Since our New Year’s Day hike was such a success, we followed it up with a Hogmanay Hike at Flat Island Preserve. Led by by Tracy Hauserman and Marc Crail of the Lake County Water Authority on a day that was gray and dreary, we had an otherwise ideal morning for hiking — low humidity, a breeze in the open areas, and perfect temperature. Our group numbered 17 including Tracy and Marc. They did a great job wrangling us, and Steve and I had fun talking with different members of the group and realizing what a diverse group we were.
Continue reading “Hogmanay Hike at Flat Island Preserve”Sawgrass Island Preserve
Another of the Lake County Water Authority preserves, Sawgrass Island is not far away but feels remote. Steve and I recently hiked the North Loop Trail and enjoyed a pleasant hour or so on a mostly shaded trail through an upland forest of mostly slash pine with some oaks for variety.
Continue reading “Sawgrass Island Preserve”Sabal Bluff Preserve
Sabal Bluff Preserve is a nice surprise, tucked in between two communities of manufactured homes and with a lovely trail along Lake Griffin. A property of the Lake County Water Authority, the 55-acre preserve is located at 2582 Lakeside Dr, Leesburg, FL 34788-8260.
Continue reading “Sabal Bluff Preserve”Blackwater Creek to Lake Norris
This morning we set out to paddle on Blackwater Creek. Our friend Judy and I had bought a pair of kayaks that we were dying to try, and Steve always loves visiting Blackwater, so the three of us headed east to Lake Norris Conservation Area.
Continue reading “Blackwater Creek to Lake Norris”Another Firefly Event – Lake Norris
In the interest of seeing as much magic as possible, Steve and I went on a hike with the Highlander Chapter of Florida Trail Association on a recent Saturday night. Every year, the Highlanders assemble and hike through Lake Norris to the primitive campsite, share a splendid potluck dinner, and then hike back in the dark and enjoy a firefly display. Continue reading “Another Firefly Event – Lake Norris”