has been an exciting river paddle and camp in the past. As always stated, this is primitive camping (though Lilly Springs has an outhouse). You will need to provide camping gear, 2 lunches, 1 dinner, and a breakfast. It is exciting to find out that the wonderful "Great Outdoors Rest. & Lounge" is back open at the Opera House in High Spring. I will make reservation for Sunday afternoon when we get back. The food was always great. The Outfitter can provide transportation of some camping equipment to Lilly Springs. Reservations are required. Limited to 16 members and their guest.

Event Host: Lee & Anita Simmons leedeland@yahoo.com (preferred) or 386-846-8396.

11/29/09
Sunday
Time: 1:00PM
Paddling
Leisure
DeLeon Springs
DeLeon Springs State Park, FL

DeLeon Springs Paddle - Meet at 1:00 PM at the spring head area for a 1:30 AM launch. This will be a family friendly paddle. We will paddle a short distance (45-60 minutes) and see several types of turtles, fish, reptiles, birds, manatee, and other wildlife on the way out and back. Bring a snack for a break; sun lotion, and plenty of fluids. Plan to share a pancake brunch at the Old Spanish Sugar Mill Restaurant or bring your own lunch. Bring swim goggles if you'd like to stay and picnic next to the spring/swimming area. State Park entrance fee is $5.00 (2 to 8 people in 1 car). Canoe & kayak rentals available 386.985.5644. See Map for State Park directions or Page 74 in the Florida Atlas and Gazetteer. Members and invited guests only. Limit: 12. Check out further details about the spring, the park and the restaurant at DeLeon Springs S. P.

Host: Bill Maish Email to register at billsplash@bellsouth.net or call 407-375-4406

October 2009 - November 2009
09/25 - 9/27/2009 Friday - Sunday Time: Contact Host Paddle Moderate Loxahatchee River and Jonathan Dickinson S.P. Jupter FL	Loxahatchee River Paddle and Jonnathan Dickinson State Park Camping - We will be day paddling the Wild and Scenic Loxahatchee River on Saturday. We will be car camping in Jonathan Dickinson State Park on Friday and Saturday nights. This river has earned the name "Wild and Scenic" The first 2/3s of the river is narrow, very twisting and beautiful. In fact, it is one of the most beautiful in Florida. We paddle to a historic site that was the property of the legendary Trapper Nelson. We can explore the premesis on our own, and may even get a ranger tour. The last part of the river is wider, and open with mangroves. There are good hiking and biking opportunities for Sunday. Event Host: Nancy Doucette (561)968-1789 kayakldy@yahoo.com
09/27/2009 Sunday 8:30AM meet Paddle Training Kayak Rolling Clinic Location: Contact Host	Kayak Rolling Clinic- For All Skill Levels - If you know Ken Knapton, then you know he is THE best instructor. The session is about three to four - hour long with Ken Knapton, Michael Shugg and Mariam Mohsenin. RSVP is required. For members only. PFD (Type III) and whistle are required on all sessions. We'll start at 9:00, so meet at 8:30 for a 9:00 Start, come early to ready yourself. Event Host: Focus all questions and reservations to Mariam Mohsenin at (407)325-7596, mohseninma@gmail.com
10/2 - 10/4/2009 Friday - Sunday Time: See Details Biking Leisurely Ameilia Island Ft Clinch State Park Fernandina FL	Northeast Florida Bike Rides – Amelia Island & Jacksonville-Baldwin Rails-to-Trails - Fort Clinch State Park is one of Florida’s great parks all unto itself. It is a very large park surrounded on 3 sides by the Amelia River to the west, St Mary’s on the north and the Atlantic Ocean on the east. Cumberland Island appears to be a stone throw across the treacherous St. Mary’s inlet. It has this tremendous 2 mile canopied drive to the fartherest northeast point in Florida where there are 2 campgrounds and the completely intact Fort Clinch historical site. This and the historic town of Fernandina Beach and parts of the north end of Amelia Island will consitiute our Saturday bike ride. Sunday we will break camp and head west of Jacksonville to the Jacksonville-Baldwin Rails-to-Trails path. We will be camping at Little Talbot Islando State Park south of Amelia Island. There are sitll plenty of camp sites available. The idea is to come Friday so that we can depart camp on Saturday morning to begin our cycling. For all the details of this weekend, including the best camp sites, along with some pictures of Talbot Island, Amelia Island, Fort Clinch and Fernandina Beach, click the Amelia Island and Jacksonville-Baldwin link. Helmets required, ear buds prohibited by law. Host: Clark Getz cagola1@aol.com 407 222 2846
10/3/2009 Saturday 9:00 AM Hike Leisurely to Moderate Wekiva Springs State Park Apopka FL	Wekiva Spring Hike and Swim - Meet us at Wekiwa Springs State Park in front of the swimming area. We will carpool to the trailhead and hike for 6 miles in mostly shaded woods. We will end up back at our cars in front of the swimming area and cool off in that 72 degree water. It is the perfect way to end a hike in Florida! Bring a hat and plenty of water. Reservations not required but appreciated. Hosts: Lynn and Kurth 407-331-8609 lynnvh@embarqmail.com
10/8 -10/11/2009 Thursday - Sunday Paddling Leisurely to Moderate Sebastian Inlet Area Vero Beach FL	2009 FL Paddlers’ Rendezvous - Sponsored by the Indian River Paddling Club, this is a state-wide coming together of paddlers/clubs. Check out the Florida Paddlers' Rendezvous http://www.kayaksetc.com/Florida-Paddlers-Rendezvous.html website for more details. Paddling trips will be to Blue Cyprus Lake, St Sebastian River, Pelican Island Wildlife Refuge, Round Island Park, and spoil islands off Sebastian. Base of event and some camping is available at Skydive Sebastian with limited elec sites for RVs only ($15/night) and tent camping in a field ( $5/night); if you camp there mention the Paddlers' Rendezvous when making reservations. Other camping options include nearby Donald MacDonald Park (no elec, no reservations) or Sebastian Inlet State Park (about 35 min away). There are also specials for lodging, from $49 to $99 for motel rooms. Also please check these websites for contact info, schedule and updates. http://paddlersrendezvous.com/information.html http://paddlersrendezvous.com/schedule.html Wilderness Trekker Contacts: Erica Johnson or Linda Leeds lindamarie7@juno.com
10/16 - 10/18/09 Friday - Sunday Time: contact host Paddling w/camping Moderate Fisheating Creek SW Lake Ockeechobee	Fisheating Creek Overnight River Camping Trip - Awesome River Camping on Fisheating Creek, west of Lake Okeechobee. It is one of the most beautiful rivers in the state. I plan to car camp in Palmdale on Thursday night, then put-in on Friday at Ingram's crossing. This is the prettiest part of the river. We will camp Friday night at Sand Lake. Then on Saturday night, we will camp at Lemon Lake. That will leave a shorter day of paddling on Sunday. There will be a fee of nearly $25.00 per boat for the shuttle. If anyone wants to go on Saturday, or just a day trip, we can make arrangements to meet. Host: Nancy Doucette (561)968-1789 kayakldy@yahoo.com
10/18/09 Sunday Time: 9:00 - 4:00 CPR/First Aid American Red Cross 5 North Bumby AVe Orlando	CPR/First Aid Training - Cost is $55.00. Train lay responders to overcome any reluctance to act in emergency situations and to recognize and care for life-threatening respiratory or cardiac emergencies in adults. Provide the lay responder with the knowledge and skills necessary in an emergency to help sustain life and to minimize pain and the consequences of injury or sudden illness until professional medical help arrives. See this link for every detail of the class - CPR. Click here for directions. Also, you can register for the class online. Suggested opportunity brought forth by Mariam Mohsenin
Mid October Weekend overnight Time: contact host Paddling w/camping Moderate Fisheating Creek SW Lake Ockeechobee	Fisheating Creek Overnight River Camping Trip - FFisheating Creek flows into Southwestern Lake Okeechobee. It is one of those rivers that often doesn't have enough water to paddle. It rises and falls quickly. It's a live, healthy river, with lots of wildlife most of the time. So - when there's enough water to do the trip, and time enough to contact everyone beforehand, we'll do it then! We'll stay at Palmdale Campgrounds on Friday evening, and meet by the parking lot/boat ramp in the Palmdale Campgrounds on Saturday at 9 AM. The shuttle ride is $20 per boat (which includes the passenger(s) and the gear that go in it). Happy Hour and hors d'ouerves will be an integral part of the trip, which is really all about having a good time in the great outdoors. If you think you'd like to participate, sign up early, and then, drop off the trip f you can't make it when we have the water to do the trip. (Easy, if the water level is high enough). Host: Jim Ostrander, j14152@gmail.com , 561-627-1943. I will be away from home between now and mid-October without regular access to e-mail, so I may not respond for weeks.
10/25/09 Sunday Time: contact host Paddling Leisurely Mosquito Lagoon Bethune Beach	Mosquito Lagoon from Bethune beach - There is a small county park off Ladyfish Ave. in Bethune beach west of A1A. Ladyfish Ave is approximately one mile north of the Canaveral Natl Seashore entrance. This area is a great place to see Manatee and Dolphin. This is usually a leisurely trip but can get tricky if the winds pick up. We will paddle south towards Turtle mound and explore the area in the Canaveral National seashore. We can also explore the channels at Shipyard Island. This trip will be eight miles or less. Event Host: Bill Smith madriver33@gmail.com or 407-488-7290
10/31/09 – 11/01/09 Saturday – Sunday Time: contact host Paddling w/camping Moderate Peace River Fort Meade to Zolfo Springs, FL	Annual Peace River Halloween Cruise - Fort Meade to Zolfo Springs. Wilderness camping. This is the prettiest part of the Peace, one too far north for the outfitters, so it's less traveled. It's narrower and has more twists and turns than the sections lower down, as well as a "waterfall," and a few mini-rapids. It also has a few rocky areas, so if the water is a bit low, you might get your bottom scratched! Our car-camping site on Friday night is very pretty and quiet, as is our wilderness site the next night. Pumpkin carving contest on Halloween. Sign up early, as space will be limited. (If water levels permit, we'll move upstream and put in at Bartow.) Event Host: Linda Leeds, (561) 683-2851, lindamarie7@juno.com.
10/31/09 – 11/01/09 Friday – Sunday Time: contact host Paddling w/camping Moderate Peace River Zolfo Springs, FL	Traditional Peace River Halloween Trip - Lower Peace River - This is P&P’s annual Halloween overnight camping trip on the Peace River. Plan on a happy hour with plenty of hors d'ouerves for Saturday evening, and pumpkin carving before dark for those who want to participate. If you're not a river camper and you'd like to go, but there's something you are unsure about regarding river camping, or you're missing some gear, maybe we can accommodate you. We’ll stay at Pioneer Park on Friday night, or if you don’t want to camp Friday night, meet us at the Pioneer Park boat ramp on Saturday for an 8 AM launch. Takeout and shuttle is on Sunday around noontime. If you need more information, feel free to call me. Host: Jim Ostrander,j14152@gmail.com , 561-627-1943. I will be away from home between now and mid-October without regular access to e-mail, and may not respond promptly. No limit! All are welcome!
11/01/09 Sunday Time: 8:30 Paddling Moderate-Strenuous Banana River Cocoa Beach, FL	Paddling the 1000 Islands at Cocoa Beach, Banana River- We will meet at Beach Park and Ramp off S.R. 520 causeway. It is on the south side after you pass Merritt Island (See Map). If you pass the Cape Canaveral Hospital when traveling west, then you went too far. The park does not have toilet facilities but there are convenience stores and gas stations nearby. This is a 9-10 mile paddle through the channels of the mangroves. 1000 Islands is a unique area which is mostly comprised of mangrove tunnels and mangrove islands. How many islands there really are is anybody's guess. Manatee and dolphin are usually present on the paddle over. This area was recently bought up so that it can be protected from further development. It's really nice to see areas like this preserved. It is recommended that short recreation crafts NOT be used since the smaller boats could get blown around when crossing to the mangroves. ACA and coast guard rules apply. PFD's and whistles required, PFD's must be worn! Host: Bill Smith madriver33@gmail.com 407-488-7290. Co-Host: Curt Gashlin landsharc@aol.com
11/6 - 11/8/2009 Friday – Sunday Friday @ 4:00 PM Annual Gathering Paddling, Hiking, Biking Silver River State Park Silver Springs FL	The Wilderness Trekker Annual Gathering Weekend - Please refer to the Annual Gathering web page for the most current (and changing) deteails.
11/13 - 11/15/2009 Fridday – Sunday Time: contact host Paddling w/camping Moderate Arbuckle Creek	Arbuckle Creek Overnight Trip - We'll stay in the Lake Wales State Forest on Friday night and launch on Saturday morning at the Williams Fish Camp on SR 64. We'll river camp on Arbuckle Creek on Saturday night. Plan on a fun Happy Hour & hors d'ouerves on both Friday and Saturday evenings. Sunday, we'll paddle on down to Niebert's on US 98, take out there, then run the shuttle. We've been doing this moderately difficult trip for years, and it's worth it! If you have questions, or if something is holding you back, contact me, and maybe I can help get you there! Plan on hors d'ouerves and a happy hour for both Friday and Saturday nights - it's more fun that way! (Moderate - long first day) Event Host: Jim Ostrander,j14152@gmail.com , 561-627-1943. I will be away from home between now and mid-October without regular access to e-mail, so I may not respond for weeks.
11/20/09 – 11/22/09 Friday - Sunday Paddling w/camping Econlochatchee River	Econlochatchee River Paddle - we will car-camp on in Lake Mills County Park. On Saturday morning, we will run a short shuttle from 419 to Snowhill Road. We will river camp on Saturday night, paddle a very short distance on Sunday and take-out. Plan to relax on this trip. Host: Nancy kayakldy@yahoo.com
11/21/09 – 11/22/09 Saturday & Sunday Time: 9:00AM Paddling w/camping Moderate Santa Fe River High Springs, FL	Santa Fe River/Camp/Paddle - Come join fellow Trekkers on a 2 day paddle down the Santa Fe River near High Springs, Fl., Gazetteer page 65 or See Map. We will meet at the Santa Fe River Outpost (386) 454-2050 at 9AM sharp. This will be a 20-mile paddle in 2 days, starting at the Outfitter's launch at US 441 just South of the Santa Fe Bridge. We will paddle upstream for 2 to 3 miles seeing part of the river most people miss. After reversing our course back past the Outfitters, we will stop for the night at Lilly Springs to camp. Nature Ed has an agreement with Santa Fe Outfitters for groups to camp overnight. The cost for the Outfitter will be $25.00/boat (insurance has gone up), and $9.00 per person at Lilly Springs. Nature Ed will provide firewood for the campfire. The group will continue down the river on Sunday morning and take out at the Hwy 47 Bridge. This has been an exciting river paddle and camp in the past. As always stated, this is primitive camping (though Lilly Springs has an outhouse). You will need to provide camping gear, 2 lunches, 1 dinner, and a breakfast. It is exciting to find out that the wonderful "Great Outdoors Rest. & Lounge" is back open at the Opera House in High Spring. I will make reservation for Sunday afternoon when we get back. The food was always great. The Outfitter can provide transportation of some camping equipment to Lilly Springs. Reservations are required. Limited to 16 members and their guest. Event Host: Lee & Anita Simmons leedeland@yahoo.com (preferred) or 386-846-8396.
11/29/09 Sunday Time: 1:00PM Paddling Leisure DeLeon Springs DeLeon Springs State Park, FL	DeLeon Springs Paddle - Meet at 1:00 PM at the spring head area for a 1:30 AM launch. This will be a family friendly paddle. We will paddle a short distance (45-60 minutes) and see several types of turtles, fish, reptiles, birds, manatee, and other wildlife on the way out and back. Bring a snack for a break; sun lotion, and plenty of fluids. Plan to share a pancake brunch at the Old Spanish Sugar Mill Restaurant or bring your own lunch. Bring swim goggles if you'd like to stay and picnic next to the spring/swimming area. State Park entrance fee is $5.00 (2 to 8 people in 1 car). Canoe & kayak rentals available 386.985.5644. See Map for State Park directions or Page 74 in the Florida Atlas and Gazetteer. Members and invited guests only. Limit: 12. Check out further details about the spring, the park and the restaurant at DeLeon Springs S. P. Host: Bill Maish Email to register at billsplash@bellsouth.net or call 407-375-4406

October 2009 - November 2009