Events

The Florida Trail Association holds several events throughout the year.  These events are either run by the different Chapters, or the FTA itself.  You can search different activities and events in your area by going to our activities calendar.

**CANCELED**
Florida Crane and Nature Festival
January 19-20, 2013
May revive in the future.

21st Lake Okeechobee Hike

The “Big O Hike” comes of age on November 17, 2012.  This will be the start of the 21st annual hike around Lake Okeechobee on the Herbert Hoover Dike, 35 feet above the surrounding countryside.

Hikers assemble at the Pahokee Marina ready to take the first step at 8 AM, heading north for a nine day, 110 mile trek.  But it’s not as difficult as it seems. 

The hike is actuality a series of one day hikes and participants can join or leave the other hikers at any trail head around Lake Okeechobee. Popular hikes are the first day, a 3.5-mile “Wimp Walk” around Pahokee or the full day 12 mile walk to Port Mayaca. Hikers are shuttled back to the day’s starting point. 

There is no charge for the hike, and anyone is welcome to join the Loxahatchee Chapter of the Florida Trail Association in this, what is believed to be the longest running long distance hike in Florida.

In recent years, participants completing the entire hike have ranged in age from 9 to 92 years old.  Anyone in reasonably good health is welcome to join us in enjoying the outdoors and making new friends. Campgrounds or motels and meals for those requiring them are at the hiker's expense. Of special interest is Thanksgiving Dinner at the historic Clewiston Inn.  

For complete information contact Mike 'Nomad' Levitt at  561-843-8018.