Black Bear Wilderness Hike + Sanford Food Truck Fiesta

Two of Central Florida's best experiences in one day — a real Florida wilderness hike in the morning and one of Sanford's liveliest food events in the evening. All you have to do is show up.

We'll kick things off at 9:00 AM at Black Bear Wilderness Area, tackling a 7.1-mile loop that's anything but ordinary. This premier Central Florida trail winds through shaded oak hammocks, lush cypress swamps, and narrow creek crossings, with sweeping views of the St. Johns River floodplain opening up along the way. The terrain is varied and engaging, and the canopy keeps things cooler than you'd expect for a Florida October morning.

Keep your eyes open out there. We don't call it Black Bear for nothing. Wildlife sightings on this trail regularly include deer and wild turkeys, and yes, the occasional bear has been spotted in the area. It's the perfect chance to unplug, breathe in some real Florida wilderness, and earn what comes next.

Because after the trail we're heading straight to the Sanford Food Truck Fiesta in Historic Downtown Sanford. A rotating lineup of local food trucks, warm evening air, and good company. It's the ideal way to cap off a day spent in the woods. Come hungry. You'll have earned every bite. Oh, and bring your appetite because you're going to need it.

Difficulty
Moderate. The 7.1-mile loop involves uneven terrain, creek crossings, and some exposed sections. Participants should be comfortable hiking for 3 to 4 hours. Trekking poles are optional but helpful on the creek crossings.

What to Bring

• Water — 2 to 3 liters minimum for a 7-mile hike in Florida
• Energy-boosting snacks for the trail
• Bug repellent
• Sunscreen and a hat
• Sturdy hiking shoes or boots — uneven terrain is expected
• A change of clothes or shoes for the food truck event if desired

Questions? Reach out to Ned at 904-534-6964.

RELEASE OF LIABILITY & ASSUMPTION OF RISK AGREEMENT: By attending this event, you acknowledge that these events carry the risk of potential harm to myself up to and including the risk of injuries such as broken bones or muscle/tendon injuries, illness, disability, or death. These can be caused by capsizing or falling from a kayak or paddleboard; night paddling in low-visibility conditions; drowning; encounters with wildlife including but not limited to manatees, stingrays, jellyfish, or alligators; acts of nature such as inclement weather, lightning, or strong current; and my own or other's negligent or risky behaviors. This list is not exhaustive nor is it inclusive of all risks. In response, I release and hold harmless with respect to all injury, disability, death, or loss of property, whether caused by negligence or otherwise, the "Central Florida Adventure Seekers" meetup group's leadership as well as the designated leader of the event.