The Florida National Scenic Trail (FNST) is 1 of only 11 National Scenic Trails in the country, and 1 of 3 contained entirely within a single state. This hike is a 7 mile segment of the Ocean to Lake Trail - technically a side trail of the (FNST) - which runs from Hobe Sound on the ocean to Lake Okeechobee - 63 miles inland. We will take a side trail & service road back to make a ~14 mile loop.

Swamplands, pine flatwoods, scrub, and saw palmetto are frequently seen on the southern portions of the FNST.  Some of the common types of wildlife seen in this region include: alligators, cattle, panthers, Florida black bears, and many different bird species. Great opportunity to see the Seminole lands before the casinos :). Great picture taking and quiet wilderness.

GOOD - LIGHTWEIGHT - hiking shoes & extra socks. You will hike through extended water sections up to thigh deep and sections of wet mud. Shoes should be light & sturdy & fit snuggly. NO PETS. Bring bugspray & sun block. Although I've been hiking segments this May-June - bugs have not been an issue. Many portions of the trail are shaded, others are open and lots of sun. WATER - 2 liters recommended. Water available along the hike but needs treatment filters or purifying tablets. Since it is June, water will be very important. I freeze 2 1 liter bottles & put in the fridge the night before & have cold water most of the day. I've found a lite lunch - a sandwich & small snacks adequate for the estimated 6+ hours from start to finish.

We will pickup the trail insde J.W. Corbett Wildlife Management Area on South Grade Rd at milepost 40.7 (E-W) of the Ocean to Lake Trail (about 3 miles from the main entrance to J.W. Corbett W.M.A.) then hike west 7 miles to Dupuis Reserve boundary - then back along trail #4 inside J.W. Corbett W.M.A. to South Grade Rd.

I'm recommending a meet-up at 7AM at the main gate to J.W. Corbett Wildlife Management Area. It will take 30-60 minutes to drive to the trailhead and get going & to get most of the hike in before the midday heat.

I'm using moderate to strenuous primarily for the heat & the water & mud sections. No elevation changes but the south Florida heat is draining.

meet at: From I95 take Northlake Blvd west to (end). Turn right on Seminole Pratt Whitney road north. Road becomes hard packed dirt road to south entrance & check station of J.W. Corbett Wildlife Management Area.

There are fees for access to the Corbett Wildlife Management Area. $3 per person OR $6 per vehicle daily use fee. Honor system.