Crack of Dawn Green Swamp ~7 mile hot hike (McNeil Entrance Gate)

Let's show Green Swamp West a little love. We will hike for about 6.5 miles total, in and back, along the Florida National Scenic Trail. Plan for the trail to be wet and wild in many places. So wet boots and bush whacking may be on the agenda. I am asking that hikers leave their dogs at home since the conditions are unknown (I'm not doing a prehike). I also have never led on this trail but I have been there with other leaders and I will be prepared.

While this area is part of the Green Swamp, it is primarily a forest of pines and oaks rather than a constant swamp. So we will have some shade but plan for lots of sun. The trail we are planning to take is the FNST but we may take other trails that intersect if necessary. Some of these trails are multipurpose so we may have to share them with bikes and horses. There is no day use fee and no bathrooms that I know of. Learn more about the park at: https://floridahikes.com/florida-trail-green-swamp-west/.

This hike is considered to be moderately difficult because of the temps, distance, and the pace we will keep. This hike is only for those who have similar recent experience. This is a rain or shine hike, unless there is a threat of a downpour or thunder and lightning.

On the day of the hike, please meet me in the parking lot at 7:30 am. We will start hiking at 7:40.

You will need at least 2.5 liters of water, snacks, bug spray, sunscreen, a hat, hikers, and anything else you deem necessary for your comfort. A solar umbrella brings the heat down at least 10 degrees. You may want to bring a ground cloth to sit on during the snack break.

My number on the day of the hike is 813-713-2492.

I am asking that everyone signs up (no guests) so everyone can agree to the waiver and agree to the following conditions:

ASSUMPTION OF RISK

YOUR ATTENDANCE AT A "SUNCOAST OUTDOORS " SPONSORED EVENT IS YOUR EXPRESS ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF UNDERSTANDING AND UNCONDITIONAL ACCEPTANCE OF FULL PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY AND LIABILITY FOR ALL ASSOCIATED RISKS.

Possible risks from participation include, but are not limited to: injury from a trip and fall, venomous snakes, stinging insects, venomous spiders, wildlife encounters, heat stroke, dehydration, hypothermia, noxious vegetation, weather related injury, insect or airborne transmissible virus and disease, smoke inhalation, wildfire, and falling trees.

I am not a professional guide, just a volunteer for the group.

Any questions or concerns, please comment below.

Thanks. See you there!!