The Florida Trail Association was incorporated in 1964 and began building and marking trail in 1966. In 1983 the trail was designated by congress as a National Scenic Trail and joined seven other such trails in the United States. Currently there are approximately 5,500 volunteers who build and maintain a wilderness hiking trail of 1,400 miles as well as associated connector, side and loop hiking trails of about another 1,000 miles throughout Florida.

The mission of the Florida Trail Association is to develop, maintain, promote, and protect a continuous public hiking trail the length of the state of Florida, called the Florida National Scenic Trail, and other side and loop trails, together called the Florida Trail System; and to educate the public by teaching appreciation for and conservation of the natural beauty of Florida; and to provide opportunities to hike and camp.

The vision of the Florida Trail Association is to be the steward of the premier wilderness hiking trail system, stretching the length and breadth of Florida that offers the public the opportunity to experience and appreciate the unique natural beauty, diversity, and fragility of Florida.

The FTA Strategic Plan is envisioned to extend three to five years with an annual review and revision/update so that our view remains three to five years in the future. With this in mind the:
The long-range goals of the Florida Trail Association are:

I. The Florida Trail System:
1. Complete and protect a continuous wilderness hiking trail the length of Florida.
2. Build, maintain and protect side, connector, and loop trails throughout the state of Florida in partnership with various landowners and land managers.
3. Be the effective steward of the Florida Trail System and pursue the protection of all trail segments.

II. Membership
1. Expand and diversify the membership base.
2. Deliver services to membership in accordance with our mission and bylaws.
3. Develop and utilize effective communication with the membership.
4. Encourage active volunteerism within membership.

III. Development
1. Develop a diversified income base.
2. Ensure continuation of federal funding for the FNST program.
3. Continue high standard and management of finances.

IV. Education and Outreach:
1. Provide outreach projects that educate both the citizens of and visitors to Florida about the Florida Trail System, and Florida’s natural beauty and the necessity to conserve them.
2. Provide opportunities for the public to experience natural Florida through hiking, camping, and other human-powered outdoor activities.

V. Governance and Administration:
1. Evaluate and assess the current Board of Directors structure for efficiency and effectiveness.
2. Establish an annual evaluation and review process of the Board of Directors and the Executive Director.
3. Assess and restructure the Nominating Committee process.
4. Evaluate the functionality of Association physical facilities.
5. Review the responsibilities of chapters to assure alignment with the mission and goals of the Association.