When was the last time you disconnected yourself for a little while?
When was the last time you turned off the screen and absorbed your surroundings instead of what was in your hand?
Have you ever wanted to experience nature without the weight of social media in your pocket?
You may think, “Where could I even go to do that in the bustling city of St. Petersburg? I live in the mountainless underbelly of the United States that is Florida.”
Well, my friend, behold the beautiful forests and peaceful rivers that you can visit – right in your backyard.
Not many people know, but Florida has a lively backpacking scene with hiking opportunities just a few hours away in almost any direction. With so many choices available, you’ll always have somewhere new to explore.
Both the Myakka River and Little Manatee River State Park make the perfect setting for day, even overnight, backpacking trips if you’re looking for somewhere close.
Further up north we have the Withlacoochee area of the Florida trail, as well as the Ocala National Forest, but you might need a bear bag for that one.
“Backpacking” typically involves a two, or more, day hike where everything you need to survive fits in your backpack.
This includes all the water and food you’ll eat, hiking gear, as well as things like toilet paper and first aid kits.
Though this may sound daunting, you don’t need to get into it all at once.
A lot of people start out with day hikes just to see how they’ll enjoy the experience, and then start collecting backpacking gear little by little.
This is not a cheap hobby by any means, however.
You’ll need a backpack suited to carry anywhere between 30 to 50 pounds comfortably.
You’ll also need a sleeping bag, and headlamp to navigate in the dark. But these are just a few of the necessities, and you do have options.
While some people prefer to sleep in a tent, portable hammocks work just as well and usually cost less.
If you decide to go that route, purchase a rainfly, which is a tarp that protects your hammock from the elements and helps keep you dry.
You’ll also need a solid pair of shoes. All-terrain running shoes usually work, and hiking boots will do the job since you want something sturdier than regular sneakers.
Once you get out there, don’t expect to be roasting marshmallows around a fire every night. You will need to pack a stove and a few cooking supplies to ensure you have the energy for the long trek ahead.
Simple meals like oatmeal, instant potatoes and packaged corn are both lightweight and filling.
Although Florida is the mountainless underbelly, extensive hikes will take a toll on the body – they’re not cake-walks by any means.
These excursions involve walking uphill on various terrains while carrying about 40 pounds of gear on your back.
But that doesn’t mean it won’t be fun.
Going with friends will make the experience twice as unforgettable, at the least, and can help split up the gear.
For more information on backpacking routes and day trips, visit floridahikes.com — the website offers trail information, directions and a ton of other useful tips.
Happy Camping!
