Flint Pen Strand → Bird Rookery Loop (10-Mile Endurance Hike)
Details
BIG 10 Mile Hike
🚨This is a longer, hotter hike and better suited for those familiar with my group’s pace. You must have participated in a previous hike to join🚨
Please read all the details prior to signing up.
We’re heading out for a longer-distance hike designed for those comfortable going the distance. We’ll keep a steady pace and cover approximately 10 miles total.
We will meet in the LAKE parking lot at Flint Pen, then begin our route looping through the lake area before connecting to the Purple Trail & maybe a Trail less traveled. From there, we’ll head into Flint Pen Strand, continuing on to Bird Rookery, where we’ll spend about 4 miles exploring the rookery loop before heading back.
Important Parking & Directions:
• Look for the sign that says “LAKES parking”
• Do not rely on GPS alone
• Enter CREW Flint Pen (C-R-E-W) into your navigation for best results
About the Trail:
Flint Pen Strand offers a mix of pine flatwoods, cypress, and seasonal wetlands, giving us a good chance to spot birds, wildlife, and classic Southwest Florida terrain. Should be a dry hike.
The Bird Rookery is known for its abundant wildlife. Prepare to see anhingas, ibis, egrets, cormorants, and possibly otters and gators. Expect a mix of sun and shade, with some exposed sections.
Start Time:
We are starting earlier than usual!
Meet: 8:00 AM sharp in the LAKE parking lot at Flint Pen
(If you arrive more than 10 minutes late, you may not be able to catch up with the group.)
What to Bring:
• Plenty of water (32 oz minimum, more recommended)
• Sun protection (hat or visor, sunscreen)
• Bug repellent
• Small snacks for the trail
• Optional: change of shoes for after
Optional Post-Hike Lunch:
We’ll head over to Founders Square after the hike. There are several restaurants to choose from, so we can decide as a group.
This hike is best suited for those who regularly hike longer distances iand can maintain a consistent pace.