Bravely Venturing: My Epic Thru-Hike of the Florida Trail – Planning
Are you ready for an adventure of a lifetime? Look no further than the Florida Trail, a 1,100-mile trek that will test your limits and leave you with memories to last a lifetime. I recently set out on this challenging journey and I am here to share my experiences and insights with you. From the swamps of the Everglades to the rolling hills of the Panhandle, the Florida Trail offers a diverse and breathtaking landscape that is sure to leave you in awe. Join me as I take you on a journey through the heart of Florida and discover the beauty and challenges of thru-hiking the Florida Trail.
Table of Contents
The Planning Process
To take on a thru-hike, you need to do research before setting off on the trail. My advice and experience are based on my thru-hike of the Florida Trail, where I was part of the class of 2022 End-to-End Hikers. I’m proud to be the 344th hiker to complete the trail in its entirety. My trail name is SoundFX.
Please check out my other post about starting to hike the Florida Trail. Mud, Swamp, and Tears -1,100-Mile Thru-Hike On The Florida Trail
Popular Long-distance Trails
This information can be used to hike other long-distance trails as well. Here are some of the popular long-distance trails you can choose for your thru-hike.
- Appalachian Trail in the United States – 2,200 mi (3,540 km)
- Pacific Crest Trail in the United States – 2,653 mi (4,270 km)
- Continental Divide Trail in the United States – 3,028 mi (4,873 km)
- The Florida Trail in the United States – 1,500 mi (2,400 km)
- Te Araroa Trail in New Zealand – 1,864 mi (3,000 km)
- Great Himalaya Trail in Nepal – 2,800 mi (4,500 km)
- Camino Francés in France and Spain 490 mi (790 km)
Best Date and Season For Kickoff On Trail
Once you choose a long-distance trail, the next step is to decide on the starting time of year, which should be based on the starting location on the trail.
Each trail has a popular kickoff date. For example, the Florida Trail’s popular start date is the beginning of January for Northbound and the end of December for Southbound.
The most common direction to hike the Florida Trail is Northbound.
If you choose to go NOBO (northbound), the Florida Trail holds an annual Kickoff party. For the past two years, it’s been held at the Trail Lakes Campground near Big Cypress. It’s a great opportunity to meet other thru-hikers and possible trail angels, and is usually held in the first week of January. Information about the event is available on the Florida Trail Hikers Facebook group. At the kickoff, you can also meet fellow thru-hikers to hike Big Cypress with and get rides to the terminus from the campground from trail angels.
When planning a thru-hike, it’s important to consider the season and terrain, as the timing of your hike can affect the gear you need and the dangers you face. For example, the wrong time of year could lead to water scarcity and dehydration, even in seemingly water-rich environments like Florida. During my thru-hike of the Florida Trail, I faced moments where finding water was a challenge.
Permits and Permissions
Before starting a thru-hike of the Florida Trail, you need to obtain certain permits. These permits should be completed at least 30 days prior to your hike.
You can find the required documents and more information about thru-hiking on the Florida Trail Association website by accessing the Florida Trail Thru-Hiker Packet.
Join the Florida Trail Association
To hike the Florida Trail, you need to first join the Florida Trail Association and carry your membership card while on the trail. Some private landowners only allow Florida Trail Association members to hike on their property. Membership costs $35 (as of 2023) and can be obtained online or by calling 1-877-HIKE-FLA or 352-378-8823.
Sign the Release for Big Cypress Seminole Indian Reservation
In addition to joining the Florida Trail Association, you also need to sign a release for the Big Cypress Seminole Indian Reservation at least 30 days before your hike. The release absolves the reservation of any liability for any incidents that may occur during your hike through their land.
1. Print the “General Release and Covenant Not To Sue”.
2. Read, sign, and have the form notarized.
Visit the online permit request form at
https://bit.ly/FTSeminole
3. Complete the form and upload a copy of your notarized release.
No news is good news, you should not expect to hear back from the Reservation unless there was a problem with your application.
4. Carry a copy of your completed form printed or digitally with you through the Reservation. Be prepared to show it to law enforcement if asked.
The address to mail your completed permit:
SEMINOLE TRIBE OF FLORIDA
Attn: Real Estate Services, Room #104
6300 Stirling Road
Hollywood, FL 33024-2198
Free Camping Permits SFWMD
Before beginning your thru-hike on the Florida Trail, you must obtain free camping permits from the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD). To obtain a Special Use License, you’ll need to create an account on the SFWMD website. Note that the new form requires one-time registration and allows users to view or change future reservations, while also providing added security. The permits can also be obtained on the trail as long as you have reliable service.
Campsites are as follows:
1. Yates Marsh
2. Chandler Slough
3. Micco Landing
4. Fort Basinger
5. Istokpoga Canal
6. Hickory Hammock
7. Mosquito Hammock
8. KICCO
9. Rattlesnake Hammock
Eglin Air Force Base
As you venture along the Florida Trail, you will come across portions of Eglin Air Force Base, a highly active military installation.
Before reaching out to the Jackson Guard for a permit, you must first complete the Surveys & Safety Briefs available on the isportsman website. This process includes watching a short video and passing a test, which the Jackson Guard will verify.
Additionally, it is crucial for hikers to regularly consult the Public Access Map (PAM) for daily mission closures. For more information, please visit www.eglin.isportsman.net/FloridaTrail.aspx.
For thru-hikers, whose journey begins more than 50 miles outside of Eglin’s boundaries, obtaining special permitting from Jackson Guard by calling (850-882-4165 or 4166) is necessary. Fortunately, the FTA has established an agreement with the base to waive all fees for thru-hikers, as long as you make the call 3 days prior to reaching the base.
St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge
In order to camp at St. Mark’s National Wildlife Refuge, a permit is mandatory for each campsite utilized. This privilege is exclusively granted to hikers who plan to traverse the entire length of the Refuge. Before embarking on your journey, it is crucial to secure a written permit. To request an overnight use permit, simply email saintmarks@fws.gov, who will respond with the necessary form to fill out and return via email or mail. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to call (850) 925-6121.
Or print the permit here.
St Mark’s National Wildlife Refuge (PO Box 68, St Marks, FL 32355)
It is important to note that St Mark’s is the only National Wildlife Refuge that allows camping for hikers, and this privilege is extended solely to those undertaking a thru or section hike of the Florida Trail. Failing to obtain a permit could put future hikers’ ability to camp at risk.
Thru-Hiking Gear
The gear selection for your thru-hike is a highly personal matter, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Every hiker has different needs and preferences, and this will be reflected in their gear choices.
It’s important to remember that when it comes to gear, opinions can vary widely. Experienced thru-hikers may have strong opinions on what gear works best, but there is no universal truth.
When making your gear choices, consider the suggestions of other hikers, but keep in mind that what works for them may not work for you.
When selecting gear, it’s helpful to divide it into categories. These categories typically include the 10 essential items that every hiker should have on the trail. Remember that gear is an ever-evolving aspect of thru-hiking, and what you believe you need will change over time as you gain experience.
10 Essential Items
1. Backpack: A backpack is necessary to carry all of your gear and supplies on the trail. Look for one that is comfortable to wear and has enough capacity for your needs. Additionally, consider body-specific options such as male or female designs. Furthermore, ultra-lightweight backpacks are becoming popular among long-distance hikers, though they tend to be more expensive due to the use of advanced, ultralight fabrics.
Top Pick: Osprey Aura AG backpack – I have an immense fondness for this pack due to its exceptional comfort and carrying ability. Although it might weigh a bit more than some other packs due to its advanced suspension system, I believe the added comfort it provides is well worth the extra weight. With this pack, I never had to deal with a sweaty back or skin irritation from rubbing. It truly carried weight like a dream.
2. Tent: When selecting a tent for your thru-hike, it’s important to find a shelter that provides protection from the elements and a comfortable place to rest. Opt for a lightweight and easy-to-assemble tent, such as those made from cutting-edge material, Dyneema, or with components made from carbon fibers to reduce weight. The variety of tent styles available is vast, including free-standing, staking-out, trekking pole-supported, single-person, two-person, double-walled, and nylon seam-sealed options. If you’re interested in hammock camping, this could be an alternative option for you. The key is to choose the style that best suits your needs and preferences.
Top Pick: Tarptent StratoSpire Li – The ultra-lightweight Tarptent StratoSpire Li tent fits the bill, with its double-walled design, dual vestibules, and dual entry, all made from durable Dyneema material. I set it up using trekking poles and it only weighs 27 ounces. The added bonus of being able to store my gear inside the tent at night helped keep all my gear dry and out of the elements.
3. Sleeping bag: A sleeping bag is a crucial piece of gear for staying warm at night during your thru-hike. When selecting a sleeping bag, it’s important to consider the temperature ratings, specifically looking for one that is rated for the conditions you expect to face on your hike. The most reliable temperature ratings come from standardized laboratory tests, such as those indicated by EN (European Norm) or ISO (International Standards Organization) ratings. These tests produce a range of temperature ratings for each sleeping bag, with two specific temperature ratings within that range that are clearly indicated.
Comfort rating – which indicates the temperature at which a cold sleeper might feel comfortable. This is the temperature rating brands use on women’s bags.
Lower limit rating – (which is always lower than the comfort rating) indicates the temperature at which a warm sleeper might still feel comfortable. This is the temperature rating brands use on men’s bags.
Top Pick: Sea to Summit Flame Ultralight 15F Sleeping Bag – My personal favorite sleeping bag is the Sea to Summit Flame Ultralight 15F Sleeping Bag. This women-specific sleeping bag is made with 850+ fill-power Premium Goose UltraDry Down and is incredibly lightweight at just 1 pound 7 ounces. I found it to be incredibly warm, even when faced with drastic temperature changes on the trail, including some nights where temperatures dropped into the low 20s. This sleeping bag was well worth the investment for me.
4. Sleeping pad: A sleeping pad is a must-have for a comfortable night’s sleep on the trail. It provides insulation and cushioning to protect you from the cold ground. When selecting a sleeping pad, consider the R-value, which ranges from 1.0 (suitable for warm weather) to 5.5+ (for use in extreme cold conditions). The higher the R-value, the more insulated the pad will be, ensuring a warm and comfortable night’s sleep.
Top Pick: Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite Sleeping Pad – The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite Sleeping Pad is one of my personal favorites for thru-hiking. This sleeping pad is easy to inflate and deflate, and it comes with a pump sack for quick inflation. With an R-Value of 4.2, it is perfect for cold weather and provides ample insulation from the ground temperature. The lightweight design, at only 12oz, makes it a great option for thru-hiking.
5. Stove: To ensure a comfortable and efficient camping experience, it is important to choose a lightweight and fuel-efficient stove option. To help you make an informed decision, I highly recommend checking out my other blog post, What Camping Stove Should I Buy? which provides a comprehensive overview of the different types of camping stoves. However, it is worth noting that there may be some challenges along the trail in finding fuel for your stove as there are very few stores that sell fuel along the way.
Top Pick: NONE – That’s right… you heard me… After trying the IsoPro stove, I realized it wasn’t practical for me. The fatigue I experienced on the trail made it challenging to use, especially after a long day of hiking. By the end of the day, all I wanted to do was quickly eat and go to bed. As a result, I opted for cold soaking instead, which proved to be a more suitable method for me. However, I acknowledge that this approach is not for everyone and may require a certain level of determination and endurance. But for me, it worked and allowed me to save weight on my journey.
6. Clothing: Clothing should be made from moisture-wicking and quick-drying materials to ensure maximum comfort during your hike. When it comes to the Florida Trail, socks are perhaps the most critical piece of clothing. With constant exposure to water and humidity, it is common for your feet to remain damp, which can lead to the formation of blisters. To combat this issue, it’s advisable to carry several pairs of socks (at least 3 to 4) to change as needed. Moreover, don’t forget to bring a hat for sun protection, which is equally important in hot and sunny conditions. Additionally, it’s a good idea to bring a waterproof and breathable rain jacket, as well as lightweight and durable pants to protect against the elements. Lastly, bring a pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays, and a bandana or neck gaiter to keep the sun and bugs at bay.
Top Pick: Columbia Womens PFG Tamiami II UPF 40 Long Sleeve Shirt – I wore this long-sleeve, quick-dry top from Columbia. It offered protection from the harsh Florida sun. The sleeves also roll up with tab holders for when I wanted to cool off. Duluth Trading Womens AKHG Roadless Ultimate Pants – Wonderful quick-drying, flexible when moving, durable double-weave, built-in boot hooks, with 5 pockets with zippers. Duluth Women’s Down Right Jacket – This was the perfect puffy jacket for the trail. It was easy to stuff down in my pack when not in use. It kept me toasty warm on cold nights and early mornings. Darn Tough Women’s Hiker Boot Midweight Hiking Sock – Merino Wool is a must-have when hiking. They kept my feet funk-free.
7. Footwear: It is crucial to invest in a comfortable and durable pair of shoes for your thru-hike. Furthermore, it’s wise to invest in a quality pair of insoles as well. According to my podiatrist, the insoles that come with shoes usually lack support and can cause problems after many hours of hiking.
Top Pick: Altra Lone Peak – With the features of a zero drop and wide toe box, these shoes allowed for natural walking and prevented discomfort during road walks on the Florida Trail. Additionally, the claw grip bottom provided excellent traction on different surfaces, making it a crucial aspect in the completion of the hike. SOLE Active Medium Insole – Designed to reduce plantar fascia strain, promote natural foot alignment and feature a heat-moldable custom fit, making them a game changer for reduced pain and discomfort while thru-hiking.
8. Navigation tools & Emergency Assistance: A map and compass, or GPS device, will be necessary to navigate on the trail. This can also be your cell phone. There are some great apps that are absolutely necessary when hiking the Florida Trail. Additionally, having a paper map as a backup is also recommended. Before starting your hike, it is important to familiarize yourself with the use of the map, compass, or GPS device, as well as familiarize yourself with the trail, the terrain, and the potential hazards along the way. Remember, technology can fail, so always be prepared with a backup plan.
Top Pick: Garmin inReach Mini – A crucial piece of gear for any hiker on the Florida Trail. With its ability to provide communication and navigation even in areas with no cell phone reception, it offers peace of mind and ensures safety. FarOut Phone App The Florida Trail – It is a must-have tool for navigation on the Florida Trail, especially in this digital age. It’s a great option as it can be used in airplane mode or without cell phone reception. With the app, I was able to confidently stay on track even when the trail and blazes became questionable. Florida Trail Guide Book – The Florida Trail Guide Book was a valuable resource in planning my hike and served as a reliable backup during my thru-hike.
9. First aid kit: Having a first aid kit is critical for any hiker’s peace of mind, in case of unexpected injuries. It’s important to be prepared by either purchasing a pre-made kit or creating your own custom kit, to ensure you have all the necessary items for quick and effective treatment.
Top Pick: Made my own – I had the basics in my first aid kit. But I also included items that I used frequently. You don’t need to overdo your first aid kit, the basics are sufficient. I tend to have a lot of foot problems on the trail. Because of this, I carry extra blister treatments and moleskin. My kit included: Adhesive tape, elastic wrap bandages, Band-Aids in several sizes, “butterfly” bandages, tweezers, a safety pin, antibiotic ointment, hand sanitizer, moleskin, blister treatment, antacid tablets, “lots of” Ibuprofen / other pain-relief medication, Aspirin (primarily for response to a heart attack), Benadryl (for allergic reactions), multi-tool (Leatherman with scissors), sunscreen, Sawyer Picaridin insect repellent
10. Water treatment: A water filter or purification tablets are necessary to ensure you have safe drinking water while on the trail.
Top Pick: Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter System – This is a popular and lightweight option, as it removes particles and makes the water safe to drink. However, it’s always a good idea to have backup purification tablets on hand, in case of any unexpected issues with the filtration system. I carried two tablets on the trail.
Additional Thru-Hiking Must Haves
Bear Bag: This is a must-have item for your Florida Trail hike. The entire state of Florida has bear activity. Make sure you take precautions and always hang your food and smelly items at night.
Top Pick: Zpacks Bear Bagging Kit – This bag is ultralightweight and held up to the elements like rain. It came with a 50-foot Z-Line cord and a rock sack.
Flashlight: Having a flashlight can be extremely helpful in case of an emergency or if you need to set up camp in the dark. Make sure you bring extra batteries or a backup light source.
Top Pick: PETZL Headlamp – This headlamp was great. It was wonderful on the trail for night hikes and at camp. The headlamp offers 900 lumens of brightness yet weighs only 100 g. It’s also rechargeable, making it perfect for months on the trail.
Backcountry Poop Kit: The “Leave No Trace” principle is a set of guidelines aimed at reducing human impact on the natural environment. The Seven Principles of Leave No Trace cover topics such as minimizing impact on the landscape, respecting wildlife, and proper waste disposal, to ensure responsible and sustainable outdoor recreation.
Top Pick: My poop kit included a lightweight shovel, toilet paper, and hand sanitizer. I put all these items in a plastic ziplock bag and when nature called I dug a cathole 6 to 8 inches deep, at least 200 feet from water, camp, and trails.
Luxury Items
I think it is important to have a few “luxury items” on the trail. Those few creature comforts really help get you through the day. Here is a list of the few items I decided to bring with me.
- Trekking Poles
- Inflatable Pillow
- Hiking Journal & Pen (find a small lightweight option)
- Zpacks Lotus Ultralight Umbrella
- Dirty Girl Gaiters (helped keep the muck and sand out of my shoes)
- Quickdry Towel (small handtowel)
- Fanny Pack – Zpacks Front Utility Pack
- Headnet (mosquito bug net)
- Wet Wipes (for cleaning the body and #2)
- Sandals or Camp Shoes
- Gossamer Gear Pack Liner
Transportation
One important aspect of preparing for your Florida Trail thru-hike is making arrangements for transportation to either the Southern or Northern Terminus. Although both termini offer unique challenges, getting to the Southern Terminus can be especially difficult and may require extra planning.
Southern Terminus – Big Cypress Oasis Visitors Center
The Southern Terminus of the trail can be found in the heart of the Everglades, specifically at the Big Cypress Oasis Visitors Center. It is situated roughly 50 miles away from Miami, which takes around an hour and 15 minutes to drive to.
Trail Angel Shuttle: Starting my thru-hike on the Florida Trail I chose NOBO. I secured a ride from Miami using Facebook. Joining multiple Florida Trail groups on the platform led me to numerous volunteers who were eager to provide trail magic, making Facebook a great option for securing a ride.
Facebook Groups that are active as of (Jan 2023)
- Florida Trail Hikers
- Florida Trail Trail Angels
- FTThruHike 2023 Florida Trail
If you are unable to find a ride through the Facebook page there are a few other options to consider.
Ride-sharing (Uber): Getting an Uber ride from Miami or Naples could be possible, but the cost will be high. Unfortunately, finding a ride-share from Big Cypress, where the Southern Terminus is located, is not feasible as it is too remote from any town or city where drivers might be present. Hence, it is essential to arrange for a ride in advance if you are planning to end your hike at the Southern Terminus.
Hitchhiking: Hitchhiking is another option, but keep in mind that it is illegal in Florida, and should only be used as a last resort.
Northern Terminus – Fort Pickens
The Northern Terminus is easier to get to and leave from. Here you have a few options to choose from.
Ride-sharing (Uber): In 2022, I completed a flip-flop hike on the Florida Trail. To make it convenient, I flew into Pensacola Beach airport and took an Uber to Fort Pickens. However, I needed to keep in mind the difference in fees for entering Fort Pickens on foot versus by car. I had my Uber driver drop me off just before the National Park Service entrance booth.
Gulf Islands National Seashore Fees:
Per person (pedestrian, cyclist, etc. 1-7 days) $15
Motorcycle (1-7 days) $20
Vehicle (1-7 days) $25
Park Annual Pass $45
Bus: At Pensacola Beach you can pick up a current bus schedule from the Visitor Center located near the intersection of Via De Luna Dr and Ft. Pickens Rd. 7 Casino Beach Boardwalk, Pensacola Beach, FL 32561. Their number is 850-932-1500. The local bus can take you to either the Pensacola Greyhound station or Pensacola International Airport, both located on the mainland.
Budgeting for the Florida Trail
Key Expenses:
When budgeting for the Florida Trail, there are several key expenses you’ll need to plan for, including:
- Gear: $1,500-$3,000 – This includes everything from your backpack and sleeping bag to your hiking boots and clothing. While you can save money by purchasing used gear or renting gear, it’s important to invest in high-quality, durable equipment that will last the entire hike. If you have no gear for the hike, on average, most thru-hikers can expect to spend between $1,500 to $3,000 on gear for the trail.
- Food and water: $10-$15 Per Day – You’ll need to budget for food and water while on the trail. Plan to spend about $10-15 per day on food, depending on your preferences. If you decide to mail yourself resupply boxes along the way you will need to account for those costs, flat rate boxes through USPS range between $17-$25.
- Transportation: You’ll need to budget for transportation to and from the trailhead, as well as any resupply points along the way. Uber to the Nothern Terminus is around $40 from the airport.
- Florida Trail Association membership: $35 – This is required to hike the Florida Trail in its entirety. Membership is paid yearly. The fee is $35.00.
- Accommodations: $34-$150 Per Night – Some hikers choose to stay in hotels or hostels during their thru-hike, while others choose to camp along the way. Be sure to budget for whichever option you choose. On average you should budget for staying at a hotel about once a week. Fees range on average from $70-$150 a night. There are also some campsites that require payment. They are usually either the National Forest Preserve or Florida State Parks. They are around $34 a night with power and a bathhouse.
- Entrance Fees: Throughout the Florida Trail you will have to pay entrance fees for some of the areas you pass through.
- Fort Pickens at the Nothern Terminus is $15 per person pedestrian.
- Goldhead Branch State Park is $2 for pedestrians plus $5 for primitive camping.
- Lake Kissimmee State Park is $2 for pedestrians plus $5 for primitive camping.
Training
Training for a thru-hike on the Florida Trail requires a combination of physical and mental preparation. Here are some tips to help you get ready for your journey:
- Build your endurance: To improve your endurance, start by gradually increasing the distance and difficulty of your hikes. Aim to hike at least 10-15 miles per week, and complement your hikes with gym sessions that include resistance training on the elliptical trainer. This will help strengthen the muscles you’ll use during hikes, especially when navigating through water in the swamp.
- Strengthen your core: Having a strong core will help you maintain good posture and balance on the trail. Incorporate exercises such as planks, sit-ups, and leg raises into your training routine.
- Improve your balance: The Florida Trail can have uneven terrain, so practicing your balance can help you feel more confident on the trail. Try exercises like yoga or tai chi to improve your balance.
- Practice hiking with a weighted pack: You will be carrying your gear on the trail, so it’s important to get used to hiking with a full pack. Start by carrying a lightly loaded pack on your training hikes, and gradually increase the weight as you become more comfortable.
- Mental preparation: Hiking the Florida Trail is a big undertaking, and it’s important to be mentally prepared for the challenge. Set realistic goals for yourself, and remember that it’s okay to take a break if you need it. It is also good to have a support system that you can call if you need advice or help on the trail. This will help ease fear and anxiety.
By following these tips and training consistently, you’ll be well on your way to completing your thru-hike on the Florida Trail. Remember to take your time and enjoy the journey, and always be prepared for the unexpected.
So, are you ready to take on the Florida Trail? With a combination of physical and mental preparation, the right gear, and the determination to succeed, you can make your thru-hike dream a reality. Remember, the Florida trail offers not just a physical challenge but a mental one too, embrace it, enjoy the journey, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Happy hiking!
Please check out our other post about the Florida Trail. Join our newsletter to be informed when we release new content. Coming soon… all the information about the Florida Trail itself, the terrains, landscapes, landmarks, and sights along the way.
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