As of May 1, 2013, the Army Corps of Engineers has closed yet another segment of the Florida National Scenic Trail around Lake Okeechobee, this time from John Stretch Park to South Bay. The section will not reopen until a water control structure is replaced, as late as late 2014. Section hikers, thru-hikers, and backpackers […]
Around Okeechobee
Our 2018 update of the state of the Florida Trail around Lake Okeechobee. Thru-hikers should continue to use Okeechobee West as their route around the lake. We provide full details on why.
Big O Hike
Nine days, 109 miles: that’s the circuit around Lake Okeechobee to complete a walk around the second largest lake inside American borders on the Big O Hike.
Coping with Lake Okeechobee Florida Trail closures
For thru-hikers in 2012-2013, closures around Lake Okeechobee along the Florida Trail have made logistics quite a challenge. The Army Corps of Engineers has contractors working along several large segments of the dike, continuing to make it impossible to “do the loop” of 110 miles around Lake Okeechobee without a dangerous amount of roadwalks. More […]
Florida Trail closures expand around Lake Okeechobee
It’s been more than five years since the Army Corps of Engineers started repairs on the Herbert Hoover Dike in the wake of the 2004-2005 hurricanes, and each year, the project continues to expand in scope. For several years now, it’s been impossible for section hikers to “do the loop” of the entire circle around […]
Florida Trail, Henry Creek to Okeechobee
Along the north shoreline of Lake Okeechobee, this paved segment of the Florida Trail is one of its prettiest, with 8.7 miles of hiking from Henry Creek to Parrott Ave.
Florida Trail, Moore Haven to Clewiston
On the 11.9 mile stretch of the Florida Trail between Moore Haven and Clewiston, sunrises are spectacular and panoramic views stretch on for miles.
Florida Trail, Pahokee to Port Mayaca
The sweep of Lake Okeechobee curves away from your perch on the Herbert Hoover Dike as you walk this section of the Florida Trail along the eastern side of the lake between Pahokee and Port Mayaca.
Florida Trail, Port Mayaca to Henry Creek
One of the segments of the Florida Trail that are paved around Lake Okeechobee, the 13.7-mile walk between Port Mayaca and Henry Creek offers unparalleled vistas of both open water and the marshes
Harney Pond Canal Recreation Area
Where’s the best view of Lake Okeechobee? It’s hidden in plain sight in the town of Lakeport, in a park that’s alternately known as the Harney Pond Canal Recreation Area and Margaret Van De Velde Park.