Even in its incomplete state, the Florida Trail is one of just 11 federally designated national scenic trails, and while few walk its full length, the trail attracts more than 350,000 people each year who bite off sections.
People Also Ask
Trail CommunityIf you plan to thru-hike the Florida Trail, keep in mind this is not a social trail like the Appalachian Trail. Less than 400 people have completed the entire trail. Unless you pair up with a hiking partner, much of your hike will be spent in solitude.
Since 2018, I have been section hiking the Florida Trail, one of eleven congressionally-designated National Scenic Trails in the United States. At more than 1,300 miles, the FT has been called the “toughest hike you've never heard of” for its exceptionally diverse track over the span of the Florida peninsula.
The Snowman Trek in Bhutan is considered one of the most challenging treks in the world. It is a 217-mile (350 km) journey that takes around 25-30 days to complete. The trek begins in the district of Paro. From here hikers will pass through lush forests and cross nine high-altitude passes along the way.
A typical thru-hiker takes two to three months to hike the entire FT. After deciding when and where to begin and then registering your thru-hike, you will need to plan your resupply points and know the needed permits and camping regulations along the Florida Trail.
Cost of a Thru-HikeToday, the figure is usually considered to be about $3 per mile. If that is the case, then to complete all 1,100 miles you shouldn't begin the trip without $3,300 in the bank.
The trail is approximately 1,500-miles long and is intended to offer a continuous, permanent non-motorized recreation opportunity for hiking and other compatible activities.
83-year-old becomes the oldest person to hike the Appalachian Trail : NPR. 83-year-old becomes the oldest person to hike the Appalachian Trail M.J. Eberhart, who goes by the trail name of Nimblewill Nomad, hiked the entire 2,193-mile trail.
Thru-hikers are exempt from all fees and may camp at any campsite without a permit except for Lake Jackson. If you want to camp at Lake Jackson, call 352-732-1225. Section hikers must day for day use permits at trailside kiosks.
Big Cypress National PreserveSouth Florida's Big Cypress National Preserve is a must-visit spot along the Florida Trail, particularly if you're looking for a challenge. Although this 30-mile hike is touted as Florida's toughest backpacking trip, its incomparable beauty makes the hard work worth it.
In an environment where temperatures are frequently in the 90s, and long stretches of trail may provide no shade or little water, heat exhaustion is a major concern. It's one of the reasons (along with summer rains and insect populations) that most Florida hikers only hit the trail between October and April.