A Beginner Hiker, The Florida Trail, and Why I Share It All

Hello World!

I start my Florida Trail hike after the annual kickoff event and I’ll be honest with you. I am a complete beginner.

This will be my first hike.

I don’t have years of long distance experience under my belt. I’m not a seasoned warrior chasing a Triple Crown and I don’t have a long resume of famous trails. What I do have is this urge to challenge myself that I can’t ignore and the desire to document my journey as honestly as possible.

This combination of things is what led to the Florida Trail and being here on The Trek.

Starting as a beginner

For a long time, this idea of ​​what a hiker is kept me in a constant «trying to prepare» mode. Over time, I realized that I could keep waiting until I was “ready” or maybe the preparation would be faster if I actually did it.

I know I’m going to make mistakes on this hike. I know I will misjudge miles, second-guess many of my decisions, and have tough days. I also know that those mistakes will be my best teachers and prepare me for the future.

Why the Florida Trail as a first?

When people imagine hiking, I think they tend to imagine mountain peaks, overlooks, and canyons with land showing. The Florida Trail is not that.

It is muddy, flat, wet, flooded and full of potentially dangerous wildlife. Navigation can be tricky and mental fatigue can quietly build up.

As someone new to hiking, this seemed like the perfect place to start. I wanted a path that would teach me how to handle discomfort and uncertainty.

Why do I blog about my trip?

I chose to share this hike publicly because I know I’m not the only one drawn to hiking, but I might doubt that you are experienced enough to try it.

It won’t be a highlight reel, that’s for sure. I’m interested in documenting the learning curve I will have, all the ups and downs and lessons along the way.

What to expect in the future

Throughout my trek, I will share regular updates here on The Trek.

I expect wet feet, mental fatigue, and times when it seems easier to quit than to continue. I also hope to feel satisfaction after completing small goals along the way.

Right now, I’m sitting on edge and finishing up my final preparations before arriving at the Oasis Visitor Center to take on Big Cypress.

This hike is not about becoming an expert. It’s about seeing what happens when a beginner has a deep desire to do something great.

-Tyler

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