Melon Hike #1 - Hog Island to Iron Bridge (w/ Optional Hog Island Camping)

WHAT: It's SufferFest time! Hike out and back from Hog Island Trailhead to Iron Bridge approx. 9 miles, enjoy a mid-hike watermelon refresher at the Iron Bridge. Optional camping Friday and Saturday nights at Hog Island Campground with river swimming, communal dinner, campfire, stargazing, connecting with nature. Comment below or Direct message me on Meetup for camping details if you want to camp with us.

WHEN: Saturday 8:30AM for sign-in and "how ya' doins;" hit the trail at 8:45AM sharp. Remember, early is on time, on time is late, and late is left behind.

WHERE: The trailhead is in the Hog Island day use area. Go through the entrance gate and the trailhead and parking area will be about a quarter mile on the left. Melon refresher will be at the Iron Bridge turnaround point. For anyone who wants to camp overnight, I've reserved a large site at rustic Hog Island Campground or, if you want your own, there is plenty of availability on Reserve America. Search for "Hog Island Campground" in Withlacoochee State Forest. This rustic campground has baths and showers, water, but no electric and is a short walk from the trailhead. There is river access as well for anyone wanting to take a swim or kayak.

WHO: It's summer in Florida. Hot, humid and possibly muddy at times. Please carefully assess your fitness for up to 9 miles of hard, hot hiking. Though rescue is feasible, the shame will be long-lasting, lol.

BRING: Hat, sunglasses, bug spray, sunscreen, 2 liters of water, snack, a good attitude, and a desire for moderate suffering. If you want to camp Friday and/or Saturday night, don't forget your tent or car camping rig!

ASSUMPTION OF RISK: You assume all risks for this event. If you forage, you do so at your own risk. If you eat something you shouldn't have and wind up on a journey to center of your mind, that's on you. All participants will be required to sign FTA's assumption of risk statement which can be found at [FTA-Assumption-of-Risk-March-30th-2022.pdf (floridatrail.org)](https://floridatrail.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/FTA-Assumption-of-Risk-March-30th-2022.pdf).

Hope to see you there!