In spring there are wildflowers all along the trail with an abundant display of mountain laurel and flame azalea in the Alaqua Basin. In the fall the wildflower display shifts to the sand ridges where the yellows explode in late October. There are numerous stream crossings. All are bridged with the exception of the eastern crossing of Alaqua Creek. There are 4 backcountry campsites spaced 7-10 miles apart. All campsites have fire rings and are located close to flowing streams that originate within Eglin. None of these campsites are accessible via vehicle.
DeFuniak Springs is a Victorian town on the National Register of Historic Districts. Motels, restaurants and groceries are available at the I-10/US 331 intersection.
The eastern end of this section is at the US 331/SR 20 intersection in Freeport. The western end is at the SR 285 trailhead, 2.0 miles south of Interstate 10.
Disclaimer: While FTA strives to maintain accurate information and is constantly updating its geodatabase, the trail and development along the trail corridor is constantly changing. The data has been collected from a variety of sources and accuracy varies. FTA provides this data for recreational purposes only and does not intend the data as a survey.
Centerline data Florida Trail System (c) 2007 Florida Trail Association, Inc.
From Freeport to the entrance into Eglin Air Force Base the trail is along roads until rerouting through natural areas is possible. The Eglin longleaf pine, turkey oak and Hawthorne forest on well drained sand ridges with numerous large and small stream crossings. The largest stream is Alaqua Creek, which the trail crosses twice.
Hunting is allowed on Eglin AFB in all areas along the FNST. Wear safety orange during hunt seasons. When Alaqua Creek is at flood stage it can present dangerous conditions at both the crossing and in the flood basin. During periods of high water hikers should use the blue-blazed high water route (Range Roads 201/317). Unexploded Ordinance: Eglin is a military installation with ongoing military missions and exercises. A primary military mission at Eglin is the development and testing of munitions (explosives). The trail route does not traverse any area where hikers would be expected to encounter unexploded munitions. However, should you encounter items you suspect to be an unexploded ordinance you are to: 1) not approach or handle the item(s) and 2) alert Eglin's Natrual Resources Branch of the item's location (850) 882-4164.
Overnight camping is not allowed on the beach.
Hikers on Eglin AFB are restricted to within 100 yards of the blazed FNST, side trails and designated campsites. Camping is authorized only at designated campsites and fires are restricted to fire rings in the campsites.
Eglin requires that all hikers age 16 or older, except thru-hikers (see below), to have in their possession a valid Eglin Recreation Permit. An annual(Oct 1 to Sept 30) recreation permit costs $10 and can be purchased at the Eglin Natural Resources Branch, 107 Hwy 85 North, Niceville, FL 32578.(850) 882-4164. Permits may be purchased through the mail with a check or money order and a copy of a photo ID.
While on the trail in Eglin, all hikers must also complete and carry the tear-off Hiker Registration Cards that are available at each trailhead kiosk they pass (US 331, Alaqua, SR 285, SR 85, SR 87 and River Rd). All hikers are also required to carry positive proof of identification. All overnight campers, except for FT thru-hikers (see below), must also purchase a $10 Camping Permit which covers groups up to 10 for 5 days.
As an aid to thru-hikers (backpackers starting and ending their hikes 30 miles beyond Eglin's boundaries), Eglin does not require thru-hikers to obtain a Recreation or Camping Permit. In lieu of these permits, thru-hikers must have in their possession an official letter from FTA confirming their status as a thru-hiker and listing approximate dates of travel within Eglin. Thru-hikers are also required to complete a Hiker Registration Card at each trailhead kiosk and have the bottom part in their possession while on Eglin AFB.
Hiking 
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