Florida Trail Association
Central Florida Chapter
Serving Orange, Seminole and Osceola Counties
The Central Florida Chapter of the Florida Trail Association was chartered in 1981 and is one of FTA’s largest chapters with more than 500 members. We maintain over 60 miles of the Florida National Scenic Trail, along with trails in Wekiwa Springs State Park, and Little Big Econ and Charles Bronson State Forests.
Our active members lead and participate in many hiking, biking, paddling, camping and trail maintenance activities. Each Thanksgiving we have a group camping event at a state park or forest and each New Years we “retreat” to the Ocala National Forest for a fun-filled camp out and celebration.
Next Chapter Meeting:
March 20th, 6:30 @ Leu Gardens
Pete Bromen will be our guest speaker for February.
A Minnesota native and retired Air Force pilot, Pete returned home to Duluth in 2017 after a 28-year career. Duluth, located at the western tip of Lake Superior, is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise, offering mountain biking, cross-country skiing, the Superior Hiking Trail, and access to the 1-million-acre Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCA).
In addition to the 17 mile linear North Shore Trail and a 11 mile wildlife drive, the Clay Island trails offer loop hikes on elevated levees ranging between 4.7 and 7.2 miles, with tall observation towers along the way. A great spot for birdwatching, many migratory and resident birds frequent the natural and unnatural wetlands adjacent to the lake.
The easiest way to access the loop trails is from the Clay Island Trailhead at the end of Carolyn Lane. Shade is very limited on the trail system, and sun protection is highly recommended.
We have finished our chapter's trail maintenance for the 2024-2025 season. Stay tuned for upcoming special projects, and an announcement for our 2025-2026 dates later this year!
The Florida Trail Association develops, maintains, protects, and promotes a network of hiking trails throughout the state, including the unique Florida National Scenic Trail.
Together with our partners we provide opportunities for the public to hike, engage in outdoor recreation, participate in environmental education, and contribute to meaningful volunteer work.