I can feel it in the air. The oppressive temps are lessening and the days are getting a little shorter. Soon we may start to hit night time temps in the lower 70's and even the *gasp* upper 60's in the Piney Woods. Add to that our usual night breezes and you have the makings of a GREAT night of hammock sleeping in the woods.
Time for the Summer's Last Gasp Hang in the beautiful Ocala National Forest on the Florida Trail.
The end of September is a wonderful time of the year for us Floridians. It's still hot enough during the day to enjoy a cool down in Hidden Pond and cool enough at night to cuddle into your hammock with a Summer Series TQ or small blanket. Of course the wonderful cast of characters to talk to and listen to their stories is enough to make the trip worthwhile.
Come on down to Hidden Pond on the Florida Trail in the middle of the Ocala National Forest to shake out your kit and get ready for the hammock hiking and camping season. Make it a one nighter if need be or multiple nights, bring just yourself or a carload. Try out your new gear to make adjustments or for the newbies to get some assistance from some experienced hangers. Share your stories around the campfire or make it up as you go along. We love listening all the same.
Hike on out to this Florida Gem from 3 different direction to suit your hiking needs and experience.
- From the West trailhead- Hidden Pond Short is a simple and straight forward trail. Head East for just under 2 miles to the FT and turn South to camp. Total about 2.5 miles.
- From the North trailhead- Starting at Pat's Island on the Florida Trail, head South thru some beautiful rolling hills to the pond. Total about 3.5 miles.
- From the South trailhead- Hiking North from Juniper Springs starts with a fee to park your car. Check out Juniper Prairie as you hike to Hidden Pond and you also get a fun little creek crossing at Whiskey Creek. Sometimes it's up and flowing fast, sometimes it's shallow. Total about 5.5 miles.
Get your hike on and pick a trail to come in. You can hike out any of the other trails if you choose and maybe get a ride back to your car. Some of us will shuttle you from Hidden Pond Short.
This is a primitive site and you should plan accordingly. It's the rugged Florida backwoods and we love it that way. Ask any questions and we will be happy to guide you on the right path.
Let us know of your intent and what trail you pick and the time in case someone else would like to hike in with a partner.
Hanger- Trailhead- Date(s)- ETA at trailhead
1) Floridahanger, Hidden Pond Short, Fri-Sun, 9am-ish
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