Triple Crown Event CROOM 3-DAY BACKPACKING

CALLING ALL INTERMEDIATE TO EXPERIENCED BACKPACKERS:

We had so much fun last year we are doing it again - Let's Go!!! Join us for the first event of the 2026 Triple Crown backpacking series. FTA members who complete all three events will win at-shirt plus bragging rights.

The 2nd event in the series is scheduled for 10/23/26 through an area of the Ocala National Forest, route TBD.

The 3rd and final event of the series is scheduled for 1/15/27 in the Citrus tract of the Withlacoochee State Forest, route TBD.

IMPORTANT PLEASE READ: This trip is limited to 20 total. If you RSVP, you will have to answer 3 screening questions and you will be placed on the waiting list. Activity leaders will screen the waitlist in order of joining and move you to the "Going" list assuming you clear screening. A registration fee of 15.00 is due to attend this event. The fee will be collected outside of Meetup. Though not required for registering, preference may be given to dues-paying members of the Florida Trail Association. You can join the FTA at Contribute – Florida Trail Association. Please read the rest of the material below!

WHAT: 3 days and 2 nights of backpacking and primitive camping in the Croom Tract in Withlacoochee State Forest. 26 miles total hiking. There will be cached water at each campsite and, and some trail magic along the way.

DAY 1 - 10 miles counter-clockwise on the B-C, B and A-B loops to Primitive Camp Zone West.

DAY 2 - 9 miles from PCZ West on the B and C loops to the Primitive Camp Zone East.

DAY 3 - 7 miles on the A loop back to trailhead.

WHEN: Friday, March 6, 2026, at 8AM SHARP. Park and meet at the Tucker Hill Day Use Area. Pack and gear checks, orientation and how ya doin's, then hit the trail at 8:30AM. To be early is to be on time, to be on time is to be late, and to be late is to be left behind. You will need to purchase 3-days of day use parking at https://floridastateforests.reserveamerica.com/posProductDetails.do?id=5601&contractCode=FLFS

WHO: You have some experience doing a fully self-supported overnight backpacking trip and you have the necessary gear and know how to use it. Necessary gear means, shelter, food, water, cooking, backcountry hygiene (you've purposely pooped in the woods...responsibly), rain protection, sleep gear and clothes for all weather conditions.

WARNINGS: Honestly assess your skill level, gear and fitness for this trip. Though rescue is possible, the shame will be long-lasting. Wear something orange, it's hunting season in the forest. Hunting is not permitted near trails, but, well, you know the locals... Weather can be unpredictable, from hot to cold, dry to wet and nights can get downright chilly. Sleeping cold all night is no fun. You must sign an assumption of risk at the orientation.