About us
We are the North Florida Trailblazers, the local chapter of the Florida Trail Association (FTA). Our main purpose is to build and maintain sections of the Florida Trail (FT) in our chapter's area. Sections are located in the Osceola National Forest, along the Suwannee River near White Springs, Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park and Camp Blanding. When we are not working on the FT, we organize day hikes, backpacking, paddling, and other outdoor activities. We have chapter meetings, social events and other activities to promote hiking. We are using Meetup to reach people interested in hiking.
The FT, a 1300 mile trail that runs the length of Florida, is part of the National Scenic Trails system (includes the AT and the Continental Divide, for example). The FT is developed, maintained, protected and promoted by the FTA and its public and private partners.
Check out this short video to learn more about the FT: Explore the Florida Trail - YouTube
We are not a social networking or dating group. We are here to support and maintain the FT and to promote hiking in general. But if you enjoy hiking and outdoors activities, you will certainly meet people with shared interests. Advertising to or within the group is not allowed.
RSVPs are important so that we may properly plan for you and for the group. If your ability to attend changes, please change your RSVP as soon as you know so that your spot can be given to others especially on our limited attendance events. If you have to change your RSVP at the last minute, please message your event leader so that you are not marked as a "No Show." Three No Shows can result in the loss of your membership in the Meetup group.
If you request to join us, please make sure your profile includes your name and a recent photo of yourself so we can recognize you at our events. We do require participants at our events to put their name on our sign-in sheet/liability waiver.
Our members receive many benefits, including automatic membership in a local chapter in your area, which holds its own meetings and activities and sends out a newsletter pertinent to what’s going on in your area; a subscription to the Footprint magazine; trail maintenance training workshops, including chainsaw certification; participation in Volunteer Work Parties, our team-building volunteer trail crews that tackle large projects like building bridges and boardwalks; a window decal and logo patch; opportunity to participate on decision-making committees covering major trail issues; and voting privileges. Memberships start at $35 for an individual or $50 for a family. http://ftashop.floridatrail.org/individual-... <br>
NOTE: Registration on this Meetup does not make you a member of the FTA. Some of our events will be offered only to FTA members. Go to www.floridatrail.org to join the FTA and learn more about our organization.
Upcoming events
10
Florida Trail Fest!
Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park, 11016 Lillian Saunders Drive/ US HWY 41, White Springs, FL, US***This event is not hosted by the North FL Trailblazers. You will need to go to the FTA website to register.***
Celebrate the Florida Trail with a Weekend of Trails, Tunes & Togetherness
Get ready for a weekend you won’t forget! Florida Trail FEST 2026 is happening March 6–8, 2026, at Stephen Foster Folk Culture State Park in White Springs, FL.
This free event brings together hikers, outdoor enthusiasts, and adventurers from across Florida to celebrate our state’s 1,500-mile National Scenic Trail.
Admission is FREE, but registration is required! Camping rates cover the entire weekend and are available on a first-come, first-served basis — once they’re gone, they’re gone!
Get all the details and secure your spot now: floridatrail.org/fest
23 attendees
Mid Week Hike in Jennings State Forest
Dunn's Farm Trailhead, 1335 Long Horn Rd, Middleburg, FL 32068, Middleburg, FL, USWe will be hiking in Jennings State Forest on some trails that have quickly become some of my favorite!
We will meet at the Dunn's Farm Trailhead and hike out on the Crosscut trail. This will take us to the Pioneer Trail where we will go north to the northern terminus. From that area we will back track on the Pioneer Trail and pass the Crosscut to get to the Dunn's Farm trail and head back to our cars. This will be a long hike around 8 to 9 miles. The Crosscut and Dunn's farm trail are flat, but the Pioneer trail is rocky, with roots, and a few ups and downs that are not typical for Florida hiking. This is not a beginner’s hike. You will need the correct hiking shoes, treking poles, and water. Also bring snacks as we will take breaks along the way.
If you have any questions please reach out!
Information on Jennings State Forest
Information on the FTA
Information on the North FL Trailblazers
15 attendees
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