Although John is a native Floridian, our research trip to South Florida became an opportunity for him to see many natural “firsts” in Florida that most people have on their life lists.
Barefoot Beach Preserve
In a hidden corner of Collier County, Barefoot Beach Preserve provides immersion in nature at a beauty spot along two miles of natural shoreline on the Gulf of Mexico just north of Wiggins Pass.
Cuban chugs in Key West
Sometimes we take history for granted. A walk through the Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden led to a collection of Cuban chugs, which we didn’t know what they were until we learned their story.
Key West Au Naturel
On a recent visit to Key West, we sought its natural side – what it looked like before it became a city. And since it’s been a city for more than 150 years, it takes a bit of sleuthing to find natural habitats.
Koreshan State Park
When Dr. Cyrus Teed founded a commune along the banks of the Estero River in 1894, he envisioned a utopia in the tropics. Koreshan State Park preserves that slice of history.
Looping through Black Bear Wilderness
In our first two miles, we saw a boar … and a bear. Be ready for adventure at Black Bear Wilderness Area, especially along the new 7.1 mile loop.
Outdoor Products 20L Amphibian Weather Defense™ Backpack
Keeping water out also means a pack can keep water in. That’s the delightful dual purpose we discovered while testing the Outdoor Products 20L Amphibian Weather Defense™ Backpack in the Florida Keys
Outdoor Products Canyon Weather Defense™ Backpack
Testing an Outdoor Products Canyon Weather Defense™ Backpack in foul weather conditions while hiking, we find it stands up to the test of keeping your gear dry.
Permanent closure of the Florida Trail between Suwannee and Aucilla Rivers
A permanent closure of 55 miles of the Florida Trail between the Suwannee and Aucilla Rivers leaves thru-hikers no alternative but a very lengthy roadwalk
Rookery Bay NERR
Protecting vast mangrove forests and coastal habitats between Naples and Ten Thousand Islands NWR, Rookery Bay NERR encompasses a mind-boggling 110,000 acres.
Sailing Fort Lauderdale
For a relaxing cruise along Fort Lauderdale Beach and a chance to snorkel offshore, take a trip on the Spirit of Lauderdale to gawk at Millionaire’s Row and sail on the Atlantic
Spirit of Pennekamp
Cruising on the Spirit of Pennekamp is how landlubbers – and snorklers uncomfortable with ocean swells – get to experience the living coral reefs of the Florida Keys
