What we’re about
***
Purpose of the Group:
The purpose of this group is to bring people together for relaxed, enjoyable hikes — mostly on Saturday mornings — designed for those of us who work Monday through Friday. Hikes will be relatively easy and within about an hour’s drive of Tampa.
Some events will focus on photography, exploring scenic locations at a comfortable pace with plenty of time to take pictures. Others will be more about the hike itself, for those looking to stretch their legs and enjoy nature.
Most hikes will be hosted on Saturdays, but we’re excited to welcome Dominick as a event organizer. He may occasionally plan events during the week, offering more flexibility and variety.
Who should attend:
Anyone who enjoys hiking and/or photography. This group welcomes hobbyists and nature lovers alike — you don’t need to be a professional photographer (and if you are, we just ask for patience with us amateurs!).
What we’ll do at our events:
Hike, take pictures, and enjoy each other’s company outdoors.
Upcoming events (4)
See all- Boyd Hill Nature Preserve (Lake Maggiore)Boyd Hill Nature Preserve, Saint Petersburg, FL
Where: Boyd Hill Nature Preserve / Lake Maggiore Environmental Education Center
1101 Country Club Way S, St. Petersburg, FL 33705
(Meet at the Education Center entrance)
Cost: $3 adults, $1.50 youth (3–16). Pay inside the Education Center before we start.
To maximize exploration, we’ll weave together several trails:- Start on the Main Trail and head into the Center Loop
- Connect to the Saylor Trail and walk down to the Campfire Loop
- Return by taking the Fern Trail back into the Saylor Trail
- Follow the Canal Trail to the Uplands Trail
- Finish back at the Education Center
This route strings together a variety of ecosystems — lakeside views, shady forest, fern-filled lowlands, and upland scrub — for a total of about 3 miles at a relaxed pace.
Please feel free to bring a guest. If they will ride with you there is no need to add them to the RSVP.
https://www.alltrails.com/parks/us/florida/boyd-hill-nature-preserve
https://www.stpeteparksrec.org/parks___facilities/boyd_hill.php - Lake Rogers Park TrailLake Rogers Conservation Park, Odessa, FL
# Morning Hike — Lake Rogers Conservation Park
Date/Time: Saturday, October 18, 9:00 AM
Address: 9010 N Mobley Rd, Odessa, FL 33556
Entry: $2 per vehicle (pay at kiosk; card/cash accepted)Plan:
We’ll hike the Lakeside + Outer Loop (~3.0 miles, ~70–80 min). This combines the scenic shoreline trail with an extra loop through shaded oak and pine sections. Trails are flat, with some sandy/rooty spots but very beginner-friendly. Expect lake views, open fields, and chances for wildlife spotting.
https://hcfl.gov/locations/lake-rogers-conservation-park
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/florida/lake-rogers-park-trailMeet Here: Main entrance kiosk/trailhead. Step-off at 9:05 AM.
Bring:
- Water & bug spray
- Hat/sun protection (parts of the loop are open)
- $2 for entry
- Comfortable shoes
- 2025 - 2026 10th annual Hiking Spree kickoff hosted by Hillsborough County!Lettuce Lake Park, Tampa, FL
The Hiking Spree Kick Off will be on November 1st, 2025!
https://hcfl.gov/events/2025-2026-hiking-spree-kickoff/2025/11/01/blt7c109b885a5b6579This was a fun event that my oldest son and I attended in 2023 and it's a good way to meet other people and groups interested in hiking. I will be scheduling hikes to complete the Hiking Spree in this group.
### Things to know
- There is a $2 park entrance fee (for up to 8 people) - cash only
- Parking is limited - carpool with friends
- Participants should meet at the open field near the playground.
- Weather-related cancellation is possible
- Participants under 18 should be accompanied by an adult
- The trail is around 1.25 miles
- No alcohol will be permitted on park property
### Event highlights
- Guided hikes through Lettuce Lake's beautiful trails
- Nature talks from local experts and park rangers
- Outdoor clubs and environmental groups sharing expertise and volunteer opportunities
- Nature-based crafts for kids and families
- Food trucks offering tasty bites and drinks
- Exclusive merch and spree materials to make sure you're ready for your hikes
Bring your friends, your family, and your love of the outdoors to this celebration a decade in the making!
### What is the Hiking Spree?
The Hiking Spree is a program hosted in collaboration between Hillsborough County's Conservation and Environmental Lands Management and Parks and Recreation departments. Hikers will have five months to complete eight hiking trails on this year's "Hiking Spree Trial List" in order to earn exclusive rewards.
For more information, check out HCFL.gov/HikingSpree.### Things to bring
- Binoculars
- Bug spray
- Camera
- Closed-toe shoes
- Hat
- Lawn chair
- Snacks
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Water in refillable container
***
11/1/2025, 9:00 AM EDT
Lettuce Lake Park, Kickoff party will be held on the open field near the playground. Staff, volunteers, and signs will be able to direct you. - Hole in the Fence Hike – Morris Bridge Trailhead Gator Bait, Indian, & Main LoopHole in the Fence Trailhead, Thonotosassa, FL
Hole in the Fence Hike – Morris Bridge Trailhead - Black Friday
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/florida/gator-bait-indian-and-main-loop
https://hcfl.gov/locations/morris-bridge-conservation-park
📍 Location: 12629 Morris Bridge Rd, Thonotosassa, FL 33592 (Look for the sign)
🕘 Meet at: 9:00 AM
🥾 Distance: Approx. 3–4 miles (loop or out-and-back, depending on group preference)
🌿 Difficulty: Easy to moderate
💵 Fee: $2. Friday, November 28th, for a morning hike at the “Hole in the Fence” trailhead—one of the area’s best-kept secrets! This beautiful trail system winds through shaded forest, sandy stretches, and scenic wetlands. It’s a peaceful spot to get moving and reset before the weekend.Parking Info:
There is a designated parking lot at 12629 Morris Bridge Rd. A $2.00 day-use fee is required by Hillsborough County and can be paid by cash or card at the kiosk.
We’ll meet near the kiosk at 9:00 AM and head out shortly after. Please bring water, sun protection, bug spray, and sturdy shoes for sandy and uneven terrain.
This hike will be a steady-paced walk with time to enjoy the surroundings and regroup as needed.
