Sandhill Chapter - Florida Trail Association

FTA Activity: Ichetucknee Springs River Paddle/Swim at State Park North Entrance.
Leader(s): Maria Fiedler
Date: Monday, 9/25/2023. Meet me at the Boat Launch parking lot at 2:00pm to sign in and plan. We will be paddling down from the north end to Midpoint and paddling back up to north end. The river current is running 3-5 mph. Per group choice, we may swim at the spring after our paddle at the head springs.
Location: Ichetucknee SP North Entrance, 8294 SW Elim Church Rd, Fort White, FL 32038 The Boat Launch parking lot is past the main parking lot. Ask the Gate attendant for further directions. The North boat launch of the river is restricted to paddling only. NO tubing is allowed at any time from the north boat launch.
Leader(s): Maria Fiedler
Description: Let’s paddle, kayak, canoe or paddle board Ichetucknee Springs River. It’s a beautiful clear, cool 72 degrees spring fed river. The great way to cool off outdoors and observe the natural scenery.
Directions: Depends on where you are driving from, follow map directions to Ichetucknee SP North Entrance.
General Information: This activity is for seasoned paddlers and strong swimmers only with their own equipment.
General admission $6 per vehicle. Limit 2-8 people/vehicle. $4 Single Occupant Vehicle. OR with your FL State Park Pass.
Bathrooms: Yes.
Dogs allowed: No
Restricted to: Adults over 18. Experienced paddlers with strong swimming skills. FTA members only 20 participants. If not a member and would like to join us call 877-HIKE-FLA or join online at www.floridatrail.org/join.

FTA Tuesday Evening Hike at Devil’ Millhopper Geological State Park

Date: Thursday September 28, 2023. Cancelled if thunderstorms in the area.

Leader: Maria Fiedler

Location: 4732 Millhopper Rd, Gainesville, FL.

Directions: Head north on NW 43rd St in GNV , turn left onto NW 53rd Ave, Millhopper Road, to park entrance less than ½ mile on the right.

Time: Arrive at 5:30 pm to sign in at the parking lot after paying the admission fee ($4.00 per vehicle, up to 8. $2.00 per pedestrian/bicyclists). OR use your current FL State Park Pass.
Be ready to walk at 5:45 pm.

Description: “This National Natural Landmark (in 1976) has attracted curious visitors since 1880s. In the midst of North Florida sandy terrain and pine forests, a bowl-shaped cavity 120 feet deep leads down to a miniature rain forest…”. “…perfect place to escape the lights and noise of the city and experience nature!” Park Manager’s message. A new sink hole boardwalk was completed in June 2019.

General Information: Dress to comfort and bring water/snack per preference. Prepare for a walk in the woods and walk down to the 120-foot-deep sink hole, 132 steps and back up. We will then walk around the perimeter of this sink hole on the upper perimeter trail~1 mile. We may repeat the steps for those who choose to participate while others await at the top. This will be a quiet voice walk.

Bathrooms: Yes.

Dogs allowed: Not for our hike.

Restricted to: 20 FTA members . Not a member? Call 877-HIKE-FLA or join online at www.floridatrail.org/join.

The Florida Trail Association Sandhill Chapter is having a general membership meeting at the Millhopper Library in Gainesville,FL.
Darby Guyn from the City of Gainesville's Sweetwater Wetlands Park will be our guest speaker.
There will also be discussion on future chapter activities, training, events and a report on Florida Trail conditions post Hurricane Idalia.
We have a lot to catch up on, Hope you will join us.