Hiking in the Sunshine state has it's own risks and rewards. So here's some suggestions that use to keep less risk and more reward.
Between the rare machine washing for your clothes, you'll need to keep your laundry clean for good hygiene.
Now I only bring two sets of clothes. You guessed it: the dirty ones and the clean ones, except for one extra set of sock liners and some cold-weather stuff for the winter months.
When I stop by a more accessible access water source, I like to give my dirty clothes a good rinse, using no soap at all. After wringing them out good, I hang them on the back of my pack, using two different sizes of carabiner.
I use two smalls at the top of my pack (for socks), two medium sizes in the middle (for shirts or underwear), and two medium at the bottom (for other stuff). You can use as many carabiners as you need, but make sure you secure clothes well. So they don't fall off. Usually, when I get to camp, everything is dry and ready to use again. This process can be slower in the winter and almost instant in the summer.
The water in the backcountry of Florida can range from crystal clear to dark brown or black. The water hikers complain about on other trails is typical for the FT.
It also comes with its unique issues when filtering. Now, I prefer the "Sawyer Squeeze Water Filtration System." It filters a lot of water quicker than smaller systems without error, and I even bring a second one for the day the first can't operate anymore. One issue with some of the water is that some particulates are so small they start clogging the filter, even if you're backwashing it. Backwashing with hot water frequently will give life to the filter, but won't stop squeeze bags busting.
So here's what I do. I keep an empty plastic 2-liter bottle with me, put the water in it, and use it for the squeeze bottle (usually sitting on it instead of squeezing). When I get close to the camp, I use the bags to fill with other water to filter later for the rest of the day and tomorrow's hike. It will make your filter go much farther, and the bottle is light so that it won't weigh down your pack. Flattening the bottle and then putting the cap on it so it doesn't take much room in your pack.
.Florida black bears rarely become aggressive when encountered. So it's always best to keep your distance and back or side step away slowly. Leave them an escape route, stand your ground, and never run away because it can trigger a predatory reaction. Try to make yourself look bigger by raising your arms and jacket. In a loud, monotone voice, "Get out of here, bear," or something like that, while waving your arms and clapping should get them to retreat. Load noises like a bear horn or a whistle should also work.
If you know a bear in the area while hiking, you can sing loudly, use a radio, or clap loudly intermittently to warn them a human is coming so they won't be startled. Wearing a bear bell doesn't work. Try not to show your teeth to them (like smiling) or make eye contact, but don't continually stare directly at them. Never turn your back on them. You don't want to look like you are challenging them. They may bluff charge you, so have your bear spray ready and give one small squirt in the air at them. If they keep getting closer, the bear spray can be effective if you spray it in their eyes or nose.
The most important thing is to never get between a momma bear and its cubs or avoid being close to any cubs. A momma bear will attack if she thinks her cubs are in danger. If a bear sees you and goes up a tree, then leave it alone and go because it's trying not to have a confrontation, either. Always stay "Bear Aware."
When getting water from a high bridge (not advised on auto bridges), steep edge, or a, that looks unsure because of (alligators, cottonmouths) wildlife.
I prefer to use a plastic 4-cup measuring cup I got from a dollar store. I cut the handle off and drilled three 1/4 inch holes at the top, just below the rim, and put them equally around. Make sure to put the pour spout in the middle of the holes.
If I need to dip water somewhere, I use my carabiners (usually 4 to 5 smalls) from my pack to connect the holes and clip to my bear bag line. Then you quickly get water from these harder-to-get water sources or concerning water sources while keeping you safe.
There has never been a panther attack on a human in Florida. But they are wild animals, and although they are rarely seen, close encounters should be avoided. So it's always best to keep your distance and back or side step away slowly. Leave them an escape route, stand your ground, and never run away because it can trigger a predatory reaction. Make eye contact. Try to make yourself look bigger by raising your arms and jacket. Never turn your back on them.
If you know there is a panther in the area while hiking; you can sing loudly, use a radio, or clap loudly intermittently to warn them a human is coming so they won't be startled. Never crouch down so as not to look smaller or like a four-legged animal. Also, get your bear/mountain lion spray ready. If they get closer, give one small squirt in the air at them. If they keep getting closer, then the mountain lion spray can be effective if you spray in their eyes or nose.
Most importantly, never get between a momma panther and its kittens or try to avoid being close to any kittens. A momma panther will attack if she thinks her kittens are in danger.
1. The number one way to avoid getting bit is to leave it alone. Never approach an alligator. Alligators naturally fear people; the majority will get away from you or try to hide from you. They can run upwards of 35mph for short periods, so give them plenty of space so they don't feel threatened. Some larger gators that are 10 feet or more will usually ignore you. If you must pass, give them at least a 20-foot buffer and more if they are bellowing, hissing, or growling, which they may be getting territorial.
2. Alligators are mostly active from sunset to sunrise. So it's always best to avoid getting in the water or the water edges so you are not mistaken for their food. Also, dark waters can be hard for them to see, so they use a head-sweeping technique with pressure sensors on their snouts and bite anything they sense, such as movements or vibrations in the water. This technique allows them to hunt in darker and deeper waters for the rest of the day.
3. Water crossings are mostly about surveying the total area around you. Some signs of an alligator in the area are large gouges on the edges of the water and siding marks from reentering the water. They also make periodic bubbles, and they sometimes have their nostrils and eyes above the water. Alligators prefer deeper waters, so if you must cross, pick a shallow spot and always check for signs around bushes or inlets you may pass. At night, you can use a flashlight to look for their eyes. Alligators' eyes glow like a reflector if you shine a light on them and they face your direction. They are incredibly stealthy, and their presence can't always be detected, so always use caution.
4. The offspring of an alligator will stay close to the mother for up to 2 years. During this time, they are under protection from the momma gator. If they feel threatened, they make a chirping-like bark that will call the momma gator for assistance. The momma gator will remove the threat by chasing off or killing the danger. Crocodiles leave the offspring when they hatch.
5. Although not as frequent as alligators, the American crocodiles are found in southern Florida swamps and waters, including the Big Cypress Preserve. With crocodiles, use the same precautions as you would for alligators, but remember that crocodiles can be more aggressive and should be avoided if possible.
The FT has around ten tick species and is a common nuisance on the trail. The most common ticks in Florida include the dog tick, the lone star tick, and the black legged or deer tick. Each of these species poses potential health risks, as they are known vectors for several diseases, such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and Southern tick associated rash illness.
The peak season for tick activity in Florida typically ranges from spring through fall, coinciding with warmer temperatures and increased outdoor activity. Their propensity for hiding in shady, moist areas makes it essential for people engaging in outdoor activities to take preventive measures. Wearing long sleeves and pants, Mosquito suit, using insect repellent containing DEET, and thoroughly checking for ticks after spending time outdoors can significantly reduce the chances of tick bites.
Frequent tick checks of yourself are recommended, and those who wear shorts should check their legs after sitting on the ground. To remove one, grab hold of it from as close to the skin as you can with tweezers or fingernails without squeezing the tick and pulling straight up on it. Next, clean the area.
These scorpions can often be spotted in leafy areas, under rocks, or even inside tents, mostly in southern regions of the state, But I've found several in north Florida. Although they are not usually aggressive, they will sting if you get one in your sock or anywhere on you and their venom feels like painful bee sting. While serious medical issues from scorpion stings are rare, certain individuals—especially children and those with allergies—may experience more severe reactions. Take a extra close look if your opening a trail log box.
Keep your tent zipped immediately after existing and shake out footwear and socks, especially in summer or when your tent is set on ground debris, such as layers of leaves.
If you get stung, seek medical advice from a healthcare professional or dial 911.
Deer flies, Horse flies, Yellow flies, Black flies, Dog flies, and dreaded No-see-ums.
Florida has a plethora of biting flies. It's mainly an issue in the summer months. So the (Sun-Walkers) aka FT summer hikers, will require a little more insect repellent. Most are resistant to them anyway.
When the swarms come out, usually around swamps, I use a full-screen suit called a "mosquito suit," which can be purchased online and occasionally in larger retail stores. You wear it over your clothes. It should stop 96% of the bites, including mosquitos and fire ants.
Florida is home to a variety of stinging caterpillars. These remarkable creatures belong to several species, most notably the Flannel Moth caterpillar. The stinging caterpillars are known for their striking appearance, often boasting vivid colors and intricate patterns that can easily captivate onlookers. However, their beauty belies a painful reminder, contact with their spines can result in severe skin reactions, including intense pain, rashes, and in some cases, allergic reactions that necessitate medical attention.
Native to the subtropical and tropical climates of Florida, these caterpillars thrive in the lush landscapes, often found on host plants such as oaks and other deciduous trees. It's essential for residents and visitors to be aware of their presence, particularly during the late summer and early fall months when these caterpillars are most active. ​
Don't forget a
Mosquito Suit
