From the Florida Department of Environmental Protection:
TALLAHASSEE – The Florida Department of Environmental Protection invites you to celebrate Greenways and Trails Month. Florida is home to more than 4,000 miles of paddling trails and 8,000 miles of land-based trails, including the Florida National Scenic Trail, 32 National Recreation Trails and eight multi-use state trails.
In commemoration of these unique paths, Governor Rick Scott proclaimed October as Florida Greenways and Trails Month, encouraging residents and visitors alike to explore the vast number of greenways and trails found in the Sunshine State.
“Greenways and Trails Month draws needed attention to unique opportunities in the state,” said Florida Park Service Director Donald Forgione. “I encourage Floridians and visitors to explore the rivers, award-winning trails and paths. Whether you like biking, hiking or paddling, our Florida state parks have something for you.”
October is filled with statewide activities encouraging Floridians to take advantage of the many activities greenways and trails offer. The statewide events begin with the inaugural Coast to Coast Connector Summit in Winter Park on Oct. 1. At the summit, participants will learn about the nearly 250-mile system of trails that will connect the Gulf Coast in Pinellas County to the Atlantic coast near Titusville.
There will be a variety of paddling events, including the Hidden Coast Paddling Festival in the Steinhatchee-area. From Oct. 2-5 the festival offers 23 guided paddling trips, a kayak fishing tournament and a boat cruise on the Steinhatchee River. Throughout the festival there will be several other educational and recreational events celebrating the river.
For those who prefer biking, there are several cycling events as well, including the 34th Annual Gainesville Cycling Festival Oct. 24 and 25, and the Ride of the Living Dead cycling event on the Cross Florida Greenway Oct. 25. The Ride of the Living Dead is an annual Halloween-themed cycling competition with 22- and 50-mile options.
A variety of trail-related events, including medicinal plant walks and moonlight paddling trips are being offered at Florida state parks throughout the month. To find an event near you, click here.