March 6 Saturday 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 there’s been recent rain, expect wading in ankle-to-waist-deep water for over half the hike. Bring lunch, hiking sticks/poles, and extra dry clothes and shoes. Old, but sturdy, boots recommended. Kent Wimmer (850) 523-8576 kwimmer@fs.fed.us

March 9 Tuesday P  Apalachee Chapter Meeting Program: “Open Forum with FTA Directors”

Come hear what is being achieved and worked towards on your behalf, with your support! Executive Director Deborah Stewart-Kent will update us on exciting developments and FTA objectives. Development Director Mike Eurich will outline some exciting activities taking place & answer any giftgiving or legacy questions. This is a rare opportunity to meet State HQ staff face-to face and directly ask the hardhitting questions you want answered. Plan to attend. And bring a friend. 7 p.m. at Woodcrest Office Park, 325 John Knox Rd., Bldg. F (first bldg. on the right). Look for Florida Trail signs on wooden door at east end of building. Free. Contact: Linda Patton 850-668-4334.

March 12-13 Fri – Sat P/M New River Canoe & Kayak Trip.

Paddle the New River in Liberty and Franklin Counties from Rd 22 Sumatra to Pope Place in Tate’s Hell State Forest. We will meet in Sumatra and then 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. Limit 12 people. Ronny Traylor (850) 643-5517. ronnytraylor@gmail.com

March 13 Saturday P/L Sopchoppy River Hike.

View native azaleas and other blooming wildflowers along the Sopchoppy River Section of the Florida National Scenic Trail in the Apalachicola National Forest. Hike about 5 miles in gently rolling terrain. Limit 15 people. Galen Moses (850) 926-9476.

March 14 Sunday P/M Nature Conservancy’s ApalachicolaBluffs Garden of Eden Trail.

Enjoy a spring hike along the 3.5 mile round-trip trail that is biologically unique to Florida. Bring snacks and water. A hiking stick or pole may be desirable to assist in negotiating steep climbs and descents. Sturdy shoes recommended. Carpooling. Limit 12 people. Connie Betterley (850) 294-6302 cjbetterley@msn.com

March 20 Saturday P/L Wakulla Birding and Wildlife Festival.

Fun and educational activities for the whole family. The Apalachee Chapter will sponsor an information table on the grounds of the Wakulla Springs State Park. Volunteers are needed to help at the table for 1 or 2 hours, and also enjoy the festival. Call for more information or to volunteer. Terry Tenold (850) 877- 1612 totenold49@aol.com

March 21 Sunday P/L Leon Sinks Geological Area Hike.

See native azaleas and dogwoods in bloom. The interpretive trail winds through scenic and varied terrain, including major sinks, a natural bridge, a disappearing stream, and swamps. Trailhead fee per vehicle, so call for car-pooling arrangements. Limit 15 people. Terry Tenold (850) 877-1612 totenold49@aol.com

March 26-28 Fri – Sun P/L FTA Annual Conference and Meeting.

At the Florida FFA Leadership Training Center, Haines City, FL. Details in the FOOTPRINT or online at floridatrail.org

All activities are free unless otherwise noted.
Codes:
“P” Public welcome to participate
“M” Limited to FTA members only
“L” Leisurely
“M” Moderately difficult
“S” Strenuous

Please read the GUIDELINES FOR OUTING PARTICIPANTS before signing up for an activity. This will make for a better outing experience for all concerned. Click here for a copy of the Guidelines.