What we’re about
About Us
The Alligator Amblers Chapter of the Florida Trail Association (FTA) serves Charlotte, Lee and Collier Counties and provides local hikers with numerous opportunities to participate in outdoor activities such as backpacking, biking, camping, hiking, paddling and trail maintenance.
Our parent organization the FTA is dedicated to building and maintaining the 1300 mile Florida National Scenic Trail streching from the Big Cypress Swamp, around Lake Okeechobee, through Ocala, Osceola and Apalachicola National Forests to Fort Pickens on Pensacola Beach. The Alligator Amblers assist in this mission by supporting and maintaing an eight mile portion of the Florida Trail south of I-75 in Big Cypress Swamp National Preserve as well as the 6.5 mile loop trail at Collier-Seminole State Park.
The Alligator Amblers have also assisted in building and maintaining trails within Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park (Collier County), Hickey's Creek Mitigation Park and Prairie Pines Preserve (Lee County) among others.
Please note: For the safety of our Activity Leaders and other participants the Alligator Amblers would like to respectfully request that your profile include a full facial photo so that you are recognizable when attending our events or activities.
Meetings
We meet monthly on the third Thursday of each month (except July and August). Check the Meetup site for specifics regarding location and time. You are welcome to join us! Most of our meetings feature educational and entertaining speakers. Come early to socialize.
Each month there is a presentation on an outdoor related topic, followed by a discussion of upcoming activities and trail related events.
Activities
Activities are scheduled throughout the year. More activities are planned during the cooler months. These outdoor events include day hikes, multi-day backpacking trips, car camping, trail maintenance, biking, plus both day and overnight paddling events. The public is welcome to all monthly meetings and many activities. Some activities must limit the number of persons or tents due to ecological, space or other factors. A few activities may only be available to FTA members to help the trip leader insure that all are capable of safely participating. These few activities may be more difficult, more strenuous or more remotely located than most.
Read each activity notice carefully. Realize that our activities are governed by the rules set forth by the FTA and are typically less casual than your typical Meetup event. An RSVP is required for participation in all Alligator Amblers' activities. An RSVP ensures that there is space available for you. Those who have not responded will be turned away from the activity
Upcoming events
2
Four Mile Nature-Walk at the Gordon River Greenway
1596 Golden Gate Pkwy, Naples, FL, USNote early start time to avoid crowded parking lot. This will be a four-mile leisurely nature walk at the Gordon River Greenway. Two miles in and two miles out.
The Gordon River Greenway passes through a mangrove forest alongside the Gordon River. Although this pathway is close to many tourist attractions in Naples, it has abundant natural features and wildlife. This will be a leisurely walk along a pathway that is a combination of a paved walkway and a raised boardwalk. It will meander through six different plant communities. We will share the trail with both bicycles and dogs on leashes.
Bring two quarts of water and bug spray. There are no water refill stations beyond the starting point, and it may be warm. Long sleeve shirts, pants, and close-toed shoes are recommended. Binoculars and camera suggested.
Links:
https://www.gordonrivergreenway.org/
https://www.collierparks.com/collier_park/gordon-river-greenway/An RSVP is required for participation in all Alligator Amblers' activities. An RSVP ensures that there is space available for you. Those who have not responded will be turned away from the activity.
Florida Trail Association (http://www.floridatrail.org/)
Amblers on Meetup (https://www.meetup.com/Alligator-Amblers/)20 attendees
4 Mile Hike on the Telegraph Creek Loop
Telegraph Creek Preserve, 16451 N River Rd, Alva, FL, USWe will take Telegraph Creek Preserve Loop for 4 miles. This beautiful preserve is located near Telegraph Estates along N. River Road. There are numerous protected species that call this area home such as the FL Panther, red-cockaded woodpecker, and several species of snakes. This preserve is adjacent to the Bob Janes Preserve.
There are no parking fees.
There is no restroom or drinking water on-site. Please be sure to check the What to bring information.
Recommended Attire and Items to Bring:
Wear sturdy closed toe shoes and long pants, bring 2L of drinking water, snacks, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent.Links:
Telegraph Creek Preserve (leegov.com)
TCP_trail_map_east.pdf (leegov.com)Difficulty Rating: Leisure
Directions:
From exit 141 on I-75 near Ft. Myers, take FL 80 east for 2.8 miles to FL 31. Turn left and take FL 31 north for 2.7 miles to County Road 78, North River Road. You will pass a left turn for CR 78 just after bridging the Caloosahatchee River. IGNORE that left turn and keep forward on FL 31, passing the Lee County Civic Center, then turn right on CR 78. Follow it for 4.8 miles to the preserve entrance on your left.An RSVP is required for participation in all Alligator Amblers' activities, and it ensures that there is space available for you.
An Assistant Activity Leader is needed for this event so please respond if you can help.
Florida Trail Association (http://www.floridatrail.org/)
Amblers on Meetup (https://www.meetup.com/Alligator-Amblers/)12 attendees
Past events
409
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