Ocala National Forest

For the week of November 16-22, the Manateem took to the road and traveled to Ocala National Forest to hike and brush and clear as much trail as the days would allow. We staged at Juniper Springs Campground for the first night, then stuffed the gear, tools and food in our packs (and on our packs, wherever they would fit) and hiked south. We were on the Florida National Scenic Trail and, apart from our food drop, were going to put in as many miles as we could. The first day we ran into some overgrowth and cleared a good mile as we made it to a site about 5 miles away. The second day was when we hit the downed logs. Over forty were removed from the trail as we continued south, leaving a well kempt trail in our wake. The third and fourth day we similar and the sights were great. There was much more elevation (and I use the word lightly) in Ocala compared to where we stay in St. Marks. Hills! Someone remarked that it was the first time they'd hiked uphill in FL. True or not, it did feel great to get out and hike and work the trail simultaneously.
The day after coming home, we assisted a Boy Scout in completing his Eagle Scout project which was to build two puncheon bridges and clear a section of trail within the refuge.
Trail Stats:
Miles Brushed - 13
Log outs - 70