About us
Sandhill & Black Bear Chapters of the Florida Trail Association
Welcome to the Sandhill & Black Bear Chapters of the Florida Trail Association's Meetup page!
The Sandhill Chapter is a community of Florida Trail Association (FTA) members in the following counties: Alachua, Marion, Levy, and Gilchrist. The Black Bear Chapter members are in Putnam, Flagler and Volusia counties. Our activity leaders that plan hikes, provide outdoor skills workshops, trail maintenance, and community events in our region.
You are welcome to attend any activity sponsored by any FTA chapter.
To become a member of the Florida Trail Association, please visit https://floridatrail.org/
To read more about our chapter and visit our official social media accounts, please visit this link and scroll to Sandhill Chapter: https://floridatrail.org/our-chapters/
While most events are open to everyone, some events are only available to Florida Trail Association members. We encourage everyone to become members and support the nonprofit responsible for developing, maintaining, protecting, and promoting a network of hiking trails throughout the state.
Meet -Up is a way for us to advertise our events and strengthen our community.
If you have any questions, please message our administrators Leo Dugger or Ashley Kusel.
Happy hiking!
Upcoming events
1
3.5 Mile Hike at Johnson Pond
Johnson Pond Trailhead, 3042 E Withlacoochee Trail, Dunnellon, FL, USDate: Saturday, August 29, 2026
Time: 8:30 AM, Arrive by 8:15 to sign in
Location: Johnson Pond Trailhead, 3042 E Withlacoochee Trail, Dunnellon
Leader: Marsha JordanDescription: Join the Sandhill Chapter of the Florida Trail Association for a 3.5 mile hike. This easy hike leads you through a variety of habitats, including longleaf pine forest, scrub, and oak hammocks. Johnson Pond is located in the Two Mile Prairie Tract of Withlacoochee State Forest, which features an observation deck overlooking Johnson Pond. This trail is associated with the Florida Forest Service's Trailwalker Program.
Optional Breakfast/Lunch after at Red's Restaurant, 8411 N Carl G Rose Hwy, Hernando
Bathrooms: NO
Fees: None
General Information: Bring a hat, water, sunscreen, proper footwear, and snack if you like. Bug spray is always a good idea. Also have an emergency medical card (info) in your pack.
Dogs allowed: Well behaved dogs on leash are welcome
RSVP via Meet-UpFlorida Trail Association (FTA) Inc. is a volunteer membership organization with the primary purpose of developing, maintaining, promoting, and protecting the Florida Trail. Join FTA, just $40 per year - https://florida-trail-association.givecloud.co/join
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