About us
Tropical Trekkers is a chapter of the Florida Trail Association (FTA) responsible for maintaining the Florida National Scenic Trail form the North end of Lake Okeechobee to the north end of Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park.
We use this meetup group to advertise the FTA to the public by listing the activities that our volunteer leaders offer. You’ll find many activities that are listed as “FTA members only”. To participate in these activities, you must become a member of the FTA. Here’s the link: https://florida-trail-association.givecloud.co/join
Upcoming events
6

BACKPACKING 101
Location not specified yetGET READY, FUTURE BACKPACKERS!
IMPORTANT!
You must email chazlh1@aol.com to sign up for this eventAre you dreaming about your first thru-hike but not sure where to start? Join the Tropical Trekkers for Introduction to Backpacking 101—the first course in a series designed to help you feel confident, prepared, and trail-ready!
September 26
10:00 AM–2:00 PM
Port St. Lucie, FL
Exact location will be provided after registration as the event gets closer.IMPORTANT!
You must email chazlh1@aol.com to sign up for this eventBackpacking 101: Gear & Supplies
Our first course will focus on the gear and supplies you'll need for a thru-hike. Whether you already have a full setup or you're starting from scratch, everyone is welcome!
Experienced backpackers will be there to share their knowledge, showcase their gear, answer questions, and help you discover what works best for you and your backpacking goals.
What to Bring
• Any backpacking gear you already have—don't worry if you don't have anything yet!
• A meal you'd like to prepare on a future backpacking trip. You'll have the opportunity to learn how to prepare it on the trail, and it can also serve as your lunch for the day.
This is your chance to:
•Ask questions
•Compare gear
•Learn trail skills
•Connect with experienced backpackers
Start preparing for your adventure on the trail
This is just the beginning! Introduction to Backpacking 101 will be followed by two additional courses that build on what you'll learn in the first session.
Registration is required.
Come with your questions, your curiosity, and your excitement for the trail. Let's get you trail-ready!
IMPORTANT!
You must email chazlh1@aol.com to sign up for this event2 attendees
GUIDED TOUR SAVANNAS PRESERVE STATE PARK
Savannas Preserve State Park, Port St Lucie, FL, Port St Lucie, Fl, USHike with a Park Ranger
Join the Tropical Trekkers for a special guided hike with a park ranger at Savannas Preserve State Park!
Date: Saturday, October 10, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM–12:30 PM
Location: Savannas Preserve State Park
Google Maps location
We’ll begin with an introduction to the park, including its history, unique habitats, programs and activities, and exciting new projects. Then, we’ll head out with a park ranger for a guided hike along some of the park’s trails.
If you’re interested in learning about the park, getting some exercise, getting sweaty, and possibly getting your feet wet, this is the event for you!
Be Prepared
The program will last approximately 2½ hours, including the park introduction. We will start promptly at 10:00 AM, so please arrive early.
Please bring:- Closed-toe shoes — getting your feet wet is possible!
- At least 1 liter of water
- A snack
- A hat
- Sunscreen
- A willingness to have fun and learn!
Limited Space
We have a maximum capacity of 20 participants, so please sign up early.
If you register but are unable to attend, please be considerate and cancel as soon as possible so someone else has the opportunity to participate.
Come explore, learn, and experience this amazing natural location with the Tropical Trekkers and a park ranger!20 attendees
BACKPACKING 201
Location not specified yetGET READY, FUTURE BACKPACKERS!
IMPORTANT!
You must email chazlh1@aol.com to sign up for this eventThe Tropical Trekkers are excited to invite you to Introduction to Backpacking 201!
•October 17th
•8:00 AM
•Oak Creek Campground
https://maps.app.goo.gl/oydPaXRUodsrZiGy6?g_st=icOvernight Car Camping
It’s time to take the skills you learned in Backpacking 101 and put them into practice! This overnight adventure is the perfect opportunity to test your gear, build confidence, and get more comfortable with the camping and backpacking experience.
What to Bring:
• The camping/backpacking gear you plan to use
• 3 meals: Saturday lunch, Saturday dinner, and Sunday breakfast
• Everything you need for an overnight outdoor adventure
Be prepared to:
•Practice your outdoor skills
•Get familiar with your camping gear
•Spend some time stargazing
•Connect with nature
•Enjoy camping and building memories with fellow trekkers
Come ready to learn, explore, practice, and have fun! This is your chance to take what you learned in 101 and put it into practice as you prepare for future backpacking adventures.
•Get your gear ready, Future Backpackers — the trail is calling!
IMPORTANT!
You must email chazlh1@aol.com to sign up for this event2 attendees
Past events
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