OCTOBER
Oct. 24 Sunset kayak trip to Caladesi Island. Moderate kayak trip, round trip distance 3 miles across open water, prior kayaking experience required. Learn about the history of the island. Rentals available. Leader, Rudy Scheffer 727.726.8375 or rudy@adventuresworldwide.com (Suncoast)
Oct 24 Come join the Tampa Group on a bike ride up the Suncoast Parkway and into Starkey Wilderness. We will bike to the Starkey Park, have lunch, take a short hike down to the Pithlachascotee River. We'll learn about one of our region's main water supply sources and how it was acquired. Round trip approximately 20 miles. Bring water, lunch, snacks, sunscreen, hat/sunglasses. We'll meet 9:00 AM at the McDonald's on SR54 just west of the Suncoast Parkway. Trailhead is across the road. Leader: Gail Parsons gailpar1@verizon.net Cell # is 813-928-1412 (Tampa Bay)
Oct. 25 Manatee Program, Paddle on the Orange River & Potluck Dinner. Meet at Manatee Park, 1.5 miles East of I-75 on St. Rd. 80 (across from the power plant) for an educational program on manatees. Afterwards we will paddle on the Orange River, an offshoot of the Great Calusa Blueway. The river meanders about 7 miles towards Buckingham; distance will depend on participant skill levels and the water level. Rentals available: kayaks- $25/hr, canoes-$20/hr. Parking is $1/hr. Potluck dinner afterwards. Reserve with Em at 239-472-8973. (Calusa)
Oct 31 Canoe/Kayak at John Prince Park in Lake Worth. Leisurely canoeing and kayaking in the backwaters of John Prince Park. Must have your own boat, but those without can also sign up in case someone has an open slot in their boat. Email or call Ron Haines for more info and reservations ronaldhaines@bellsouth.net 561 315-0528 (Loxahatchee)
Oct 31-Nov 1 Seranova Backpack. This will be a brand new trip we have not done before. The Seranova is a SWFWMD managed track just to the north of Starkey Wilderness Park, and a part of the Starkey Wilderness Preserve. Come explore and learn about the varied pine flatwoods, cypress domes, freshwater marshes, stream and lake swamps, sandhill and scrub this tract has to offer. leader Ben Berauer, 727-392-2821 or bfberauer@aol.com (Suncoast)
Nov 6 Women's Weeki Wachee Kayak Trip. Join our annual Fall Trip as we paddle down this beautiful crystal clear river where fish, playful otters and manatees will keep us company. We will explore some of the problems caused by the rapid development of this area. Cost about $40 to rent kayaks. Please reserve a spot at least a week in advance. Sue Brandon, brandon11@earthlink.net , 813-622-1800. (Suncoast)
Nov. 7 Shark Valley Bike Ride. Sue and Brigita are leading a moderately-paced 15-mile bike ride in Shark Valley (located in the Everglades) Shark Valley is 25 miles West of the Florida Turnpike and about 70 miles east of Naples. The terrain is flat and grassy and participants should expect to see a good deal of alligators and probably other wildlife as well. Eat lunch before and bring snacks. If you do not bring your own bike, the National Park Service rents bikes for $7.00 an hour and helmets are provided. Those needing to rent bikes must be at the park by 12:30 to complete the necessary paperwork and Sue will be available to assist with the rental process (Sue will also rent a bike herself!). All rental bikes must be returned no later than 4:00 PM. Interested participants should email Sue at susiesstuff@mac.com or call her at (239) 595-1873 and leave a voicemail. All participants are required to wear helmets, regardless of age. (Calusa)
Nov 7 Davie Bike and Brunch. A leisurely 7-8 mile bike ride, beginning with brunch at Robbins Park and a stop at the recently opened Long Key Nature Center and Natural Area to learn about this archaeologically and environmentally rich area. Rated leisure. Cost: TBA (see website for updates or contact leader). Leader: Jackie Fisher 954-434-2855 or jsfisher@bigfoot.com (Broward Group)
Nov 8 Glades 101 Everglades National Park Day Walk. Introductory visit and “walk-hike” sampler in the ‘Glades for beginners and refresher for veterans and guests. We’ll preview our experience with film, displays and visiting art show at the Coe Visitor Center then stroll the Anhinga Boardwalk Trail and nearby Gumbo Limbo Trail followed by a visit to the Pinelands area for a gourmet lunch (included) and walk an unimproved trail there. Time and weather permitting, we’ll visit Pa-hay-okee Overlook boardwalk. Each trail less than one mile long. We’ll look for gators, birds, turtles, fish, maybe a snake or two and bugs in season. Leisure. Limit 8. Cost $15. Please email: Leader Kaatje Bernabei, kaatjebernabei@bellsouth.net , 305-223-6551 and Asst. Alan Nowell, mrhitnmiss@aol.com , 305-253-4250. (Miami)
Nov 14 Ocean to Lake Trail Day Hike. We’ll hike from the Jonathan Dickinson State Park marina north of Jupiter to Riverbend Park west of Jupiter. The total distance is 11 miles. More details are available at http://lox.floridatrail.org/our-trails/the-ocean-to-lake-trail/ Strenuous. Limit 10. $5. Donna Brown, 561-317-8288, donnabrownintl@gmail.com . (Loxahatchee)
Nov 14 Brooker Creek Dayhike (and picnic social). Brooker Creek Preserve is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a quiet place to relax and experience nature. We will have an interpretive walk where we will be lead by a Brooker Creek knowledgeable leader who will introduce us to the flora, fauna, and ecozones of the preserve. The trails meander through pine flatwoods, mesic hammocks and cypress swamps. Come join us for an easy hike of the 4-mile, 4-loop trail system, and/or a social picnic immediately afterward. RSVP please. Hike starts at 9 am. Social picnic starts after the outing at 11 am. Call leader Ben Berauer, 727-392-2821 or bfberauer@aol.com to RSVP for walk and/or picnic (Suncoast)
Nov 14 Explore the 2,000-acre Blackwater Creek Nature Preserve in NE Hillsborough County. The 6-mile hike will include various natural habitats and a stop at a scenic overlook to view Blackwater Creek. Leader: Mike Raff at raff32@msn.com or 813-642-8624 (Tampa Bay)
Nov 14 Paddle the Hillsborough River and Learn about a Hidden Oxbow called Orange Lake, a hidden gem located in the middle of urban Tampa. 9:00 PM. We will paddle downstream from the Riverhills Park boat ramp near 56th St past the 40th St bridge and explore this unknown oxbow before ending our trip near the dam at Rowlett Park. Kayaks will be available courtesy of River Quest, a nonprofit organization. Suggested donation is $25.00 per person. Steve will pick us up at our destination and take us back to Riverhills Park. Limited to 17 people including 4 tandems. If you have your own kayak you’re welcome to paddle with us. We will learn about the natural history of this place and more. This will be a Service Outing so come prepared to pick up litter floating in the river. Don't forget water, sunglasses or hat, snacks and lunch. Leader: Gail Parsons gailpar1@verizon.net Cell: 813-928-1412 (Tampa Bay)
Nov 14-15 Myakka State Park Camping Trip. Leisurely weekend of hiking, canoeing, biking, camping, birding, airboat, canopy walk. One of the oldest and largest state parks, Myakka protects one of the state´s most diverse natural areas. The Myakka River, designated as a Florida Wild and Scenic River, flows through 58 square miles of wetlands, prairies, hammocks, and pinelands. Visitors can enjoy wildlife viewing from a boardwalk that stretches out over the Upper Myakka Lake, then take to the treetops with a stroll along the canopy walkway. Choose your own activities. 4 hour drive on Saturday a.m. and return late Sunday. We will Carpool. Rated moderate Cost: members: $75, non-members $85. Leader: Nancy Lunz 954-658-8531 A101nunzie@aol.com (Broward Group)
Nov 15 DATE CHANGED TO NOVEMBER 14...SEE ABOVE Brooker Creek Dayhike. Hiking trails at Brooker Creek Preserve are ideal for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a quiet place to relax and experience nature. The trails meander through pine flatwoods, mesic hammocks and cypress swamps. Come join us for an easy hike of the 4-mile, 4-loop trail system. leader Ben Berauer, 727-392-2821 or bfberauer@aol.com (Suncoast)
Nov 19 Midweek Spoil Island Cleanup. Show your thanks to nature by cleaning up two spoil islands we have adopted in an effort to make them a better place for birds and other wildlife. Participants must bring own kayak or canoe. Possibility of lunch together afterwards at the Sanbar Grill in Dunedin. Sue Brandon, brandon11@earthlink.net , 813-622-1800. (Suncoast)
Nov 21 Hillsboro Lighthouse. A trip to our own historic lighthouse (which is also a Coast Guard station). Built in the 1920’s, the lighthouse was on the path of the Barefoot Mailman who traveled by foot from Palm Beach to Miami. He disappeared while delivering the mail, swimming across the Hillsboro Inlet because his boat was not there. We will learn history and have fun. Those who wish can climb the lighthouse. We’ll have a gourmet lunch on the grounds. Meet at 8:30 am at Sands Harbor Resort and Marina, Atlantic Avenue, a block north and on the east side of Riverside Drive. for the boat ride over. Cost: $15 each. Afterwards anyone interested can have a beer or cold drink at the Resort outdoor bar. Call Barbara in advance to sign up. Leader: Barbara Curtis 954-946-7359 legalbarb@aol.com (Broward Group)
Nov 27-29 Two night Canoe trip on the Suwannee River. Learn why this is one of the most popular paddles, as we discover springs, wildlife, and natural Florida. Primitive camping along a sandy white river beach. Rentals are available. There will be the cost of a shuttle depending upon group size. Limit 10 participants. This is an easy to moderate trip. Leader Rudy Scheffer at 727.726.8375 or rudy@adventuresworldwide.com (Suncoast)
Nov 28 Hike the Big Cypres National Preserve Wildernes Trail. We’ll hike 8 miles on a wilderness trail off a section of the Florida National Scenic Trail, north of Alligator Alley (about 50 min from Downtown Ft. Lauderdale). You will learn the difference a few inches of elevation makes to the local flora, as you trek through cypress forest, hammocks and prairie. Rated leisurely w/ identification of birds, wildflowers and butterflies. Bring your own lunch, which we’ll eat on the trail. Cost: $3 members, $5 non-members Leader: Kathleen Rhoad 954-627-2665 katrhoad@prodigy.net . (Broward Group)
Nov 28-29 Backpack to Bee Island in Myakka River State Park. 11 mile loop trail. Discover and explore a Florida grassland prairie park and learn how it is being restored. We camp under large old oaks and hike through varied habitat. Leader Ben Berauer, 727-392-2821 or bfberauer@aol.com . (Suncoast)
Nov 29 Biking in Riverbend Park in Jupiter. Leisurely bicycling on hard-packed bike trails in the new Riverbend park though Cypress stands and around watery sloughs. Email or call Ron Haines for more info and reservations ronaldhaines@bellsouth.net 561 315-0528 (Loxahatchee)
Dec 4-6 Bahia Honda State Park Camping. Enjoy the beautiful beach, the fresh air, visit Key West and relax before the hustle and bustle of the holidays. Limit 6. Adults only. Rated leisure. Cost approx. $65 to $85Leader: Judy Kuchta 305-308-8913 judykuchta@yahoo.com . (Broward Group)
Dec. 5 Kayak Isles of Capri (Marco Island area) Explore the backwaters off Isles of Capri in a kayak with a certified Florida Master Naturalist. Bring your own or rent one from the local outfitter. We'll paddle into Johnson Bay and head north until we agree to turn around and head back to Sea Oat Island or another nearby stop for lunch. Chances are we'll see ospreys, manatees, dolphins and other wildlife as we take a leisurely paddle. We'll then return to the Capri Fish House to relax and go our separate ways. The trip is open to kayakers of all skill levels. However, you must be able to make a wet entry and exit. Per Sierra Club policy, every must wear lifejacket. Limited to 10 participants. Call outing leader Victor at 239-438-5286 for details and trip packet. (Calusa)
Dec 5 Glades 101 Everglades National Park Day Walk. Introductory visit and “walk-hike” sampler in the ‘Glades for beginners and refresher for veterans and guests. We’ll preview our experience with film, displays and visiting art show at the Coe Visitor Center then stroll the Anhinga Boardwalk Trail and nearby Gumbo Limbo Trail followed by a visit to the Pinelands area for a gourmet lunch (included) and walk an unimproved trail there. Time and weather permitting, we’ll visit Pa-hay-okee Overlook boardwalk. Each trail less than one mile long. We’ll look for gators, birds, turtles, fish, maybe a snake or two and bugs in season. Leisure. Limit 8. Cost $15. Please email: Leader Kaatje Bernabei, kaatjebernabei@bellsouth.net , 305-223-6551 and Asst. Alan Nowell, mrhitnmiss@aol.com , 305-253-4250. (Miami)
Dec 6 Morning bike ride. We will ride on the Pinellas Trail from Curlew up to Tarpon Springs for a Greek meal by the sponge docks. Learn about the Pinellas Trail, a linear park stretching almost the length of Pinellas. An easy ride of about 18 miles. Leader Ben Berauer, 727-392-2821 or bfberauer@aol.com . (Suncoast)
Dec 12 Join us as we explore several shady trails at Hillsborough River State Park. A large part of the 6-mile hike will be along the bank of the Hillsborough River. May also visit a remarkable reconstruction of the original 1836 Fort Foster. Leader: Mike Raff at raff32@msn.com or 813-642-8624 (Tampa Bay)
Dec 13 Ecowalk at Seacrest Scrub in Boynton Beach. We will walk quietly, for about 1 1/2 hours, with frequent stops to discuss what we have seen. Three hurricanes and a 1996 controlled burn have changed the natural area. Bring your water and binoculars. There are no facilities. The Seacrest Scrub is located on Seacrest Blvd, one mile south of Bethesda Hospital in Boynton Beach. FREE. Leisure but SOMETIMES we will walk in DEEP sand. Limit 10. Lisa Hanley, 561-732-9578, lisa.hanley@Juno.com . (Loxahatchee)
Dec 19 Nine-Mile Pond Canoe Trail Day Canoe Outing. This canoe trail is situated deep in Everglades National Park nine miles north of Flamingo. This shallow-water canoe trail winds hauntingly 5.2 miles through a shallow grassy marsh with scattered mangrove islands. Watch for alligators, wading birds, and an occasional endangered snail kite. We will eat lunch (not included) in our canoe amidst this remarkably solitary space which frequently offers spectacular bird and other wildlife sightings. Moderate to strenuous. Limit 6. Cost: $25, includes transportation, admission to park and canoe rental. Please e-mail: Leader Kaatje Bernabei, kaatjebernabei@bellsouth.net , 305-223-6551 and Asst. Alan Nowell mrhitnmiss@aol.com, 305-253-4250. (Miami)
Dec 26-30 Holiday Hike - Four night/five day backpack trip to Myakka River State Park. A moderate hike of about 30 miles. We plan to explore and stay at several of the parks best campsites. Your leaders will help you learn about the history of this park and what it has to offer. Limit of 8 participants. Cost is $20 plus campsite reservation fees. Co-leaders Mike Pici, 727-798-9227 or revmp777@earthlink.net , Ben Berauer, 727-392-2821 or bfberauer@aol.com (Suncoast)
Feb 6-13, 2010 Fundraising Trip to the Enchanted Island of Puerto Rico.. Spend 7 days on the beautiful island having fun hiking, kayaking, swimming, exploring the tropical forests and learning about the rich culture and history of Puerto Rico. Learn about the environmental issues the island faces from our local Sierra Club guides. We will spend one night in San Juan exploring the old town and the rest of the time we will be at the Patillas Eco Resort www. patillasecoresort.com . The cost of the trip is $650 per person plus airfare and includes all lodging and transportation. Limit 10 participants. For reservations and details contact: Rudy Scheffer, rudy@adventuresworldwide.com, 727.726.8375. (Suncoast)
Training Events:
Oct 24-25 Wilderness First Aid (SOLO) The class is scheduled from 9am-5pm both days. The cost is $150 per person. The location is Payne’s Prairie State Park which is 10 miles south of Gainesville, in Micanopy, on the east side of US 441. The instructors are EMT's, and military experts who have put on survival courses for many years. For more details contact: Rudy Scheffer, 727.726.8375 or email: rudy@adventuresworldwide.com