Next Saturday is the kickoff of the 14th Annual “Big O” Hike around Lake Okeechobee. It’s 9 days of social networking, if you will, the old-fashioned way. Walk in a big circle with fellow hikers, prepare to see some of the most awesome sunrises ever, and keep track of the bird species along the way, as they are plentiful!
For logistical details about the hike, visit the Florida Trail Association Loxahatchee Chapter website.
When I first got on the kick of the Big O Hike back in 2002, it was to mourn the loss of a friend, Sunny Piskura, who’d been the trip leader for the hike. We’d had plans to hike together but she succumbed to cancer a couple of months before the Thanksgiving week kickoff. In losing Sunny, I gained many new friends, some of the nearest and dearest to me, as we bonded on the hike. Yes, you’ll get your exercise, with 9.3 to 15 miles per day to complete the loop around the lake in nine days, but it’s a great way to unplug, too.
Last year, I stayed offline for the week and then posted a series of trip reports thereafter. This year, I’m unsure of the plan, even at this late date. I have deadlines to meet and research to do, so my time at the lake may be more limited than I like. But I encourage you, if you’re at all interested in doing the hike, head for the KOA Okeechobee along US 441 next Friday and let them know you’re a Big O Hiker. Kickoff is 8 AM Sat morning in Pahokee, and those of us who can, carpool. Hope to see you there!
