Embracing the Challenge and Charm of Florida’s Wilderness

The Florida Trail- one of only 11 National Scenic Trails in the United States— stretches 1,500 miles from the Oasis Visitor Center near Miami to the Alabama border. Divided into 19 sections, each portion is maintained by a different chapter of the Florida Trail Association (FTA).  

Among these chapters, the Alligator Amblers stand out for their work on especially demanding sections of trail located in Lee, Charlotte, and Collier counties. Frequent flooding and swamp-like conditions make maintenance a unique challenge - often requiring specialized gear to keep the path navigable.  

“We’re the only chapter that has to bring in swamp buggies to finish the work,” says Carl Kepford, the Alligator Amblers’ Activity Leader. “It’s the toughest section of the Florida National Scenic Trail, but we manage to keep it open so hikers can complete their journey.” 

Besides the I-75 area, the group also maintains a seven-mile loop at Collier Seminole State Park. This trail can be equally challenging due to frequent flooding, and volunteer involvement is critical. Kepford encourages both newcomers and experienced hikers to get involved - membership in the FTA supports ongoing trail maintenance and provides access to a statewide network of activities. 

Although the Alligator Amblers focus on trail maintenance, they also provide an array of outdoor activities, including easy-to-moderate hikes, kayaking trips, and family-friendly bike rides. “We want to engage as many communities as we can,” Kepford explains. “We work at the state level to reach as many diverse groups as possible.” 

Upcoming events for early 2025 promise to offer a mix of activities for every skill level. On February 22nd, the Alligator Amblers group will lead a 3.5-mile moderate hike along the Sabal Palm Trail in the Picayune Strand State Forest. This hike, set in flat pinewoods interspersed with cypress trees, may involve wading through two inches of water in some spots. After completing the figure-eight Trail Walker Loop, hikers will have the chance to enjoy lunch at the trailhead picnic pavilion and visit the highly recommended South Naples Citrus Grove for fresh vegetables and citrus. 

Adding to the February calendar is the chapter’s regular monthly meeting. On February 20th, the Alligator Amblers will convene at the Estero Recreation Center for a presentation by Mike Kirkland, Lead Invasive Animal Biologist for the South Florida Water Management District. Open to the public, Kirkland will discuss the history of the python invasion, current management strategies, and the comprehensive Python Elimination Program, highlighting ways for chapter members to get involved. 

Looking ahead, the chapter’s first maintenance activities on their challenging section of the Florida Trail are slated for March 1st and 2nd. Volunteers will gather at the entrance near Mile Marker 63 on I-75 to head south with loppers and paint in hand, ready to refresh the trail’s orange blazes. Kepford notes that these dates are subject to change depending on weather conditions and controlled burn activities. 

Whether tackling the most arduous sections of the trail or enjoying a leisurely hike, the Alligator Amblers remain committed to engaging a diverse community of outdoor enthusiasts. “We definitely want to involve families and beginners,” Kepford emphasized. Activities such as backpacking and camping classes - held roughly every two years - help demystify long-distance hiking and ensure that newcomers can safely experience Florida’s natural wonders. “We’ll probably backpack again next spring,” anticipates Kepford.