The Space Coast Hiking Meetup Group is a public outreach of the Florida Trail Association – Indian River Chapter. The Florida Trail Association (FTA) develops, maintains, protects, and promotes a network of hiking trails throughout the state, including the unique Florida National Scenic Trail (FNST). Together with our partners we provide opportunities for the public to hike, engage in outdoor recreation, participate in environmental education, and contribute to meaningful volunteer work. As a 501 (c) 3 non-profit corporation, we depend on an extensive network of volunteers to achieve our mission.

The Florida National Scenic Trail (FNST) is one of the United States 11 National Scenic Trails, and stretches 1,300 miles, from the edge of the everglades ecosystem in Big Cypress National Preserve to the white sands of Gulf Islands National Seashore at historic Fort Pickens. The FNST offers an outdoor experience that is unique to Florida. 

The Indian River Chapter (IRC) is one of 18 regional FTA chapters, and is responsible for building and maintaining more than 120 miles of trail, including the FNST, that wind through the Three Lakes, Bull Creek, Triple N, and Tosohatchee Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs), and through Forever Florida, an eco-tourism destination. The IRC is 48 years old, has more than 200 members, and through this meetup group offers frequent opportunities for its wider community to experience the outdoors. Activities include not only trail maintenance hikes, but also leisure hikes and camping, backpacking, sightseeing, swimming, and paddling. We offer full moon hikes, beach strolls, and lighthouse tours. An annual Easter Egg Hunt is a favorite for children of all ages. Our monthly chapter meetings feature presentations on long-distant hikes, skill-building exercises, and knowledge exchange. While there is no fee to join our meetup group and to participate in our outdoor activities or chapter meetings, your FTA membership and donations of time, equipment, and money support the FTA mission and are greatly appreciated. For more information or to join the FTA, please visit https://www.floridatrail.org/.