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

6/5/10
Saturday
Time: 8:30
Paddling
Moderate
Makinson Island
Lake Tohopekaliga
Kissimmee FL

Paddle from Shingle Creek to Makison Island - Shingle Creek Makinson Island paddle. 6 mile round trip. Some open water,could be difficult for canoes if the wind comes up. Meet at 830 and launch by 9. Put in at the se corner of bridge over Shingle Creek on Pleasant Hill Rd 1/2 mile north of 17-92 in Kissimmee. See Map. We will paddle 1.5 miles down the creek to the mouth on west lake toho, then 1.5 miles along west side of lake and cross over to Makinson Island. There is a 2 mile hiking trail around the perimeter of the island. There are chemical restrooms. picnic tables and campsites. Be ready for a nice long lunch and exploratory hike.This island was the stronghold of Chiefs Osceola, Micanopy and Wildcat during the 1830's Seminole Indian wars. One owner had exotic animals running loose, now there are Patagonian cavies and a herd of European sheep still out there and are seen at rare times. we will be checking the place out to for some over night trips. And the county plans for this island to be part of the Osceola Blue ways paddle trail from shingle creek to lake Okeechobee.

Open Waters - PFD & whistle required, spray skirt recommended.

Host: RSVP Rich Miller 407-709-7129

6/12/10
Saturday
Time: 8:30
Paddling
Easy-to-Moderate
Rainbow Springs
KP Hole Park
Dunnellon FL

Rainbow Springs Wild and Wet Paddle- Plan on a fun day of rescue practice, games and challenges as we dodge tubers and make our way along this cool clear spring. Plenty of swimming in the clearest waters in Florida. We'll meet at KP Hole County Park in Dunnellon, by 8:30 AM for a 9:30 launch since there will be a shuttle to the SR 484 take-out. Directions. $3.00 park entry fee, and carry a dollar bill on you for the paddle up to the springhead where the State charges $1.00 boat parking fee if we take time to visit the State Park.

Disposable food and drink containers are prohibited on the run and is strictly enforced as there are a couple of attendants at the boat ramp. Put packaged food in tupperware and liquid in bicycle type bottles or thermos bottles. Example: Granola bar in wrapper is taboo - put bar in tupperware.

PFDs are required and must be worn.

Host: Michael Shugg - RSVP, 407-797-2591 mshugg@comcast.net .

6/13/10
Sunday
Time: 9:00AM
Kayak Skills Session
Part 1
Lake Mills Park
Chuluota FL

Kayak Skill Session- Session 1 of 2. Each session is 4-hours long with Ken Knapton, Michael Shugg and Mariam Mohsenin. RSVP is required. Class is limited to 8 people. This is a great class for new paddlers or those who want to add to their repertoir. Essentials of Kayak Touring is an eight-hour course to be held in two sessions, with a focus on helping the student learn to travel safely and efficiently by kayak of the types designated as sit on top, folding, inflatable, recreational, sea kayak. There is more emphasis on practicing a simple rescue sequence, understanding the very basics of tides and currents, use of a compass (safety bearing), rules for paddling in channels with and without boat traffic, use of VHF radio and weather radio and other emergency equipment.

For members only. The session will be at Lake Mills Park located in west Seminole County, See Map. If for some reason, Lake Mills is not open/feasible, the alternate venue will be announced to responders. PFD and whistle are required on all sessions. Give yourself ample time to arrive, unload your boat, and get ready. Out of courtesy to the participants, please be ready to paddle at 9:00 am.

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

Paddle the Ocklawaha River - Paddle the Ocklawaha River and see Florida how it used to be. This trip is 8 miles long but going with the current the whole way so it should only take a few hours. We will meet at the Ocklawaha Canoe Outpost (for directions click here). Then we’ll shuttle to Gores Landing and paddle back to the O.C. Outpost. There is a fee for the shuttle, so bring $15. It probably won’t cost that much. The more people we have the less it costs! Also be prepared to grab a bite afterwards. Location TBA.

PFD and whistle are required by law. Please be on time to shuttle by 9AM.

Host: Carol Noll 352-817-5257 or e-mail: horsfeathers.noll@gmail.com

6/26/10
Saturday
Time: 8:30 c
Paddling
Easy-to-Goofy
Juniper Springs
Ocala National Forest

Juniper Run is a winding challenge - Come join in the fun on Florida's tight and tiny creek through the sand hills of the Ocala National Forest. The early arrival is to beat the Saturday crowd. See Map. There is a $5.50 park entry fee and a $6.00 launch fee; plus we have to hoof our crafts down to the launch from the canoe unloading area as the park has dispensed with the wheeled carts. Retails are available for newer members, see Juniper Spring Recreational Area for details. You need to protect yourself from the sun and bring plenty of hydration and snacks. Disposable food and drink containers are prohibited on the run. All liquids and food stuff must be packed in re-usable household containers as they will not allow plastics and wrappers. Example: Zephryhills water bottle, no, cycling water bottle or Camelback, ok. Gorp in a ziplock, no, Gorp in a tupperware, yes.

PFDs and whistle required by law

Host: Clark Getz RSVP 407 855 5351 or cagola1@aol.com

6/27/10
Sunday
Time: 8:00AM
Paddling
Moderate-to-Strenuous
Alexander Springs
Ocala National Forest

Alexander Springs Creek Exploratory Paddle - We will meet at 8:00 O’Clock at the 445 bridge over Alexander Springs ( Florida Gazetteer, page 73, D-3 ) DO NOT UNLOAD your boat. We will then drive to the launch location. We will paddle to St. Johns River, explore the area, and return. Consider it an all day paddle, given it is exploratory in nature, it is not suitable for beginner paddlers.

No drugs or alcohol, must wear PFD while on water, whistle is required on the paddle.

RSVP Required. Your Hosts: Mariam Mohsenin and Ken Knapton. Focus your RSVP to mohseninma@gmail.com

6/27/10
Sunday
Time: Call Host
Bike-n-Snorkel
Easy to Moderate
Palm Beach Inlet

Palm Beach Inlet Bike & Snorkel - This is the best off-the-beach snorkeling in the area, attracting all kinds of wondrous creatures to the rocks on the outside of the south jetty, but we have to wait for the water to warm up for them to come. The bike trail along the Intracoastal and the road along the ocean are lovely and safe to pedal. And then there’s lunch! We'll go on high tide. Please call host for details such as exact directions, times and specifics she would like to review with you on the phone.

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

7/3/10
Saturday
Time: 9:00AM c
Paddling
Moderate
Econlockhatchee River
Oveido FL

Econ Paddle - We will be paddling the upper or middle Econ, depending on water levels and pull overs. Either section is a great view of disappearing Florida wilderness and will be shady and beautiful. Reservations required. Members have preference. 15 boat limit.

Host: RSVP Shelley Claudin, shelley.claudin@cubic.com, 407 758 2633 for full information.

7/11/10
Sunday
Time: Call Host
Bike-n-Snorkel
Easy to Moderate
Palm Beach Inlet

7/11/10
Sunday
Time: 8:30
Paddling
Leisure to Strenuous
Wekiva River and Rock Springs Run
Longwood FL

Wekiva River and Rock Springs Run - We will launch from Wekiva Marina 1014 Miami Springs Dr., Longwood, FL. See Map. Please be early as early as you need to be to launch at 9:00. We 'll be in 2 groups: Group 1 Trip is a leisurely 5 mile paddle to part of Rock Spring Run and back to Wekiva State Park for swimming, snorkeling, relaxing in the sun, having lunch ( bring lunch), bring rope to tie your kayak. Group 2 Trip will paddle up Rock Springs Run for an 18 mile paddle and will return to join group 1 at the State Park. Launch fee $6 at Wekiva Island and $2 to enter State Park (collection box) (if you choose to do so) plus ice cream or anything else you need to buy at the State Park. Bring cash. Give yourself ample time to arrive and get ready. Out of courtesy to the participants, please be ready to paddle at 9:00 am.

No drugs or alcohol, must wear PFD while on water, whistle is required on the paddle.

RSVP Required. Your Hosts: Mariam Mohsenin and Ken Knapton. Focus your RSVP to mohseninma@gmail.com

7/18/10
Sunday
Time: 9:00AM
Kayak Skills Session
Part 2

Kayak Skill Session - Session 2 of 2. Each session is 4-hours long with Ken Knapton, Michael Shugg and Mariam Mohsenin. RSVP is required. Class is limited to 8 people. This is a great class for new paddlers or those who want to add to their repertoir. Essentials of Kayak Touring is an eight-hour course to be held in two sessions, focused on helping the student learn to travel safely and efficiently by kayak of the types designated as sit on top, folding, inflatable, recreational, sea kayak. There is more emphasis on practicing a simple rescue sequence, understanding the very basics of tides and currents, use of a compass (safety bearing), rules for paddling in channels with and without boat traffic, use of VHF radio and weather radio and other emergency equipment.

PFD and whistle are required on all sessions. Give yourself ample time to arrive, unload your boat, and get ready. Out of courtesy to the participants, please be ready to paddle at 9:00 am.

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

7/18 - 7/23/10
Sunday - Friday
Lake Paddle, Hiking, Biking
Easy-to-Strenuous
Turkey Creek Campground
Bryson City NC

North Carolina Mountains with Florida Sport Paddlers-

A week in cool NC Mountains. Base camp at Turkey Creek Campground (828-488-8966; http://www.turkey-creek.com/ ) Monday through Friday canoe/kayak trips on TVA lakes (kayaks suggested). Also available in the area: mountain hikes, mountain bike trails, driving tours, etc. NO WHITEWATER on our trips. Please contact Erica Johnson by July 7 at 407-327-4044, paddlepuff@earthlink.net

7/21 - 7/26/10
Wednesday - Monday
Rafting, Hiking, Biking
Easy-to-Strenuous
Big Nantahala Campground
Bryson City NC

Wilderness-Trekkers Adventuring in the North Carolina Mountains -

Six-day - OUT OF FLORIDA - event – Wednesday thru Monday, where Wednesday and Monday are basically travel days, or if you need to get back by Monday, you can cut a day off of your trip.

We have 8 events planned: 4 hike trips, 3 on-the-water events and a Mountain Bike event in Tsali - the Moab of the East Coast! We will be staying at Big Nantahala Campground on the Nantahala River which is about 30 minutes from Bryson City. For all the incredible details Click Here and begin your drooling. PDF last updated June 6th.

PLEASE NOTE! This 8 event adventure is still solidifying and changes to the linked write-up will occur over time, either at the event level or details based on questions I recieve. The point being, you need to visit the link to see if there are updates or changes. After version 2, text changes will be indicated in red so you don't have to read the entire document. If you print the write-up make sure you print the last version of it before coming aboard to prevent any misunderstandings.

Hosts: Rich Miller sailstcloud@gmail.com and Clark Getz cagola1@aol.com 407 222 2846

RSVP - Yep, it'll be great!

7/25/10
Sunday
Time: Call Host
Bike-n-Snorkel
Easy to Moderate
Palm Beach Inlet

June 2010 - July 2010
6/5/10 Saturday Time: 8:30 Paddling Moderate Makinson Island Lake Tohopekaliga Kissimmee FL	Paddle from Shingle Creek to Makison Island - Shingle Creek Makinson Island paddle. 6 mile round trip. Some open water,could be difficult for canoes if the wind comes up. Meet at 830 and launch by 9. Put in at the se corner of bridge over Shingle Creek on Pleasant Hill Rd 1/2 mile north of 17-92 in Kissimmee. See Map. We will paddle 1.5 miles down the creek to the mouth on west lake toho, then 1.5 miles along west side of lake and cross over to Makinson Island. There is a 2 mile hiking trail around the perimeter of the island. There are chemical restrooms. picnic tables and campsites. Be ready for a nice long lunch and exploratory hike.This island was the stronghold of Chiefs Osceola, Micanopy and Wildcat during the 1830's Seminole Indian wars. One owner had exotic animals running loose, now there are Patagonian cavies and a herd of European sheep still out there and are seen at rare times. we will be checking the place out to for some over night trips. And the county plans for this island to be part of the Osceola Blue ways paddle trail from shingle creek to lake Okeechobee. Open Waters - PFD & whistle required, spray skirt recommended. Host: RSVP Rich Miller 407-709-7129
6/12/10 Saturday Time: 8:30 Paddling Easy-to-Moderate Rainbow Springs KP Hole Park Dunnellon FL	Rainbow Springs Wild and Wet Paddle- Plan on a fun day of rescue practice, games and challenges as we dodge tubers and make our way along this cool clear spring. Plenty of swimming in the clearest waters in Florida. We'll meet at KP Hole County Park in Dunnellon, by 8:30 AM for a 9:30 launch since there will be a shuttle to the SR 484 take-out. Directions. $3.00 park entry fee, and carry a dollar bill on you for the paddle up to the springhead where the State charges $1.00 boat parking fee if we take time to visit the State Park. Disposable food and drink containers are prohibited on the run and is strictly enforced as there are a couple of attendants at the boat ramp. Put packaged food in tupperware and liquid in bicycle type bottles or thermos bottles. Example: Granola bar in wrapper is taboo - put bar in tupperware. PFDs are required and must be worn. Host: Michael Shugg - RSVP, 407-797-2591 mshugg@comcast.net .
6/13/10 Sunday Time: 9:00AM Kayak Skills Session Part 1 Lake Mills Park Chuluota FL	Kayak Skill Session- Session 1 of 2. Each session is 4-hours long with Ken Knapton, Michael Shugg and Mariam Mohsenin. RSVP is required. Class is limited to 8 people. This is a great class for new paddlers or those who want to add to their repertoir. Essentials of Kayak Touring is an eight-hour course to be held in two sessions, with a focus on helping the student learn to travel safely and efficiently by kayak of the types designated as sit on top, folding, inflatable, recreational, sea kayak. There is more emphasis on practicing a simple rescue sequence, understanding the very basics of tides and currents, use of a compass (safety bearing), rules for paddling in channels with and without boat traffic, use of VHF radio and weather radio and other emergency equipment. For members only. The session will be at Lake Mills Park located in west Seminole County, See Map. If for some reason, Lake Mills is not open/feasible, the alternate venue will be announced to responders. PFD and whistle are required on all sessions. Give yourself ample time to arrive, unload your boat, and get ready. Out of courtesy to the participants, please be ready to paddle at 9:00 am. Host: Focus all reservations to Mariam Mohsenin at (407)325-7596, mohseninma@gmail.com
CANCELED 6/19/10 Saturday Paddling Easy/Moderate Ocklawaha River Gores Landing Ft McCoy, FL	Paddle the Ocklawaha River - Paddle the Ocklawaha River and see Florida how it used to be. This trip is 8 miles long but going with the current the whole way so it should only take a few hours. We will meet at the Ocklawaha Canoe Outpost (for directions click here). Then we’ll shuttle to Gores Landing and paddle back to the O.C. Outpost. There is a fee for the shuttle, so bring $15. It probably won’t cost that much. The more people we have the less it costs! Also be prepared to grab a bite afterwards. Location TBA. PFD and whistle are required by law. Please be on time to shuttle by 9AM. Host: Carol Noll 352-817-5257 or e-mail: horsfeathers.noll@gmail.com
6/26/10 Saturday Time: 8:30 c Paddling Easy-to-Goofy Juniper Springs Ocala National Forest	Juniper Run is a winding challenge - Come join in the fun on Florida's tight and tiny creek through the sand hills of the Ocala National Forest. The early arrival is to beat the Saturday crowd. See Map. There is a $5.50 park entry fee and a $6.00 launch fee; plus we have to hoof our crafts down to the launch from the canoe unloading area as the park has dispensed with the wheeled carts. Retails are available for newer members, see Juniper Spring Recreational Area for details. You need to protect yourself from the sun and bring plenty of hydration and snacks. Disposable food and drink containers are prohibited on the run. All liquids and food stuff must be packed in re-usable household containers as they will not allow plastics and wrappers. Example: Zephryhills water bottle, no, cycling water bottle or Camelback, ok. Gorp in a ziplock, no, Gorp in a tupperware, yes. PFDs and whistle required by law Host: Clark Getz RSVP 407 855 5351 or cagola1@aol.com
6/27/10 Sunday Time: 8:00AM Paddling Moderate-to-Strenuous Alexander Springs Ocala National Forest	Alexander Springs Creek Exploratory Paddle - We will meet at 8:00 O’Clock at the 445 bridge over Alexander Springs ( Florida Gazetteer, page 73, D-3 ) DO NOT UNLOAD your boat. We will then drive to the launch location. We will paddle to St. Johns River, explore the area, and return. Consider it an all day paddle, given it is exploratory in nature, it is not suitable for beginner paddlers. No drugs or alcohol, must wear PFD while on water, whistle is required on the paddle. RSVP Required. Your Hosts: Mariam Mohsenin and Ken Knapton. Focus your RSVP to mohseninma@gmail.com
6/27/10 Sunday Time: Call Host Bike-n-Snorkel Easy to Moderate Palm Beach Inlet	Palm Beach Inlet Bike & Snorkel - This is the best off-the-beach snorkeling in the area, attracting all kinds of wondrous creatures to the rocks on the outside of the south jetty, but we have to wait for the water to warm up for them to come. The bike trail along the Intracoastal and the road along the ocean are lovely and safe to pedal. And then there’s lunch! We'll go on high tide. Please call host for details such as exact directions, times and specifics she would like to review with you on the phone. Host: Linda Leeds, 561-683-2851, lindamarie7@ juno.com.
7/3/10 Saturday Time: 9:00AM c Paddling Moderate Econlockhatchee River Oveido FL	Econ Paddle - We will be paddling the upper or middle Econ, depending on water levels and pull overs. Either section is a great view of disappearing Florida wilderness and will be shady and beautiful. Reservations required. Members have preference. 15 boat limit. Host: RSVP Shelley Claudin, shelley.claudin@cubic.com, 407 758 2633 for full information.
7/11/10 Sunday Time: Call Host Bike-n-Snorkel Easy to Moderate Palm Beach Inlet	Palm Beach Inlet Bike & Snorkel - This is the best off-the-beach snorkeling in the area, attracting all kinds of wondrous creatures to the rocks on the outside of the south jetty, but we have to wait for the water to warm up for them to come. The bike trail along the Intracoastal and the road along the ocean are lovely and safe to pedal. And then there’s lunch! We'll go on high tide. Please call host for details such as exact directions, times and specifics she would like to review with you on the phone. Host: Linda Leeds, 561-683-2851, lindamarie7@ juno.com.
7/11/10 Sunday Time: 8:30 Paddling Leisure to Strenuous Wekiva River and Rock Springs Run Longwood FL	Wekiva River and Rock Springs Run - We will launch from Wekiva Marina 1014 Miami Springs Dr., Longwood, FL. See Map. Please be early as early as you need to be to launch at 9:00. We 'll be in 2 groups: Group 1 Trip is a leisurely 5 mile paddle to part of Rock Spring Run and back to Wekiva State Park for swimming, snorkeling, relaxing in the sun, having lunch ( bring lunch), bring rope to tie your kayak. Group 2 Trip will paddle up Rock Springs Run for an 18 mile paddle and will return to join group 1 at the State Park. Launch fee $6 at Wekiva Island and $2 to enter State Park (collection box) (if you choose to do so) plus ice cream or anything else you need to buy at the State Park. Bring cash. Give yourself ample time to arrive and get ready. Out of courtesy to the participants, please be ready to paddle at 9:00 am. No drugs or alcohol, must wear PFD while on water, whistle is required on the paddle. RSVP Required. Your Hosts: Mariam Mohsenin and Ken Knapton. Focus your RSVP to mohseninma@gmail.com
7/18/10 Sunday Time: 9:00AM Kayak Skills Session Part 2 Wekiva River Longwood FL	Kayak Skill Session - Session 2 of 2. Each session is 4-hours long with Ken Knapton, Michael Shugg and Mariam Mohsenin. RSVP is required. Class is limited to 8 people. This is a great class for new paddlers or those who want to add to their repertoir. Essentials of Kayak Touring is an eight-hour course to be held in two sessions, focused on helping the student learn to travel safely and efficiently by kayak of the types designated as sit on top, folding, inflatable, recreational, sea kayak. There is more emphasis on practicing a simple rescue sequence, understanding the very basics of tides and currents, use of a compass (safety bearing), rules for paddling in channels with and without boat traffic, use of VHF radio and weather radio and other emergency equipment. For members only. The session will be at Wekiva River. We will launch from Weviva Island (old Wekiva Marina), ( $6 launch fee) which is located at 1014 Miami Springs Drive, Longwood, FL‎ - (407) 862-1500‎ in Seminole County PFD and whistle are required on all sessions. Give yourself ample time to arrive, unload your boat, and get ready. Out of courtesy to the participants, please be ready to paddle at 9:00 am. Host: Focus all reservations to Mariam Mohsenin at (407)325-7596, mohseninma@gmail.com
7/18 - 7/23/10 Sunday - Friday Lake Paddle, Hiking, Biking Easy-to-Strenuous Turkey Creek Campground Bryson City NC	North Carolina Mountains with Florida Sport Paddlers- A week in cool NC Mountains. Base camp at Turkey Creek Campground (828-488-8966; http://www.turkey-creek.com/ ) Monday through Friday canoe/kayak trips on TVA lakes (kayaks suggested). Also available in the area: mountain hikes, mountain bike trails, driving tours, etc. NO WHITEWATER on our trips. Please contact Erica Johnson by July 7 at 407-327-4044, paddlepuff@earthlink.net
7/21 - 7/26/10 Wednesday - Monday Rafting, Hiking, Biking Easy-to-Strenuous Big Nantahala Campground Bryson City NC	Wilderness-Trekkers Adventuring in the North Carolina Mountains - Six-day - OUT OF FLORIDA - event – Wednesday thru Monday, where Wednesday and Monday are basically travel days, or if you need to get back by Monday, you can cut a day off of your trip. We have 8 events planned: 4 hike trips, 3 on-the-water events and a Mountain Bike event in Tsali - the Moab of the East Coast! We will be staying at Big Nantahala Campground on the Nantahala River which is about 30 minutes from Bryson City. For all the incredible details Click Here and begin your drooling. PDF last updated June 6th. PLEASE NOTE! This 8 event adventure is still solidifying and changes to the linked write-up will occur over time, either at the event level or details based on questions I recieve. The point being, you need to visit the link to see if there are updates or changes. After version 2, text changes will be indicated in red so you don't have to read the entire document. If you print the write-up make sure you print the last version of it before coming aboard to prevent any misunderstandings. Hosts: Rich Miller sailstcloud@gmail.com and Clark Getz cagola1@aol.com 407 222 2846 RSVP - Yep, it'll be great!
7/25/10 Sunday Time: Call Host Bike-n-Snorkel Easy to Moderate Palm Beach Inlet	Palm Beach Inlet Bike & Snorkel - This is the best off-the-beach snorkeling in the area, attracting all kinds of wondrous creatures to the rocks on the outside of the south jetty, but we have to wait for the water to warm up for them to come. The bike trail along the Intracoastal and the road along the ocean are lovely and safe to pedal. And then there’s lunch! We'll go on high tide. Please call host for details such as exact directions, times and specifics she would like to review with you on the phone. Host: Linda Leeds, 561-683-2851, lindamarie7@ juno.com.

June 2010 - July 2010