Gator growl at La Chua
In the heart of Gator Country, a deep sinkhole swallows the waters of Paynes Prairie at its northeastern rim in Gainesville: La Chua Sink. A brand new boardwalk now provides a closer look.
Wild horses on Paynes Prairie
That magical moment when you climb to the top of the observation tower on the rim of Paynes Prairie and see the wild horses on the prairie for the first time: priceless.
Umatilla gets a nature trail
On March 21, Lake County opened a brand-new county park in Umatilla called North Lake Community Park. Among its many facilities, which include a big playground, picnic pavilions, volleyball and tennis courts, and a walking trail (1.4 miles) around the …
Get Outdoors, Florida!
In late March, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission launched Get Outdoors, Florida!, an important statewide initiative to encourage Floridians – and all members of their families – to get outside and enjoy our outdoors. I …
New addition to the National Scenic Trail system
The 220-mile New England National Scenic Trail is the first new National Scenic Trail to be established since the Florida Trail was designated as one in 1983.
Pitcher plants at Tarkiln Bayou
At Tarkiln Bayou State Park, the showy blooms of pitcher plants are on parade each spring. The boggy Perdido Pitcher Plant Prairie is ground zero for these beauties.
Before the Burn: Juniper Prairie Wilderness
What did the Juniper Prairie Wilderness look like before the fires of 2009? Here's what I photographed on a hike just a few weeks before the devastating blaze.
Hiking Farles Prairie
Hiking along the Farles Prairie section of the Florida Trail adjoining Pine Castle Bombing Range, we get to experience both a bomb concussion and a charred "nightmare forest" after a dropped bomb.
Along Hopkins Prairie
Hiking around Hopkins Prairie for the third time, I have my first encounter with the Rainbow People and meet backpackers along this scenic stretch of the Florida Trail.
I Did I-Did-A-Hike
On the 2009 I-Did-A-Hike, 40 participants enjoyed special access to a portion of the Florida Trail that is not formalized yet, but when it is, will lead hikers right past the famed Big Shoals.
Miami Hikes?
Response to a reader question on trails within a half-hour of Aventura: My wife and I love to walk and hike. What trails would you recommend?
Hiking Buckman Lock to Rodman Dam
Following the Florida Trail between Buckman Lock and the Rodman Recreation Area means walking down a levee along an orphaned section of the Cross Florida Barge Canal for most of the hike.