Mar. 1 Sat P/S Annual Bradwell Bay Wilderness Swamp Stomp
Slog about 8 miles, in the heart of the Apalachicola National Forest, through one of the largest swamp forests in Florida. Rated by BACKPACKER magazine as one of the 10 toughest hikes in the USA. If we’ve had rain, expect wading in ankle-to-waist-deep water for over half of the hike. Bring lunch, hiking sticks, and extra dry clothes and shoes. Old, but sturdy boots recommended. Kent Wimmer (850) 523-8576 kwimmer@fs.fed.us

Mar. 7-8 Fri-Sat P/M Annual Tate’s Hell Kayak Canoe Trip Meet in Sumatra at the Costal Family Restaurant at 8:30 a.m. EST. We will go to the landing to unload gear and work out the shuttle to begin a 2-day adventure through Tate’s Hell. Bring sleeping gear, food, and water for the trip. Ronny Traylor (850) 643-5517

Mar. 11 Tue Program: “Hiking the Florida Trail: 1,100 Miles, 78 Days, Two pairs of Boots, and One Heck of an Adventure.” Johnny Molloy, outdoor adventurer and prolific guidebook writer, will wow us with images of his 2005 thruhike, talk about his trail experience–the good, the bad, and the ugly– and let us in on his thoughts about the Florida Trail. His newest book is the very first narrative of a Florida Trail thruhike.

Mar. 15 Sat P/L Sopchoppy River Hike View native azaleas and other blooming wildflowers on the FNST along the Sopchoppy River in the Apalachicola National Forest. Limit 15 people. Galen Moses galenmoses@aol.com

Mar. 22 Sat P/L Annual Leon Sinks Geological Area Hike See native azaleas and dogwoods in bloom. The interpretive trail winds through scenic terrain in the Apalachicola National Forest, including four major sinks, a natural bridge, a disappearing stream, and swamps. Trailhead parking fee – call for car-pool arrangements. Limit 15 people. Terry Tenold (850) 877-1612 totenold49@aol.c