Wilderness Trekkers Home

Wilderness Trekker Current Calendar of Events

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Being Prepared
NOTE: guests, first time participants and regular members
The Wilderness Trekker organization reminds all individuals participating in an outing to have the full understanding of the details spelled out in both the "Membership Guidelines" found on the "Join Us" page as well as utilizing the appropriate "Gear List" pages of this site. Moreover, ensure your equipment is in full and safe working condition prior to the morning of the event. Both pages cover your responsibilities as a prepared participant.
Calendar Corrections Since Jan 18th Publish date
March 12th North Marion Bike Ride moved out one week.
Wilderness Trekkers, Orlando Paddling, kayaking, hiking, cycling
02/03/10
Wednesday
Time: 8 AM
Hiking
Leisure
Mystery Hike
South Orlando
Mystery Hike - in South Orlando.   Short hike, 2-3 miles.  If interested, after the hike join Erica to attend some of a public meeting held by FL Fish & Wildlife about issues of concern to non-motorized boaters. The meeting will be held at Bass Pro Shop on Int’l Dr, Orlando from 10 am to 3:30 pm.  Contact Erica for hike information/details.

Host – Erica Johnson, paddlepuff@earthlink.net
Wilderness Trekkers, Orlando Paddling, kayaking, hiking, cycling
02/06/10 - 02/07/10
Saturday - Sunday
Time: call host
Backpacking
Leisure
Wekiva Springs State Park
Backpacking Wekiva Springs State Park - We will go backpacking at Wekiva Springs State Park.

Additional Park Information: Wekiva Springs State Park
1800 Wekiwa Circle Apopka, Florida 32712

Host – Nancy Doucette, kayakldy@yahoo.com
Wilderness Trekkers, Orlando Paddling, kayaking, hiking, cycling
CANCELED
2/7/10
Sunday
Time: 9:00
Kayak Skills Session
Mosquito Lagoon
Edgewater FL
Kayak Skill Session- For All Skill Levels - Learn about kayak navigation, chart reading and find your way to new places. To get the most from this session, we suggest you bring the following: Top Spot Chart of Mosquito Lagoon Area ( Map no. N219) [available at West Marine or online] Compass. If you use a GPS when you kayak, bring it.

This will be an all day session about 1/3 classroom and the rest on the water with Ken Knapton, Michael Shugg and Mariam Mohsenin. For members only. RSVP is required. We will paddle Mosquito Lagoon to find island campsites in the Canaveral National Seashore. 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 at 9:00 am.

Focus all reservations to Mariam Mohsenin at (407)325-7596, mohseninma@gmail.com.
Wilderness Trekkers, Orlando Paddling, kayaking, hiking, cycling
2/12/10 – 2/15/10
Friday – Monday
Time: contact host
Paddling w/camping
Easy-to-Moderate
Potts Preserve
Inverness FL
Potts Preserve/Seven Springs Run - This is a three day primitive car camping trip to Potts Preserve, which is a Southwest Florida Water Management property on the Withlacoochee River, northeast of Inverness, Florida, with only a port-a-potty for facilities. Saturday AM, we'll day-paddle Gum Slough/Seven Springs Run, which I think is one of the prettiest paddles in Florida. It's a live, development-free, little-traveled swamp river/spring run, often with lots of wildlife. Sunday, we'll drive over to the Rainbow River, and paddle upstream from the put-in at the county park on river left. Saturday evening, it's Happy Hour, hors d'ouerves, and dinner at the campsite, followed, of course, by a campfire. Dinner in Inverness on Sunday evening is optional. Monday AM is unstructured, and after lunch, I'm going home! You will probably need detailed directions to find it, even if you've been there before, so don't leave home without them! (Easy car camping, Moderate Saturday paddle).

Gum Slough/Seven Springs Run is a 6-7 hour up and back day trip.

Host: Jim Ostrander, j14152@gmail.com , or 561-627-1943. Easy car camping, no facilities.
Wilderness Trekkers, Orlando Paddling, kayaking, hiking, cycling
02/19/10 - 02/21/10
Friday - Sunday
Paddling
Moderate
O'Leno State Park
High Springs
Santa Fe & Ichetucknee Rivers, and O’Leno State Park - (Rescheduled from 1/8-1/10 due to Arctic weather.) Spend the day or the weekend paddling spring-fed rivers near High Springs. Bring your woolies, as it could be cold. Friday afternoon TBA (short paddle or a hike). Paddle Saturday on the Santa Fe where we’ll see some pretty springs and probably scrape our boats a little on some easy shoals. On Sunday we paddle upstream 3 1/2 miles against a good current on the clear waters of the Ichetucknee and then back down.

Camping at O'Leno State Park (see map), Erica will be in Magnolia Loop. There are several miles of hiking trails at O’Leno and the Santa Fe River “sinks” into the ground here, to come up again a few miles away. Outside the park there’s also a paved bike trail that follows the road.

Make your camping reservations soon via Reserve America as these sites will evaporate quickly if you wait until February.

In addition, during this time at O'Leno State Park this is Family fun for all ages! Dance contra, circles and squares to live music hosted by the Flying Turtles String Band.These are the dances that were the rage in the mid 1800's when the town of Leno thrived! First time dancers are welcome, a caller will walk you through each of the dances. The dance will be held in the 1930's Recreation Hall located on the banks of the Santa Fe River in O'Leno State Park. Fees: Regular park admission plus $5.00 per adult, $3.00 per student and children under 18 years of age. Contact: For more ranger information, call 386-454-1853.

Members and invited guests only - please contact Erica, paddlepuff@earthlink.net or 407-327-4044.
Wilderness Trekkers, Orlando Paddling, kayaking, hiking, cycling
2/26/10 - 1/28/10
Friday - Sunday
Time: Call Host
Paddling
Moderate
Little Munyon Is
West Palm Beach
Little Munyon Island Pig Roast 2 in 1 Trip - Little Munyon Island is a small Intracoastal spoil island surrounded by sand beaches, in the north end of Lake Worth, a few miles north of the Palm Beach Inlet. The moon will be full this weekend, and high tide is at 8:30 PM on Saturday night. - - - - - For campers, it's a primitive camping trip on the beach, from Friday PM through Sunday. For those who don't camp, the trip will be a short evening paddle to Little Munyon Island on Saturday, February 27, for happy hour, snacks, and dinner. It's really two trips in one, so take your pick!

I will roast a pig for Saturday's dinner, contingent upon a decent weather forecast and enough RSVP's to justify the cost and time involved with the cooking operation. - - - - - It takes several days to set this up, so please, make this easy for me, and RSVP ASAP. Cutoff deadline is noon on Tuesday, February 23. I will make the final decision about what the plans will be at that time. Then, I'll send out an e-mail with the detailed information you will need to participate. - - - - - If camping participation is decent but overall participation is low, we'll camp for the weekend, but maybe I'll cook ribs or steaks for Saturday evening's dinner instead. If campers are few, the camping and pig roast will likely be canceled, and the trip will then revert to the Munyon Island day paddle, followed by happy hour and snacks, dinner, and a campfire. - - - - - These plans are variable, so it's up to YOU what we will do!

Jim Ostrander, j14152@gmail.com , 561-627-1943
Wilderness Trekkers, Orlando Paddling, kayaking, hiking, cycling
2/27/10
Saturday
Time: 9:30
Biking
Easy to Moderate
Santos Trail
Ocala, FL
Off road biking at Santos - Come ride through the infamous Cross Florida Greenway Santos Trail System. The Marjorie Harris Car Cross Florida Greenway contains more than 115 miles of trails for all levels of mountain bike riders. The Cross Florida Greenway is a unique conservation and recreation project where a large variety of habitats and ecosystems thrive. It encompasses four counties (Citrus, Levy, Marion and Putnam) stretching the entire width of Florida from the Gulf coast to the St. John’s River. We’ll be starting at the Santos Trailhead http://omba.org/index.php/Trailhead-Locations.html with the Land Bridge as our goal. We’ll be starting out on the yellow trail (being the easiest) and make a few stops along the way to catch our breath and take in the unique, ever changing scenery. There is a full facility trailhead near the Land Bridge where we’ll take a break to eat, refill water bottles and rest a little before heading back. This is an ALL DAY ride. Bring plenty of hydration, lunch/snack and a spare tube for your bike. Helmets are a must. For those who might be interested there is a decent campground there. Check out the OMBA website for more info: http://omba.org/

Contact Carol: horsfeathers.noll@gmail.com (352-817-5257).
Wilderness Trekkers, Orlando Paddling, kayaking, hiking, cycling
2/27/10 – 2/28/10
Saturday – Sunday
Time: contact host
Paddling w/camping
Moderate
Peace River
Fort Meade to
Zolfo Springs, FL
Peace River Spring Cruise - Fort Meade to Zolfo Springs. The foliage should be in its spring glory and the critters thinking about breeding season. That means a good bit of gator activity. 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. Sign up early, as space will be limited.

Event Host: Linda Leeds, (561) 683-2851, lindamarie7@juno.com.
Wilderness Trekkers, Orlando Paddling, kayaking, hiking, cycling
03/06/10
Saturday
Time: 8:30
Hiking
Leisure
Wekiva Springs S.P.
Apopka
Hike Wekiwa Springs State Park - We'll plan to meet at 8:30 am at the Sand Lake parking lot. There are a number of trails from there. Afterwards, you might enjoy the "Wekiva Paint Out" and the 5th Annual Riverfest taking place that day in the park. The Paint Out is an event that involves artists painting throughout the park all week. Their paintings are then displayed and sold at Wekiva Island or what many of us know as the Wekiva Marina. Bring water and a snack. No reservations required.

Questions: contact Host Erica Johnson at paddlepuff@earthlink.net or 407 327 4044, or Co-Host Sue Boardman at board457@gmail.com or 407 339 2426
Wilderness Trekkers, Orlando Paddling, kayaking, hiking, cycling
03/06/10 – 03/07/10
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.
Wilderness Trekkers, Orlando Paddling, kayaking, hiking, cycling
Date Change
3/19/10 - 3/20/10
Friday - Sunday
Time: see details
Third Annual North Marion Bike Ride
Paynes Prairie
Micanopy FL
Third Annual North Marion and Hawthorne Trail Bike Ride - This year take time off of work to come early Friday as we are planning a dinner at the "Yearling Restaurant" in Cross Creek about 15 minutes from Paynes Prairie. This is one voted one of Florida's best and Friday night they have a live band (reservations might be required).

Saturday - this year I staked out a new route. We will leave from McIntosh city park and traverse a 34 mile loop west and south of our prior route. A pot luck in the evening as usual.

Sunday - we will do the Hawthorne trail again, this year starting from the Gainesville end taking in the hills near the sink, Boulware Springs, and the Chula spur.

For every detail about this ride along with pictures and maps, go to the North Marion Bike Ride web site.

Hosted by: Clark Getz cagola1@aol.com
Wilderness Trekkers, Orlando Paddling, kayaking, hiking, cycling
3/14/10
Sunday
Time: 9:00
Kayak Skills Session
Lake Mills Park
Chuluota
Kayak Skill Session- For All Skill Levels - Learn about safety gear to carry with you. Learn basic paddle strokes or improve your skills, learn how to be an effective paddler, paddle with finesse. Guaranteed that you will learn a new skill or improve on existing skills. And of course, we will play and have fun too. The session is about three to four - hour long with Ken Knapton, Michael Shugg and Mariam Mohsenin. RSVP is required.

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.

Focus all reservations to Mariam Mohsenin at (407)325-7596, mohseninma@gmail.com.
Wilderness Trekkers, Orlando Paddling, kayaking, hiking, cycling
3/27/10 – 3/28/10
Saturday – Sunday
Time: contact host
Paddling w/camping
Moderate
Cedar Key, FL
Cedar Key paddle and camping - Cedar Key is located on the Nature Coast, 3 miles out on the Gulf of Mexico, and 50 miles SW of Gainesville. It consists of 5 large islands and many, many smaller ones making up Cedar Key Wildlife Refuge. This city of islands is rustic and abundant with wildlife. You'll even see dolphins. Camping will be at Shell Mound, - part of the Lower Suwannee NWR. $10.00 a site, first come first served. They do not take reservations (352-221-4466). Back-up camping is also conveniently located at Sunset Isle RV Park & Motel located right on Route 24 http://www.cedarkeyrv.com/. They may take reservations (800-810-1103), but the last time I was there they said they never turn anyone away. I’ll be getting there Fri. night but we'll meet Sat. morning at the Shell Mound boat ramp to start our paddle north to Deer Island and beyond. Pot luck dinner and a campfire Sat. night. Sunday morning get an early start – put in at Cedar Key Beach and paddle across to Atsena Otie, then maybe Snake Key.

PFD and whistle a required. Spray skirts are "recommended" as it can get choppy at times in the more open waters.

Contact Carol Noll: e-mail - horsfeathers.noll@gmail.com or call - 352-817-5257.
Wilderness Trekkers, Orlando Paddling, kayaking, hiking, cycling
3/27/10 – 4/4/10
Entire Week
Saturday – Sunday
Time: contact host
Paddling w/camping
Moderate-to-Strenous
Undecided
Spring Break Week long kayak and camping - It will be river camping on either the Satilla which is just over the border into GA or the Blackwater River and Cold Water Creek in the Florida Panhandle. My first choice is the Satilla. It was so beautiful the last time that we did it with wild azaleas all over the place and white sand beaches for camping. The water level is the determining factor.

Host: Nancy Doucette (561)968-1789 kayakldy@yahoo.com
Wilderness Trekkers, Orlando Paddling, kayaking, hiking, cycling
03/28/10
Sunday
Time: 10:00AM
Paddling
Leisure
Canaveral Natl Seashore
Canaveral National Seashore - Paddle 2 miles to Goodrich restaurant for a delicious brunch. Launch from River Breeze Park in Oak Hill. We'll paddle back to the put-in for those who need to move on and the rest of us will paddle around the islands to get familiar with the campsite locations. This trip is ideal for those who are planning to go camping in the future with all the gear in the kayak. Depending on the weather, we could experience open water conditions. RSVP so host can contact you if the trip is cancellled.

Host Ken Knapton and co-host Don Cihak. Focus all RSVPs to Don Cihak at cihakd@earthlink.net or (407) 902-1509. PFD and whistle are required on all paddles, must wear PFD.
Wilderness Trekkers, Orlando Paddling, kayaking, hiking, cycling Wilderness Trekkers, Orlando Paddling, kayaking, hiking, cycling
04/02/10 – 04/04/10
Friday – Sunday
Time: contact host
Hike, paddle, camp
Leisure
Princess Place Preserve
Flagler County
Princess Place Preserve - Come for the whole Easter weekend or join us during the day for a laid back trip at peaceful Princess Place Preserve, north of Palm Coast.  Erica has reserved a few nice large campsites to share there for Easter weekend.  These waterfront drive-in sites are by the Matanzas River. No campers or pop-ups, no electric.  Restrooms/hot showers available.

Princess Place is a beautiful old estate, now a preserve, with lots to explore.  Options of hiking, paddling, biking (most on paved or dirt roads), historic house tour, and relaxing.  No night arrivals - gate locks at 6 PM, no driving in the preserve after 6 pm.  For those who are interested, an early morning Easter service is held at the preserve.  Limited trip.  Camping preference given to those who can stay both nights due to limited spots.  Please RSVP by March 19 to reserve your camping spot and for details. If you wish to join us for the day only, ok. (Day visitors limited only by logistics).

Contact Erica at paddlepuff@earthlink.net or 407-327-4044.
Wilderness Trekkers, Orlando Paddling, kayaking, hiking, cycling
04/03/10
Saturday
Time: 9:00
Paddle
Moderate
Rock Springs Paddle
Apopka, FL
Paddle Rock Springs Run - Rock Springs Run originates from a spring just north of Apopka and winds through Wekiwa Springs State Park before joining with the Wekiva River. This is one of the few remaining places in Florida that has a sense of timelessness. The paddle is about 8 miles long and usually takes 4½ to 5 hours. We will meet at King's Landing and be on the river by 9:00 a.m. For those participants wanting to shuttle their own boats, please be at King' Landing and have your boat and gear unloaded by 8:15 to start the shuttle to the Wekiva Marina. Boat rentals and shuttle service is available at King' landing (407-886-0859 or kingslandingfl.com). The last time I paddled, it was $10 to launch, contact King’s Landing for other fees. Pack a lunch and we will find a spot along the river to eat and stretch our legs.

Event Host: Tony Owen 407-402-3330 towen@finfrockdmc.com
Wilderness Trekkers, Orlando Paddling, kayaking, hiking, cycling
04/04/10
Sunday
Time: 9:00
Paddle
Moderate - Strenuous
Haulover Canal

Intercoastal Paddle in Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge - Haulover Canal is one mile long and links the Indian River and Mosquito Lagoon in the Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge. We hope to see, manatees, dolphins and numerous birds. We will either paddle the Indian River or we might paddle Mosquito Lagoon, but we plan on a 10 mile trip. This paddle may not be suitable for everyone due to open water conditions and its distance. Contact host for additional preparedness and information.

PFD and whistle are required by law and PDFs must be worn on all sessions. Please give yourself ample time to arrive and get ready to paddle at 9:00 am.

Event Host: Ken Knapton and Mariam Mohsenin at (407)325-7596, mohseninma@gmail.com
Wilderness Trekkers, Orlando Paddling, kayaking, hiking, cycling
04/07/10
Wednesday
Time: 9:30
Hike
Leisure
Lyonia Preserve
Deltona, FL
Hike Lyonia Preserve in Deltona - Lyonia Preserve where we may see some friendly Florida Scrub Jays (a protected species) and the typical plants found in one of Florida’s few remaining scrub areas, the predominant ecosystem in Central Florida before human intervention. A recent count found 27 scrub jay families residing there. This is rather hilly terrain with a sandy trail and limited shade; approx. 4 mile trip. The preserve is behind the Deltona Public Library. Bring water, hat and snack. Other options include eating something at the “Bakery” which is open most of the day for breakfast and lunch, visit gift shop, Environmental Center (fee).

Please Contact Erica if you plan to come and for direction paddlepuff@earthlink.net or 407-327-4044.
Wilderness Trekkers, Orlando Paddling, kayaking, hiking, cycling
04/24/10
Saturday
Time: 9:00PM
Off-Road Biking
Moderate
Boyette Park
Brandon, FL
Off-Road Cycling at Balm Boyette- Balm Boyette Scrub Preserve has 25 miles of single-track and 10 miles of two-track that has become single-track with usage. Boyette is situated on 4,900 acres of upland scrub, located just south of Brandon. About a dozen lakes populate rolling grasslands at the far eastern end of the property, with the remainder being heavily covered with scrub-oak and pine. From beginner to advanced rider, Boyette has something for everyone. For additional information, check out these links - SWAMP club and Single Track mountain biking web info.

Bar-B-Q joint on the way out for a hearty fill-up after a good ride.

From I-4 heading west toward Tampa, exit County Line Road (Polk and Hillsborough County). Drive south until county line road dead-ends at S.R. 60 where you will turn right to head west. Go 4.4 miles to S.R. 39. At 39 head south (left) and go 12.6 miles to S.R. 672 and turn right (SR 672 is about 1 mile on the right past Alafia State Park and 7.2 miles past Alderman County Park). On S.R. 672 head west 6.4 miles until Balm Boyette Rd on the right (there is a little town at this road). Turn right on Balm Boyette Rd and go about 1-mile. There is a parking area on the right. You will see one of those standard brown "birding" trail sign just before the parking lot.

Co-Host Kim Joiner and Clark Getz. Contact cagola1@aol.com or 407-222-2846
Wilderness Trekkers, Orlando Paddling, kayaking, hiking, cycling
04/24/10
Saturday
Time: 7:00PM
Night Paddle
Leisure
Winter Park Chain Of Lakes
Winter Park, FL
Moonlight Paddle – Winter Park Chain of Lakes - We will explore Lake Virginia, Lake Osceola and Lake Maitland by moonlight during this “Urban” Wilderness Trek. We plan to paddle the canals and lakes to Dog Island, where we will have a break and a campfire. The trek will start at 7:00, when the almost full moon will be visible in the eastern sky. 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 the public.

Event Host Shelley Claudin . Contact shelley.claudin@cubic.comor 407-758-2633.
Wilderness Trekkers, Orlando Paddling, kayaking, hiking, cycling Wilderness Trekkers, Orlando Paddling, kayaking, hiking, cycling Wilderness Trekkers, Orlando Paddling, kayaking, hiking, cycling
04/30/10 – 05/02/10
Friday – Sunday
Time: see link
Bike, Paddle, Hike
Varied Difficulty
Stephen Foster State Park
White Springs, FL
Suwannee Bicycle Association - Spring Pedal & Paddle Festival - The Spring Bicycle Festival, organized by the Suwannee Bicycle Association, offers many wonderful outdoor experiences around White Springs and Suwannee River Valley. In addition to great on-road and off-road trails, the area offers canoe, kayak and eco-adventures. Come and enjoy a different adventure every morning, afternoon and evening.

Off-road riding, all level of rides from beginners to experts with over 50 miles of off road trails. Road riding for all levels, cruise the quite scenic roads around White Springs. Friday ride. Saturday enjoy the Triple Loop Century. Rest Stops at SBA Club House. Florida Trail Eco-Photo Hike- Bring you camera and curiosity and join a guide along to explore and capture the natural beauty of the Suwannee Valley on a leisure walk. Bike, Drive or Hike to Big Shoals- Ride the paved Woodpecker Trail. Paddling (Dependant on river levels and weather): Paddle trip reservations can be made at American Canoe Adventures (ACA), White Springs at 386-397-1309 or www.aca1.com. Check with ACA for new location. Recommend making paddle reservations prior to event. Pedal and Paddle: Pedal 15 miles to Suwannee Canoe Outpost (386-364-4991) at Spirit of Suwannee Music Park for a six mile paddle down the Suwannee River and then pedal 17 miles back to Stephen Foster State Park.

Details at http://www.suwanneebike.org/sbf.htm

WT Event Coordinator - Clark Getz cagola1@aol.com
Wilderness Trekkers, Orlando Paddling, kayaking, hiking, cycling
5/8/10
Saturday
Time: 8:30
Morning Hike
Lk Cnty Biologist Lead
Easy
Hidden Waters
Eustis FL
Hidden Waters Preserve and Biologist Lead Hike - East of Eustis in Lake County is Hidden Waters Preserve a 90 acre preserve with a deep depression and a small pond in its center. There is a trail that circumnavigates about this hole which is considered a leak into the aquafer and hence is highly protected land. There is a spring on the land and a clear stream about 2 feet wide. Ninety acres is a pretty heafty size property and I suspect the hike will be near 2 miles around. Ben Gugliotti, a biologist from the Lake County Water Authority, will be on had to provide an interpretive hike, identifying indiginous and evasive plants and a bit about the property inself. Bring some hydration and a lite snack.

Host: Clark Getz cagola1@aol.com 407 222 2846
Wilderness Trekkers, Orlando Paddling, kayaking, hiking, cycling
5/9/10
Sunday
Mother's Day
Time: 9:00
Morning Hike
Location - Call Host
Lake Norris Paddle - Lake Norris, paddle winding thru cypress trees, hoping to see ospreys nests. This is one of the most beautiful trips in the area lakes. We'll cover about 6 miles. like last time

PDF must be worn on all sessions. Contact host for location to meet, we'll then drive to the launch point.

Host: Your hosts: Ken Knapton and Mariam Mohsenin at (407)325-7596, mohseninma@gmail.com
Wilderness Trekker Spring Gathering Wilderness Trekker Spring Gathering Wilderness Trekkers, Orlando Paddling, kayaking, hiking, cycling
5/15/10
Saturday
Time: 8:30
Spring Gathering
Location - T.B.D
Oviedo FL
Annual Spring Gathering - The 2010-2011 Wilderness Trekker Spring Gathering will be at at a park near Oviedo in Seminole County. Breakfast will be provided. All members are encouraged to come out for the morning to mingle and get to know new members, ask questions, inspire new trips, share ideas and provide feedback to the future board members. There will be a New Member Orientation incorporated during this event, something that all members should observe and contribute, as we would like our broader membership to participate in these quarterly events.

The WT Board will be elected by the general membership during this time. This will be followed by a planned hike, bike and paddle within close proximity of the park, but all requiring a short drive. Don't forget to bring cash or checkbook if you'd like to purchase any cool Wilderness Trekker merchandise, available for purchase! Look for the signs to direct you to the pavilion with the WT banner. The event will be held at either Riverside Park off of Lockwood or Lake Mills park. That will be decided soon.

Make reservations to Clark Getz cagola1@aol.com or #407-855-5351 .

Host: Clark Getz cagola1@aol.com 407 222 2846
Wilderness Trekkers, Orlando Paddling, kayaking, hiking, cycling
5/16/10 - 5/23/2010
Sunday - Sunday
Paddling w/camping
Strenuous
Buffalo Natl River
Arkansas
Buffalo National River - in Arkansas. Few experiences can compare to a float trip down the Buffalo. Clear waters, high bluffs, wooded hillsides, and a myriad of wildlife and wildflowers. The plan is to paddle from Ozark Landing to Buffalo Point Ranger Station, 72 river miles. This is primarily a canoe/kayak river camping trip. We’ll camp on gravel bars, with landings available for water/food re-stocking or take outs. There might be some day trips, returning to a semi-developed Nat’l Park Service campsite.

Since paddling the Buffalo is influenced by water levels, the exact plan will be determined by conditions/water level at the time. Fast water and easy rapids expected. (Long sea kayaks not appropriate for this trip.) Moderate paddling skills needed. Plan to be at Ozark Landing Sat May 15. See river information at www.nps.gov/buff . This is a joint trip with another club.


If interested in this trip, contact Erica Johnson. Deadline, April 28. 407-327-4044.
Wilderness Trekkers, Orlando Paddling, kayaking, hiking, cycling
5/29/10 – 5/31/10
Saturday – Monday
Memorial Day Weekend
Time: contact host
Paddling w/camping
Easy-to-Moderate
Rock Springs and Wekiva Springs
Apopka FL
Rock Springs and Wekiva Springs Memorial Day Weekend - On Saturday morning we will run a shuttle and put-in at King's Landing for a paddling, swimming and relaxing trip down Rock Springs run. We will river camp on Saturday night at a camp site4 on Rock Springs run. On Sunday, we will continue down the river and down Wekiwa River to river camp in Buffalo Tram campsiate. Monday we will continue down the Wekiwa to take out near Katie's Landing. It is a very relaxed trip.

Host: Nancy Doucette (561)968-1789 kayakldy@yahoo.com
Wilderness Trekkers, Orlando Paddling, kayaking, hiking, cycling
10/21/10 – 10/24/10
Thursday – Sunday
Paddle
Various
2010 Florida Paddlers’ Rendezvous
Silver River State Park
Ocala, FL
2010 Florida Paddlers' Rendezvous - Mark your Calendars now --
For the 2010 Florida Paddlers' Rendezvous, October 21-24.

FL Sport Paddling Club (FSPC) proudly continues the Rendezvous tradition of bringing together Florida paddling clubs and paddling enthusiasts for a weekend of fun, friends and paddles.

This year's base camp will be the Silver River State Park campground from which we will launch four days of trips that canoeists and kayakers of all skill levels will enjoy. Also join the potluck supper, program, nightly campfires, paddlers' swap meet, and the wonderful exchange of friendship and paddling skills that evolves when so many with like interests come together.

The main event will take place Friday-Sunday, October 22-24, 2010. Make your reservations at Silver River SP now!! Pre-Rendezvous paddles will be held Thursday, October 21, for those who can come early. Trip details and a list of additional accommodations will follow when we have a website set up.
Wilderness Trekkers, Orlando Paddling, kayaking, hiking, cycling
10/30/10 – 10/31/10
Saturday – Sunday
Paddle 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.
Wilderness Trekkers, Orlando Paddling, kayaking, hiking, cycling Wilderness Trekkers, Orlando Paddling, kayaking, hiking, cycling Wilderness Trekkers, Orlando Paddling, kayaking, hiking, cycling
11/24/10 – 11/28/10
Thursday – Sunday
Hike, Camp, Paddle
Easy to Moderate
Thanksgiving Weekend
Jonathan Dickinson State Park
Hobe Sound FL
Thanksgiving Weekend at Jonathan Dickinson State Park - Near Jupiter between Stuart to the north and West Palm Beach to the south. Information and directions at Jonathan Dickinson State Park. DeLorme map page 103, 2-D.

Car camping and cabins available: Our “headquarters” will be at site # 94 at River Campground. #91-98 and 100-116 have some type of vegetation around them. 102 &104 border the RV dump station and 101 & 103 border the bathrooms. Other sites, 117-135, have had the trees cut down. (The Pine Grove campground is closed until sometime in January) So, if you want a good site, or any site at all, book now.. If you have to cancel, the fee is only $10. Reserve America or 1-800-326-3521. There are cabins for $100 a day. Call 561-746-1466, but they can only be reserved 30 days in advance.

Come for all or part of the weekend.

There’s no end to the activities available in the area:
Paddling the Loxahatchee River, Riverbend Park, the South Fork of the St. Lucie, and St. Lucie Inlet State Park. (Some rentals available.) The Loxahatchee is a federally designated Wild and Scenic River.
Bicycling both on and off road in Jonathan Dickinson State Park, Jupiter Island, Riverbend Park.
Walking on several trails in JDSP, Riverbend. (Some rentals available.)
Other area attractions: Jupiter Lighthouse, Blowing Rocks Preserve, Busch Wildlife Sanctuary, Hobe Sound Wildlife Refuge, the pontoon boat on the Loxahatchee to visit Trapper Nelson’s homestead.

And, of course, Thanksgiving dinner!!! In addition to eating (always the most important thing) we’ll make plans for various activities, with sign-up sheets to see who’s interested in doing what. We’ll coordinate who’s bringing what for our turkey dinner (4 pm Thursday) and some other meals when we get closer to the date.

This is a joint activity with Palm Beach Pack & Paddle Club; www.PalmBeachPackandPaddleClub.org

Hosted by: Linda Leeds, lindamarie7@juno.com or 561-683-2851.
Event Hosts
Please validate your event write-up to ensure each piece of information is accurate. If at any time prior to your event you would like to change your event write-up or add to it, please send your script directly to Clark Getz, the Web Manager. However, if you change your date, you must first email the Activities Coordinator and then the change will be forwarded to me.
Printable PDF
Why is the printed version out of date as compared to the on-line version? We publish our calendar on a bi-monthly basis, typically about the 18th of the month prior to the two months that the calendar starts. We publish a Dec-Jan, Feb-Mar, Apr-May, Jun-Jul, Aug-Sep, Oct-Nov calendar. However, we often get impromptu trips and changes to trips that are published at any time on the web page only. The operations to create a printable PDF are are too time consuming to try to maintain duplicity. Therefore, the printed version is created prior to the bi-monthly publication and remain "as is" until the next bi-monthly calendar. Eventhough you have a printed hard copy in your hand, if you are about to attend an event, it is always wise to check the on-line calendar first.