Florida Trail Association

From its humble roots in the Ocala National Forest in 1966, the Florida Trail has grown to a state-spanning resource encompassing more than 1,400 miles of linear hiking from the Big Cypress National Preserve to Gulf Islands National Seashore. In 1986, the trail was designated one of only eight National Scenic Trails in the United States.

Although incomplete in places, the trail utilizes blazed road walks to connect completed sections. Members of the Florida Trail Association (FTA) build and maintain sections of the Florida Trail throughout the state as well as many of the loop trails provided in Florida State Parks and Florida State Forests. Look for the “FT” sign at the trailhead for trails built and maintained by the FTA.

Local FTA chapters hold meetings with an outdoor recreation focus and lead guided hikes on many trails. The FTA maintains a statewide trail inventory and creates detailed maps for backpacking, which are updated annually and sold in regional and state sets. For more information on the FTA and to purchase maps, visit their detailed website, call 877-HIKE-FLA, or write to Florida Trail Association, 5415 SW 13th Street, Gainesville, FL 32608.