Activity Reviews - Sep ‘06 thru Aug ’07

Activity reviews written by Chapter members for the 2006 - 2007 activities season starting September 1, 2006.  (Click on the thumbnail photos to see the big picture)

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Prairie/Shell Creek - Jul 8

Seven adventurous kayakers and one canoeist Chris, Barbara, Jim, Roger, Len, John, Steve (our newest member) and myself put into the creek for an 8 mile paddle out and back under a clear sky that later turned to a cloudy gray and then some rain showers which helped to cool the day off.  It was a great paddle from start to finish.  A stop for lunch also let several of us cool off by getting wet.  Follow up trips to these creeks are on our agenda.  Submitted by Frank

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Webb Lake Bike - Jun 16

This 10 mile bike ride took us down a winding road along the shore of Webb Lake and back to our starting point.  We stopped for lunch and energizers and decided whether to continue up toward gun range. Several of us did but turned around as sun was a bit too much for comfort.  We will do that ride later in the year.  There were 12 bikers who signed on.  Michael, Sheila, Annette, Brandon, John, Elaine (who is working toward an activity leader) who assisted me.  We had several guests who also biked with us.  John, Angela, Stephen, Don and Laura who both write columns for News Press.  A wonderful day and great group.  Submitted by Frank

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Webb Lake Paddle - Jun 9

Another beautiful day in paradise brought eight of us out to Webb Lake for a 9 mile paddle.  Jim, Barbara, Annette, Roger, John, Nadine, Sheila and I set out for a paddle down river.  We stopped for a lunch break and paddled back against a strong wind blowing up. That made us wanting to paddle at a faster pace to get back to our launch.  A most enjoyable trip, and it was mentioned that this trip be repeated again.  That will go on to the calendar.  Submitted by Frank.  Photos by Jerry

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Sanibel Bike Ride - May 30

Five members met at Tangier Mall on Summerlin and head out for a 9 mile bike ride thru Ding Darling.  Our trip took us thru the refuge, out onto Periwinkle and a return back to our starting point. This trip was co-led by Elaine who is working on being an activity leader.  It was a hot sunny day but weather didn’t deter us.  We later met for lunch at Lighthouse Restaurant, great lunch, great chit chat and great fellowship.  Those attending were Carol, Cathy, Gary and our leader Frank.  (Nadine was to have joined us but somehow ended up on Ft. Myers beach.)  Submitted by Frank. Photos by Carol

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Shell Creek - May 19

We began this paddle on a beautiful sunny morning with a slight breeze in the air, enough to help to push us along the way and have the wind cooling us as we completed an 8 mile paddle.  We stopped for lunch, rested and stretched our legs and headed back to the takeout. There were 12 of us, 9 members and 3 guests. Our group comprised of Mary, Chris, Jim, Tom, Charissa, Annette, Susan, Zessel and me. Having paddled the upper part of this beautiful creek, we hope to next paddle the lower portion in the near future.  As to wildlife, there wasn’t much to be sighted, a few gators and turtles.  A wonderful Saturday out on the water. Submitted by Frank

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Telegraph Creek - April 22

A beautiful Sunday morning for a paddle. Barbara, Jim, Mary, Terry and I left the Franklin Locks, paddled across the river and up into the Creek.  Weather was sunny, river was smooth and the creek with its tree overhang was most inviting.  We paddled past the cows, zebras, and llamas that occupy the farm land on the right.

I was in the lead and came to a sudden stop.  On the bank about 15 ft ahead lay the biggest gator I have even seen on this creek in all the years I have paddled it. Had to be about 12 ft.  We sat for a few minutes, it disappeared into the water.  How —— what do we do?  Slowly we treaded water, he kicked up a few times but we were over him.

We continued on to our takeout spot, had lunch, and were back into our boats for our trip back. When we entered the river again, calm had turned to a chop.  Jet skis and Sunday commodores were out in force.  Aside from that, we had a great day.  submitted by Frank

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Six Mile Cypress - April 19

On Thursday April 19th our group set out to explore some Lee County 20/20 property in south Fort Myers. After a very nice walk we came to beautiful wetland with a great blue heron, little blue, tri-colored heron and four swallow-tailed kites which were flying overhead. The group spotted many other birds on this hike including catbirds, glossy ibises, red-shouldered hawks and great-crested flycatchers. It was a very rewarding hike. submitted by Annette

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Myakka River State Park - Apr 14 & 15

On a beautiful Saturday morning, eight hikers set out from Foxes Low Rd. at Myakka River State Park for a backpack trip. On Friday afternoon, Mickey and Annette had cached water at Mossy Hammock campsite and also at the only tree on the prairie for the backpackers.

We set out at 10:30 am and reached Mossy just in time for lunch and a water refill. Then we proceeded to cross our 2 mile section of prairie. It was very warm but a nice wind was blowing. Our tree with water was a welcome to sight to Bob, who was looking forward to a shady spot to rest. We all relaxed and drank our fill of water then headed on to camp.

After one more nice break in the woods we had just one mile to go before reaching Bee Island, our home for the evening. This beautiful campsite was our private retreat for the night. Everyone found their perfect spot and set up their homes. Charles and Mary cooked up a wonderful gourmet meal of peppers, mushrooms, tomatoes, salmon and pasta while our mouths watered. After our supper Ian passed out cookies and Bob had peanuts for all. Jokes and stories were told around the campfire before bed. At 8:30

Sunday morning, after breakfast and coffee the group headed out on the park service road. Due to some thunderstorms moving into the area we decided it was best to take this shorter trail out to our cars. With only about 1/2 mile to go a light rain began. All made it safely back to our cars before the downpour.

This is such a great park! Annette and Chris had a hard time leaving and explored areas of the park until early afternoon. It was a fun filled weekend-enjoyed by everyone. submitted by Annette

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CREW Wildflower Walk - Mar 31

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Hickey’s Creek - Mar 25

Our trip to Hickey’s Creek began at 10AM and we were faced with a 10 mile an hour northeaster which put a chop into the Caloosahatchee.  It was a beautiful sunny day to off-set the wind in our face. We paddled up river about a mile and half and came face to face with a camel and a llama, who came over to waters edge so we could get a good look at them (they were real). After we turned into Hickey’s Creek, the water was calm and made for the paddle we were looking for.  We stopped at canoe launch, took out, had lunch and headed back. Boat traffic on river was very heavy and we caught some big ones coming out of locks. Plenty of wakes, but no one was skunked.  Everyone enjoyed the day, great friendship. Lead by Frank, with my crew of Annette, John, Shelia, Chris, Cathy, Karen, Donn and Barbara.  Submitted by Frank.  Photos 1 & 2 by Donn.  Photo 3 by John.

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Naples Botanical Garden - Mar 23

Photos by Eileen

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FTA Annual Conference - Mar 16 to 18

Photos by Betty

Ambling to Umatilla - Mar 16 to Mar 18

Eleven Chapter members ambled up to Umatilla on March 16 for the three days long FTA State Conference. Participating from the Amblers were Chuck, Betty, JoAnn, Frank, Mickey, Annette, David, Jackie, Beth, Gilbert & Michael. We also picked up and took in some trail orphans at our table from other chapters as well (Hey to Pam, Paula & Kent).

Special thanks to JoAnn for spending her Saturday working the Kid’s tent.

There was also a photo contest, raffle, silent auction & live auction. There were several exhibitor’s to visit and obtain good information, as well as our own Orange Blaze Mercantile where you could stock up on trail maps, books, shirts and assorted badges, patches and medallions.

Some of the speakers were quite notable.

Johnny Malloy is an outdoor writer based in east Tennessee. He has walked the Florida Trail (FT) South to North and has published over 29 books and sold over 100,000 copies. He is very knowledgeable about all things outdoors, especially as it relates to hiking and kayaking in the Southeastern United States. Don’t ever suggest to him that he should not drink the water.

Mike DeWitt is a reporter for the Tampa Bay Tribune and is hiking the FT from North to South (or backwards in some people’s minds). There is some grumbling that he may just set the record for the slowest transit. This does not seem to bother Mike a bit. In his mind the FT is a two way foot path built for the purpose of seeing the real Florida. He is a very colorful personality and he is enjoying his hike for the sake of enjoyment itself and his message is clear. Experience the trail!!! (Then go home)

Two of our members closed out their terms as state officers at the conference. Chuck Wilson retired from his position as Vice President - Membership, and Beth Kelso as State Secretary. The Alligator Amblers thank these dedicated individuals for representing our chapter at the highest level.

Sunday’s closing ceremony was very moving, but that was not the end of the conference. There were trail hikes and paddling opportunities available afterwards.

Old friendships were renewed, and new friends were found. Lots of good information was offered and fresh ideas were discussed. I would highly recommend you attend next year’s event.  Submitted by Michael

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Monthly Meeting - Mar 15

Photos by Morrie

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Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center - Mar 14

On a beautiful cool Wednesday morning our group set out to explore the varied habitats of CHEC. We were fortunate to be led by volunteer Chet who was very knowledgeable about local flora and fauna. We spotted many coral bean plants in bloom and our state wildflower Coreopsis was also in bloom. While hiking 2 juvenile eagles were flying overhead. The day turned out to be just perfect and new friendships were formed.Many thanks to Chet and CHEC! submitted by Annette

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Caloosahatchee Regional Park - Feb 17

On a cool Saturday morning a large group of hikers of all ages set out on the hiking trails at Caloosahatchee Regional Park. We were lucky to have Mike Hammond lead us and point out various plants and trees along the way. We stopped at the viewing platform to look out at the river on this beautiful day then headed along the river trail. Next stop was the fishing pier where we became familiar with different fish in our waters, both native and exotic. Now on to the Palmetto Trail through pine upland and oak hammocks. A great time was had by all and many thanks the Mike for making this an extra special trip. Submitted by Annette

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Panther Preserver/Fakahatchee Strand - Feb 14

A group of 12 met at The Panther Preserve on Wed. morning for a 1 1/3 loop hike of the park. Thanks to Roger we learned about the many wildflowers that were in the area. Jean pointed out a juvenile eagle, kestrel, black and turkey vultures and many other birds. We then drove to Fakahatchee Preserve and enjoyed a lovely 4 mile round trip hike to a secluded cabin on one of the tram roads. We spotted hawks, ibis, great blue herons, great egrets, a frolicking otter and possibly panther tracks in the mud. An alligator was having an afternoon sun on the trail or maybe he was just there for a great photo op! At the cabin we counted 20+ alligators in a pond and enjoyed a pair of gators having an afternoon siesta. A wonderful day was had by all. submitted by Annette

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Lakes Park GeoCache - Jan 24

Four Amblers set out on a geo-caching adventure at Lakes Park. After Brandon gave Frank a few lessons on how to use a GPS the group set out for the first find. Locating this one was a little tough at first but we got lucky. Stan was enjoying the wonderful gardens while Frank scouted for the cache. Success for the group. The next cache site took us on a lovely walk with the train making an appearance a few times. This one took a little longer for us to find since it was hidden inside a cluster of large rocks. We signed the log book, took a prize and left something for future cachers. We enjoyed the park and saw many birds. Submitted by Annette

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South Regional Conference - Jan 12 - 14

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Amblers Monthly Meeting - Jan 18

Our new meeting room and facilities at the Bass Pro Shop worked out wonderfully, as you can see by the pictures we’ve attached. We had an attendance of 52 people and a very good guest speaker, Betsy Clayton, who spoke about paddling trails in Lee County and the Great Calusa Blueway. Regina, with the help of many behind the scenes helpers, conducted a great meeting…….we will miss her leadership and hope to find another dedicated AA Member as Chapter Chair soon.

Several upcoming activities were discussed. We applauded Michael Owens for the wonderful job he has done on our web site. Mickey Miller spoke about the Activity Leaders Meeting Sunday, February 11 and good wishes were said about Pat Hastings who is recovering back home in Canada. We miss you Pat! Submitted by Morrie

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Dear Alligator Amblers,Thank you very much for graciously hosting me at your January meeting. It was fun to talk about the Great Calusa Blueway and paddlesports in Southwest Florida. You were a great group.

Thank you, too, for the gift certificate to Bass Pro. I will put it to good use and get something that I can share with paddlers, such as an item I can use during the Calusa Blueway Festival Oct. 27-Nov. 4.

Below is my contact info. Should you have any questions you’ve thought of since I spoke, please give a shout to bclayton@leegov.com. If you have any ideas for boating columns for me, my column address is boatingbybetsy@yahoo.com.

In the meantime, take care and please know I appreciate your enthusiasm for paddling and hiking in the great outdoors.

Sincerely,

Betsy Clayton

• Waterways Coordinator
• Lee County Parks & Recreation
• 6490 South Pointe Blvd.
• Fort Myers, FL 33919
• Phone: 239-433-3855
• Cell: 239-826-4606
• Fax: 239-432-2030
• Email: bclayton@leegov.com
• Web: http://www.leeparks.org/
• Blueway: www.greatcalusablueway.com

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Manatee Park/Hickey’s Creek Mitigation Park - Jan 10

After heading out early on a cool morning we walked down to the water at Manatee Park searching for manatees. At the end of the small pier going out to the Orange River we spotted the familiar nostrils coming up for air. The gulf waters were still warm and even with the cool temps. we were only able to spot one manatee. We enjoyed the park and then headed over to Hickey’s Creek for a longer hike. Not wanting to do all 5 miles the group decided on a nice hike along the creek. The day warmed up nicely and after the hike Annette and Barbara headed back to Manatee Park for a very nice paddle on the Orange River. We saw many birds, turtles and one large alligator! Another wonderful, wild Wednesday! submitted by Annette

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Estero Scrub Preserve - Jan7

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Lover’s Key - Jan 5

On a beautiful Friday morning nine of us enjoyed a 3 mile walk on the Black Island Trail at Lovers Key State Park. Along the trail we spotted vines of Nickerbean and identified many trees and plants. We also spotted zebra longwing and gulf frittilary butterflies. After a short lunch break Linda, Dick and Elaine rented kayaks while Annette and Frank drove to the launch site with their boats. After paddling for awhile the winds picked up and Frank and Dick headed back to leave the ladies on their own. We enjoyed a nice paddle before returning to the launch site. Elaine and Annette stayed to walk on the beach. A wonderful time was had by all. Submitted by Annette

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Wild Wednesday - Dec 13

At 10am on a beautiful partly cloudy day, six Amblers took off on a leisurely bike around Lakes Park. Around each corner we encountered many birds, including Great Egrets, Great Blue Herons, Anhingas, Osprey, an immature Bald Eagle and even Woods Storks resting in the grass. Gayle took us on a side trail, telling us about a new gopher tortoise area and giving us lots of information on the birds. We biked around the park a few times, then enjoyed our lunch and snacks. Once more around the path to burn some more calories and we were on our way home. We had a great day with future plans for a kayak/canoe/bike trip in the planning for next year. Annette

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Fort DeSoto Park - Dec 2, 3, 4 & 5

Eight friends renewed old friendships or made new friends! The location was Fort DeSoto Park in St. Petersburg. We had 3 campsites. On Saturday we met and bike around the various areas of the park visiting the Fort from the Spanish-American War of 1898 and toured the interesting Museum. We celebrated Dr. Bob’s 82nd birthday with strawberry shortcake and carrot cake. On Sunday we paddled to Shell Key and walked the beach where we were joined by a flotilla of various coloured kayaks and their paddlers. After enjoying lunch and a rest at the main picnic area on the beach we paddled back. Some took a nap.

On Monday we drove to Seminole Park and biked on the Pinellas Trail and through several parks and points of interest including Heritage Village and the Botanical Gardens. We enjoyed a campfire each evening and a pie iron supper on Monday.

Tuesday we packed up and headed home (although I believe Annette and Brandon were looking for another place to launch that ‘new orange kayak’). “Paddle ‘a bit’” !!!!!!

• Submitted by Pat
• Photos by Annette

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Caloosahatchee Regional Park - Nov 26, 27 & 28

Sunday, Monday and Tuesday, November 26, 27 and 28, 2006 - five participants accompanied Pat at a Camp/Hike/Paddle trip in Caloosahatchee Regional Park near Alva in Lee County. The group enjoyed perfect weather for the trip. They hiked the north trails in the morning on Sunday and the south trails in the afternoon spotting many interesting plants and insects along the way.

On Monday 3 of the group paddled to Hickey’s Creek Mitigation Park spotting 2 limpkins, an alligator, some manatee, lots of turtles and beautiful asters and butterflies. The foliage on the trees along the shoreline were very brilliant in their fall colours as we paddled along.

On Tuesday a different 3 of the group paddled east to Alva slipping in and out the various creeks and oxbow along the way. The return trip was windy but we made it!

Great campfires and discussions took place in the evenings! An owl entertained us during the night and we had frequent visits from a stray cat. Spare time was spent biking the north trails by one member of the group! Submitted by Pat

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Sanibel Bike Ride - Nov 21

Five Alligator Ambler members and 8 guests enjoyed a wonderful 12-mile bike ride on Sanibel Island on Tuesday, November 21, 2006. It was a cold morning, 42 degrees, as we loaded up our bikes and drove to the island but the sun came out and it turned out to be a perfect day for biking.

We headed to the lighthouse first and took pictures and walked on the beach. Our next stops were the tiny cemetery in Gulf Side City Park and Tarpon Bay before reaching our restaurant for lunch. The staff was all set up for us and we had a delicious meal.

We encountered some headwinds and welcomed a rest to watch the birds and monkeys at the campground on the island. We reached our cars in early afternoon and departed having made some new friends and sharing some stories and ideas! Submitted by Pat

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Myakka State Park - Sun, Nov 19

On Sun. Nov. 19, Mickey and Annette set out from Foxes Low Rd. at the backcountry parking area at Myakka State Park for an overnight backpacking trip. The weather was fantastic, blue skies and nice temps. The trail was in great shape except for the wild hog damage. We hiked about 10 miles through prairie, oak hammocks and pine trees to Oak Grove campsite.

We had a nice warming fire while enjoying our hot chocolate and tea. It was a beautiful evening with owls calling in the distance. The morning was a little chilly so we sat by the fire for a few hours before packing up and heading for the car.

Thanks to the wonderful map provided by Friends of Myakka we were able to explore different sections of the park on the way back. Mickey was also lucky enough to pick up a few little tidbits on the trail for her collection. submitted by Annette

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Highlands Hammock - Nov 10 thru Nov 12

We arrived at different times to the campground on Friday night. Michael with his camper, Annette with her backpack tent and Kelly and Sheila sharing the Taj Mah Hall tent. Lucky for Kelly that Michael was there to help with set up.

We all enjoyed a nice dinner and lively conversation around the campfire on Friday night. We roasted marshmallows and Kelly was dreaming of smores with peanut butter! We all had a good night sleep, even Michael who was surrounded by a boisterous church group.

We met John and Gloria at the CCC Museum at 10am for a museum tour and then hiking. We hiked the “Big Oak trail” home to a 1000 y.o. oak tree. Also the “Hickory and Fern Garden trails”. Finishing on the Ancient Hammock Trail at about 12:30 we were all ready for lunch.

After a little rest some of us headed out on bikes while one of us took a power nap and a couple went on another short trail in the campground. After the bikers got back it was time for John and Gloria to head home and the rest of us to start our evening fire and have dinner.

After dinner Michael surprised us all with smores fixings which made Kelly very happy. Our camp was also visited by a raccoon and a cute little armadillo. Off to bed for a good nights sleep after all that activity! Sunday morning was time to pack up and head home-feeling very renewed and refreshed! A great time was had by all! Annette

PS - Three Amblers, Sheila, Kelly and Michael were left behind Sunday morning and were determined to walk a bit further after breakfast. They managed to squeeze in the Allen Altvater, Young Hammock and Wild Orange trails before breaking camp and heading home. Towards the end of Yound Hammock, there were a pair of Catbirds discussing current events. It was agreed that this was a most pleasant and relaxing trip. Submitted by Michael

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November Monthly Amblers Meeting - Nov 9

Photos of Mike Hammond and friends. Submitted by Annette

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Springfellow Bike Trip - Wed Nov 8

Our bike trip on Springfellow Road, on Pine island started after a sprinkle of rain which was forcast for the day. this trip was an 8 miler to St. James City. Our group consisted of Cathy D, Pat H, Annette C and her 2 boys,two guests, Linn and Bob and our fearless leader, Frank G.

We had sunshine going out, stopped for a hardy lunch (WOW - look at the amount of food on your plate) was mentioned by all and the ?? - is it a real or fake croc? - Ask Annette about that .

Our return was a different story. Fifteen mile an hr. winds out of the north east. I dont think we were petaling more than 3 miles an hr. Back at our cars, that was the topic of conversation. Anyway, a great trip, enjoyed by all. submitted by Frank

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Snook Haven - Sat Oct 21

We had 6 members who braved the distance to get there, and it turned out to be a beautiful day and a beautful trip. JoAnn teamed up with Marge, Kelly and Ken in kayaks(Ken by the way skimmed past, said hello and off he went with his fishing poles-didn’t see him for rest of day) and Cathy and me. Water was calm, sun was hot so we cut it short to 5 miles. I kept reminding everyone to drink your water as I always do.

After we returned, the big highlight of our trip was the 2-1/2 hrs we spent enjoying cold beer and cold ice tea, a great lunch and a whole lot of jib a jab. Hoping to plan this trip again in Jan or Feb. - Frank