Doris Leeper West Loop ( 5.5 miles + )

HIKE LEADER: Gary W. ( 248 943 5240 cell)

DETAILS:
This scenic preserve is on 1,637 acres in New Smyrna Beach/Port Orange. As you head to the beginning of the trail you will have a choice to go left or right. We will be heading left on the newer, well maintained west loop. Expect a distance of 5.5+ miles to complete the loop! This path is very popular with the mountain bikers, so we will be on the lookout for them. The trail is very scenic and includes walking through the woods, has many winding curves, switch backs, and some elevation changes. The trails are shaded nicely, so you don't have to worry about sun exposure as much. You might want to take some bug spray with you, just in case. Of greater importance, with the frequent rains that we have had recently, it is important to know that this hike is on high elevation, so you will not have to worry about walking through mud!!!

Bring snacks and water, and maybe lunch. Some of us might decide to have lunch afterwards TBD,

CARPOOL/CARAVAN OPPORTUNITY: If you wish to accompany me either by carpool or follow us in a caravan, we will be meeting at 8:30 AM at Lowes on I-95 and SR-50 in Titusville on the northside. My green Subaru will be parked on the southeast quadrant of the main parking lot. Email me at gwasserm at gmail.com if you are planning to meet me there, so that I may expect you.

DIRECTIONS TO TRAIL HEAD: take I-95 North to the New Smyrna Beach/ Deland exit (Hwy 44). Take Hwy 44 East about half a mile to Sugar Mill Drive. Turn left (North) on Sugar Mill and drive about a mile and a half to Pioneer Trail. Turn left (West) on Pioneer Trail for about 1.75 miles to Turnbull Bay Road. Take Turnbull a short way to Martins Dairy Road. Turn left on Martins Dairy and drive to end of the unpaved road. (about a mile) The trailhead is on the West side of the parking lot where there is a large kiosk with trail maps and info.