FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 1, 2012
FLORIDA CELEBRATES NATIONAL TRAILS DAY®
~Florida offers more than 8,000 miles of trails for all to enjoy~
 The Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway is home to a variety of recreational trails. (Photo by John Moran.)
TALLAHASSEE - The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) invites Florida’s residents and visitors to celebrate National Trails Day® on Saturday, June 2, at events taking place at parks and trails across the state.
“We encourage Florida residents and visitors to participate in National Trails Day® at one of our award-winning state parks or trails,” said DEP Florida Park Service Director Donald Forgione. “It’s a great time to discover the many healthy, affordable and fun recreational experiences to be enjoyed on more than 8,000 miles of trails throughout the state.”
Sponsored by the American Hiking Society, National Trails Day® celebrates the hard work and support of volunteers, land agencies, businesses and community organizations that further the development of the nation’s trails. As the inaugural recipient of American Trails’ Best Trails State award in 2008, Florida achieved national recognition for its vision, initiative and management of trails in coordination with partners throughout the state.
“Florida continues to serve as a model for the nation in its commitment to developing a statewide trail and greenway network,” said Jim Wood, Chief of DEP’s Office of Greenways & Trails. “Not only do trails and green spaces benefit the health and quality of life for Floridians, but they help spur the development of small businesses and play an increasingly valuable role in the state’s nature-based tourism economy.”
From activities such as paddling and pedaling along the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail near Islamorada to guided walks along the beautiful trails at Washington Oaks Gardens State Park at Palm Coast, there are many ways to explore Florida’s state trails and parks and celebrate National Trails Day®.
Celebrations include:
June 2, 9 a.m.
National Trails Day® Pedal and Paddle Event
Upper Matecumbe Key, MM 81
Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail
Key Largo, Florida 33037
(305) 853-3571; (305) 360-0846
Participants should bring their own bikes and helmets and/or kayaks and life jackets. For bike or kayak rentals, contact local outfitters. All participants should come prepared with sun protection and water bottles (refills will be available).
June 2, 10 a.m.
Celebrate National Trails Day® At Washington Oaks
Washington Oaks Gardens State Park
6400 N. Oceanshore Boulevard
Palm Coast, Florida 32137
(386) 446-6780
The program is free with regular park entrance fee of $2 per person on bicycle, $4 per vehicle for single occupancy or $5 per vehicle, up to eight people.
June 2, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
National Trails Day® Family Festival
Jonathan Dickinson State Park
16450 S.E. Federal Highway
Hobe Sound, Florida 33455
(772) 546-2771
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