(Cross posted from the Backpacker forums.)
My sis and I did an overnight trip on the FT starting at FR 356 about a mile north of US 319. We hiked about ten miles the first day. We ate our lunch on the Sopchoppy River near Oak Park Bridge, and then camped by the new footbridge over Monkey Creek. Along the way we dodged spiders, ticks, and large piles of bear scat. We saw some deer, and also had what we believe was a long distance encounter with a bear. We heard something large off the trail in a thicket, cracking branches and moving around very deliberately. We never caught sight of whatever it was, but we had a few exciting minutes hoping that we would/wouldn't.
The campsite on Monkey Creek was very idyllic. I finally found a place to camp where I don't hear cars--it was wonderfully quiet out there. There was also plenty of water in the creek, and it was a nice champagne color, which is on the pale side for Florida water. The bridge made a nice place to sit and chat. We had a very pleasant evening.
The hike out the next morning was very leisurely. Except for the ticks, it was a great time.
Some pictures...
Starting out.
Sunlight slanting through the pines.
A deer bounding away through the woods.
The Sopchoppy River.
Fresh bear scat for sale. The flies are extra.
Monkey Creek Bridge.
Sunrise from our campsite.
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