What we’re about
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Purpose of the Group:
The purpose of this group is to bring people together for relaxed, enjoyable hikes — mostly on Saturday mornings — designed for those of us who work Monday through Friday. Hikes will be relatively easy and within about an hour’s drive of Tampa.
Some events will focus on photography, exploring scenic locations at a comfortable pace with plenty of time to take pictures. Others will be more about the hike itself, for those looking to stretch their legs and enjoy nature.
Most hikes will be hosted on Saturdays, but we’re excited to welcome Dominick as a event organizer. He may occasionally plan events during the week, offering more flexibility and variety.
Who should attend:
Anyone who enjoys hiking and/or photography. This group welcomes hobbyists and nature lovers alike — you don’t need to be a professional photographer (and if you are, we just ask for patience with us amateurs!).
What we’ll do at our events:
Hike, take pictures, and enjoy each other’s company outdoors.
Upcoming events
6
Upper Tampa Bay Conservation Park - Bobcat, Otter, & Eagle Trails - Hiking Spree
Location not specified yetDate: Saturday, November 8th | Time: 3:00 PM (arrive by 2:50 PM) | Location: Upper Tampa Bay Conservation Park, 8001 Double Branch Rd., Tampa, FL 33635
Distance: ~2.3 miles
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Fee: $2 per vehicle (county park entry)
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/florida/otter-bobcat-and-eagle-loopJoin us for a relaxing afternoon hike on the Otter, Bobcat & Eagle Loop Trail at Upper Tampa Bay Conservation Park. This scenic loop winds through shady pine flatwoods and along the edges of coastal marshes — a great place to spot birds, crabs, and maybe even an otter or two! We’ll meet near the Nature Center parking area and start promptly at 3:00 PM. The trail is flat and easy to follow, with a few sandy sections and boardwalks. Expect the hike to take about 60–75 minutes, giving us plenty of daylight to enjoy the views.
What to Bring: Water, sun protection, bug spray, and comfortable closed-toe shoes (trails may be muddy after rain). Optional: camera or binoculars — this park is fantastic for wildlife spotting.
Parking: There’s a $2 per vehicle fee at the entrance kiosk. Please carpool if possible, as weekend afternoons can be busy.
We’ll finish by around 4:15 PM, just in time to enjoy the late afternoon light across the marsh. This is a great mid-level hike to stay active and enjoy the cooler fall weather!3 attendees
Let's be Hillsborough County TrailCATS!
Bell Creek Nature Preserve, 10940 McMullen Rd, Riverview, FL, US# Become a Hillsborough County TrailCAT!
Bell Creek Nature Preserve — 10940 McMullen Rd, Riverview, FL
Saturday, November 15 | 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Join us for a special volunteer day at Bell Creek Nature Preserve and become part of the Hillsborough County TrailCATs team! 🐾
TrailCATs (Conservation and Trail Stewards) are dedicated volunteers who help maintain and restore our county’s beautiful conservation parks and trails. From clearing brush and repairing boardwalks to marking trails and planting natives, TrailCATs help keep our wild spaces open and safe for everyone to enjoy.
This event is your opportunity to get started as an official TrailCAT volunteer and learn directly from Hillsborough County staff.### Event Details
- Date: Saturday, November 15
- Time: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Location: Bell Creek Nature Preserve, Riverview
- What to bring: Water, sun protection, gloves if you have them, and closed-toe shoes.
- Where to meet: Look for the TrailCATs group near the main parking area when you arrive.
### Volunteer Requirements
As this is a county-run volunteer program, all TrailCATs will need to complete required paperwork, including a background check, before officially joining.
This process ensures everyone’s safety and helps the county provide proper volunteer coverage. Staff will walk you through it — it’s quick and straightforward.### Important: Download the Avenza Mapping App
All TrailCAT volunteers use the Avenza Maps app to navigate county trails and record trail work locations.
Please download it before the event:### Can’t make it this time?
No problem! You can sign up to receive updates about future TrailCAT events, volunteer opportunities, and outdoor adventures here:
👉 TrailCAT Monthly Signup### 🌱 Learn More About TrailCATs
Want to see what TrailCATs do? Check out the official Hillsborough County page here:
🔗 https://hcfl.gov/residents/parks-and-leisure/conservation-lands/trail-cats10 attendees
Hole in the Fence Hike – Morris Bridge Trailhead Gator Bait, Indian, & Main Loop
Hole in the Fence Trailhead, 12629 Morris Bridge Rd, Thonotosassa, FL, USHole in the Fence Hike – Morris Bridge Trailhead - Black Friday
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/florida/gator-bait-indian-and-main-loop
https://hcfl.gov/locations/morris-bridge-conservation-park
📍 Location: 12629 Morris Bridge Rd, Thonotosassa, FL 33592 (Look for the sign)
🕘 Meet at: 9:00 AM
🥾 Distance: Approx. 3–4 miles (loop or out-and-back, depending on group preference)
🌿 Difficulty: Easy to moderate
💵 Fee: $2. Friday, November 28th, for a morning hike at the “Hole in the Fence” trailhead—one of the area’s best-kept secrets! This beautiful trail system winds through shaded forest, sandy stretches, and scenic wetlands. It’s a peaceful spot to get moving and reset before the weekend.Parking Info:
There is a designated parking lot at 12629 Morris Bridge Rd. A $2.00 day-use fee is required by Hillsborough County and can be paid by cash or card at the kiosk.
We’ll meet near the kiosk at 9:00 AM and head out shortly after. Please bring water, sun protection, bug spray, and sturdy shoes for sandy and uneven terrain.
This hike will be a steady-paced walk with time to enjoy the surroundings and regroup as needed.32 attendees
Edward Medard Conservation Park - Singing Bluffs Trail - Hiking Spree Series
Edward Medard Conservation Park, 6140 Turkey Creek Rd, Plant City, FL, USWhen: Saturday, December 13, 9:00 AM
Where: Edward Medard Conservation Park — 6140 Turkey Creek Rd, Plant City, FL 33567
Trail: Singing Bluffs (Hiking Spree trail) • ~1.4 miles • Class C (Primitive) • Rating 3 – Strenuous
(Optional trail) Marked as the Levee Trail adds 2.3 miles for a total of 3.9
https://www.alltrails.com/explore/poi/us/florida/plant-city/edward-medard-reservoir
Meeting Details:
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/florida/singing-bluffs-trail--2- Parking Tip: Try to park near the playground area if possible—it’s close and convenient.
- Meet at the trailhead for Singing Bluffs at 9:00 AM (arrive ~8:50 to get settled).
- We’ll start promptly and aim for 60-90 minutes including regrouping & photo stops.
What to bring:
Water, sun protection, bug spray, closed-toe shoes — terrain is sandy/uneven with some short climbs and roots.17 attendees
Past events
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